Produce industry headlines: July 14, 2026

Good afternoon! It’s Tuesday, July 14, 2026, Bastille Day. Here’s what’s happening in produce and grocery today.

Read about a new retail brand tracker study, Raley’s latest executive hires, antitrust experts on the Kroger-Giant Eagle deal, an ag economist on high grower costs, an interview with Frutura’s CEO, financial pressure on Northwest pear growers, and more.

As always, have something to share? Send us your feedback at news@bluebookservices.com.

Top Stories

Brand Study: Walmart Still Tops, But Aldi, Kroger Gaining Traction

According to new data this week from the Conjointly Brand Tracker, Walmart maintains the top position across every major brand-tracking metric this spring.

Raley’s Reveals Another Round of Key Leadership Changes

As part of the leadership changes, the retailer has named a new chief marketing officer, SVP, enterprise operations, and SVP, sales and merchandising strategy.

Will the Kroger-Giant Eagle deal face regulatory challenges?

Antitrust experts predict less scrutiny from the Federal Trade Commission than the failed Kroger-Albertson’s merger.

A closer look at the high costs affecting today’s growers

Michael Swanson, chief agricultural economist at Wells Fargo’s Agri-Food Institute, analyzes the issue affecting growers and shippers nationwide.

Frutura moves to crop-specialist model to fuel next phase of growth

Frutura CEO David Krause explains the company’s strategy to focus on in-demand crop categories.

Financial pressure mounts for Oregon and Washington pear growers

Growers say they face a financial crisis that could push many out of the industry with a combination of low retail prices, rising input costs, and a pest outbreak.