Produce industry headlines: July 2, 2026

Good afternoon! It’s Thursday, July 2, 2026, happy Independence Day weekend! Here’s what’s happening in produce and grocery today.

Links today include several from retail analysts on the Kroger-Giant Eagle deal, plus consumer sentiment rising, weekend interview with Ed Bertaud, crop updates on vegetables, lettuce, berries, and more.

Kroger announced July 1 that it will acquire Giant Eagle, a family-owned grocer with about $9 billion in annual sales and 197 supermarkets. Read the details of the deal here.

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

Top Stories

Pardon the Disruption: Is Kroger’s acquisition of Giant Eagle worth the trouble?

A retail analyst says the benefits of Kroger buying the regional grocer aren’t particularly compelling.

Dissecting the Kroger-Giant Eagle Deal

Read what retail observers have identified as the motives behind this week’s acquisition.

Kroger deal with Giant Eagle met with gusto

Industry experts weigh in on the deal to acquire Giant Eagle for $1.65 billion, and most like it.

Consumer sentiment rises from record low on prospect of lower inflation

A price index shows consumer sentiment rose in June from a record low as hostilities cool in the Iran war, helping gas prices decline.

Weekend Interview: Ed Bertaud, IFCO & The Fresh CrEd

You’ve probably heard Ed Bertaud’s voice or seen his podcast, but he’s also transforming the supply chain, one reusable at a time.

Better outlook for Salinas vegetable growing season in 2026

Weather has been much better for growers this season than last, as crops are showing high quality and good supplies.

PRO*ACT Crop Update: Lettuce improves, tougher berries and potatoes

Strawberries continue their seasonal decline from Santa Maria but are going strong in Salinas and Watsonville, CA.