Produce industry headlines: June 18, 2026

Good afternoon! It’s Thursday, June 18, 2026. Here’s what’s happening in produce and grocery today.

Links include QSRs’ tough May, a first look at Aldi’s Manhattan store, Kroger’s Q1 report, rising labor costs threaten growers, crop updates on stone fruit, lettuce, and mangos, and more.

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

Top Stories

Fast-food traffic took a hit in May as higher gas prices settle in

Restaurants saw weak results last month, yet many are still winning the discretionary spending battle according to data from tracking firms.

1ST LOOK: Aldi Previews Midtown Manhattan Store

Aldi officials held a press tour of the 25,000-square-foot below-ground location on the ground floor of The Ellery, a residential tower on West 42nd Street. The store opens tomorrow.

Kroger sees modest growth in Q1

Kroger today reported higher sales in its first quarter as growth in digital operations and retail media helped offset pressure from rising costs.

Rising Labor Costs Are Pushing Specialty Crop Growers Out of Business

Increasingly, the H-2A guest worker visa program has become the only source for ag labor.

California stone fruit breaking records with early production

Due to favorable weather conditions, California’s stone fruit harvest is earlier this year.

PRO*ACT Crop Update: Hearts tight, melons light, lemons in sight

Lettuce varieties have all been under pressure for an extended stretch, with strong markets lasting longer than normal.

Significantly lower mango volume expected this summer

Growers say a cold spring reduced blooms, as production now shifts from southern Mexico to northern growing areas.