Good afternoon! It’s Tuesday, June 23, 2026. Here’s what’s happening in produce and grocery today.
Read about Kroger’s pricing plans, the restaurant business’ bifurcation, event updates on CPMA and FPFC, a cherry crop update, South Korea’s expanding access to U.S. potatoes, and more.
As always, have something to share? Send us your feedback at news@bluebookservices.com.
Top Stories
How Kroger is leaning on pricing and stores to reset its value proposition
Kroger CEO Greg Foran says the retailer needs to sharpen its relationship with customers to remain competitive.
Consumers are either trading down for discounts or trading up for experiences
A report finds that restaurants in the middle that have less clear positioning are losing share.
CPMA 2027 Trade Show is 80 Percent Sold Out
The annual event is scheduled for April 13-15, 2027, at the Vancouver Convention Center, featuring more than 700 booths.
FPFC opens sponsor, exhibitor slots for 2026 Holiday Showcase
The Fresh Produce and Floral Council’s 2026 Produce and Floral Holiday Showcase is set for August 26-27 at the Westin South Coast Plaza in Costa Mesa, CA.
Early, and slightly smaller Northwest cherry crop for 2026
Growers say demand is strong and competitive at the start of summer, which works well for a smaller crop.
South Korea expands market access for U.S. potatoes
The Asian nation expands market access for U.S. fresh potatoes by approving imports from 11 additional states under the U.S.-Korea Free Trade Agreement.
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What to read next
Produce industry headlines: July 30, 2026
Read about the pushback against retail dynamic pricing, Americans avoiding lettuce over outbreak concerns, Sprouts Q2 2026 report, and more.
Grocery foodservice growth slows
In 2025, supermarket and club store chains registered $31 billion in prepared foodservice sales, nearly 5 percent more than 2024.
Frieda’s finishes Angelcot season early
With the 2026 season already in the rearview mirror, Frieda’s Branded Produce recommends planning now for next year’s crop.
California heat wave affecting quality of several crops
A prolonged heat event is expected to impact the Salinas and Santa Maria Valleys this week, with temperatures climbing in inland crop areas.
USDA launches initiative to recruit veterans
The USDA initiative recruits veterans, transitioning service members, and military spouses into careers that protect America’s food supply.
Produce industry headlines: July 29, 2026
Links today include Trader Joe's loyalty strategy, a group prepares to sue over New York's grocery plan, summer fruit boom on menus, and more.
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