Produce industry headlines: March 11, 2026

Good afternoon! It’s Wednesday, March 11, 2026. Here’s what’s going on in fresh produce today.

Click these links to read about Aldi’s DC upgrade, Ocado’s post-Kroger plans, JOH acquires a Midwest brokerage, a produce marketing legend’s retirement, chaos in California peaches, and more.

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

Top Stories

Aldi starts over $35M distribution center upgrade in Florida

The discount retailer has begun construction on a major upgrade of a distribution center in Florida, according to multiple reports.

Ocado turns to store-based e-commerce fulfillment as it looks beyond Kroger

With its exclusive agreement with Kroger in the past, the technology firm is talking with U.S. retailers about its new scaled-down automated system.

JOH acquires The Fresh Connection

JOH expands its produce coverage in the upper Midwest through the acquisition of produce broker The Fresh Connection.

‘Ms. Mango’ reflects on 35-year produce career as she prepares for retirement

Cindy Swanberg Schwing, VP of marketing/retail sales for Splendid by Porvenir, will step away from the business on March 20 following a career of produce marketing, international agriculture, connection to farming.

With Del Monte Foods gone, California peach farmers consider orchard removal amid industry turmoil

The Del Monte Foods bankruptcy from last July and the closure of two canning plants has led to significant surplus peach volumes.

Reduced acreage likely for 2026 Idaho potato crop

Some growers say this season’s surplus of potatoes will lead to an acreage cut as planting soon gets underway.

‘Some fruit supply chains may no longer be viable’

A shipping expert says the Middle East conflict will affect the international fruit trade.