Produce industry headlines: March 20, 2026

Good afternoon! It’s Thursday, March 20, 2026, the Spring Equinox. Here’s what’s going on in fresh produce today.

Links today include a produce affordability plan, regional retailer roundup, higher food and gas prices may suppress retail and restaurant demand, grower groups respond to Caesar Chavez allegations, and more.

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

Top Stories

A plan to promote produce’s hidden value

A Western Michigan University food marketing professor says retailers need to better promote how healthier food alternatives like fruits and vegetables can also be affordable.

The Friday Checkout: Regional grocers hustle to keep pace with national competitors

Smaller regional retailers broke news this week with tech innovations, mergers and acquisitions, and personnel moves.

Wholesale prices rise sharply in February, driven by food costs

Fresh and dry vegetable wholesale prices were up nearly half in February compared with the previous month, according to the government’s Producer Price Index.

Tax refunds can’t outpace gas prices, dampening optimism for restaurant operators

A study finds that from 2022 to 2026, a $1 increase in gas prices translates to six fewer customers at the drive-thru every day.

Salinas grower-shipper association weighs in on Cesar Chavez allegations

“Without full transparency regarding these allegations, the UFW risks further diminishing their credibility as a union and their ability to advocate on behalf of union members,” said Christopher Valadez, president and CEO of the Grower-Shipper Association of Central California.

U.S. lawmakers push tariffs on Mexican produce to support Florida growers

The Florida Fruit & Vegetable Association supports the proposal, saying the measures are needed to manage import volumes and protect domestic growers.