Produce industry headlines: March 31, 2026

Good afternoon! It’s Tuesday, March 31, 2026, the last day of March. Here’s what’s happening in produce and grocery today.

Links today include new Trader Joe’s stores, SpartanNash upgrades, a plastic in produce survey, an op-ed from the ag secretary, crop updates on Valencia oranges and pears, and more.

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

Top Stories

Trader Joe’s unveils plans for 8 more stores

A spokesperson for the retailer said it plans to open more than 20 stores in 2026.

U.S. survey finds 81% of produce sold with plastic packaging

Of more than 1,000 product lines surveyed, 81% were sold with plastic packaging, while an additional 6% were sold loose but included a plastic sticker. Only 12% of product lines were fully plastic-free.

SpartanNash zips along with store renovations

The grocer has made improvements to many supermarkets following its acquisition last year by C&S Wholesale Grocers.

Opinion: American greatness depends on our great American farmers

U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins emphasizes the essential role that American farmers, ranchers, and rural communities play in powering the nation.

Pear Market Firms as Bartlett Season Wraps

The pear market is beginning to tighten as varietal availability shifts from Bartletts to Anjous.

California projects 17 million tons of Valencia oranges for the 2025-26 season

CDFA projects 17 million tons of Valencia oranges for the 2025-26 season from California, which is 16 percent above last season’s production.

Unilever to combine food business with McCormick in $45B deal

Unilever reports it reached an agreement to combine most of its food business with spice maker McCormick.