Produce industry headlines: March 5, 2026

Good afternoon! It’s Thursday, March 5, 2026. Here’s what’s going on in fresh produce today.

We have links to the new Kroger CEO’s plans, retail analysis on regional chains, organic produce trends, USDA grocery price projections, crop reports on bananas, apples, strawberries, and blueberries, and more.

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

Top Stories

New Kroger CEO wants to accelerate turnaround

Kroger CEO Greg Foran said during an earnings call that the retailer will make improving its store experience a top priority as it tries to boost its performance.

Retail Deep Dive: Regional Powerhouses

What makes a regional grocer stand out? Retail experts and suppliers weigh in on what’s most meaningful in-store and out.

Price is paramount for organic produce purchasing

Analysts say affordability is the key to greater organic produce sales.

Grocery prices are set to rise in 2026

According to the USDA, fresh vegetables will post an increase of 1.4%, and prices for fresh fruits will rise by a fraction of a percentage point, also below their historical average.

Ecuadorian banana exports increased by nearly 10 percent in January

According to ACORBANEC, the U.S. posted growth of 15 percent, which was helped by the removal of the 15 percent additional tariffs on the country’s banana imports in November 2025.

Washington apple exports to Asia rebound

This year, exports to Taiwan rose 19 percent, Hong Kong by 27 percent, Indonesia by 17 percent, and India by 14 percent.

Florida strawberries weathered recent freeze better than blueberries

Growers say strawberry supplies are recovering and should be normal in March, but blueberry volume will be down this season.

U.S. study links berries, apples and citrus to higher well-being

A 10-year analysis with more than 40,000 women finds that diets containing flavonoid-rich foods such as berries, apples, and citrus may be linked to happiness and optimism.