Produce industry headlines: March 9, 2026

Good afternoon! It’s Monday, March 9, 2026, and daylight saving time for most of the country. Here’s what’s going on in fresh produce today.

Read links to retail store closures in February, Costco’s digital success, snacking’s rise in foodservice, a plant-based pioneer distances itself from the category, a melon leader retires, pears struggle in California, and more.

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

Top Stories

Walmart closes stores in February

Last month, Walmart closed three stores, but Family Dollar closed 100 as it works through its new strategy.

Costco ties digital personalization to $470M in sales growth

During an earnings call last week, Costco executives said investment in online personalization has a significant effect on e-commerce sales.

With prices up, restaurant consumers turn to snacking

According to Technomic, while overall traffic is down, snacking occasions in restaurants are up by nearly 7 percent.

Beyond drops ‘Meat’ from name as it broadens ambitions for plant-based proteins

As the plant-based category struggles, a pioneer in the space is distancing itself with a name change.

Yes! Apples Borrows from the CPG Playbook to Spark Category Growth

The brand’s marketers looked at the CPG world for its strategy in the snacking, beverage, and other center store categories.

Legend Produce co-founder Pat Tucker announces retirement

The melon company’s cofounder is stepping away from day-to-day operations after 27 years of leadership.

In the past two years, California lost 800 acres of pears

Changing market conditions, such as a rise in competing imports, have put pressure on the California pear industry.