Produce industry headlines: May 12, 2026

Good afternoon! It’s Tuesday, May 12, 2026. Here’s what’s happening in produce and grocery today.

Read about high gas prices affecting consumer spending, FMI on the latest CPI report, the evolution of credit reporting, problems in the pizza industry, crop updates on apples and pears, and more.

To read Blue Book reporting on the latest Consumer Price Index report, click here.

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

Top Stories

Consumer spending is healthy, but gas prices remain a risk

Industry analysts say higher-income shoppers have kept retail sales healthy, but the economic impact of the war in Iran remains unknown.

FMI Statement on April CPI Food Price Numbers

FMI says the food industry is doing everything it can to keep prices in check and support shoppers amid continued market uncertainties as they seek to get the most value out of their grocery dollar.

Collective Intelligence: The evolution of credit reporting

For as long as businesses have extended credit, they’ve searched for ways to better manage risk. Sharing data fits the bill.

Is Global Trade Volatility Putting the U.S. Fresh Produce Industry at Risk?

Sources say the market chaos caused in part by rising fuel costs and retaliatory tariffs can impact international share and lead to price drops at home.

The real problem with the pizza industry

Pizzerias have fallen from Americans’ favorite restaurant category to sixth place, and restaurant counts have been declining since 2019.

U.S. apple storage down four percent compared to May 2025

The total number of apples in storage on May 1, 2026 was 70 million bushels, 4% less than last May’s 72 million bushels and 9% more than the five-year average for that date.

Oregon pear growers face $45 million in 2025 losses

Pear growers in Oregon’s Hood River Valley estimate 2025 losses of $40-45 million due to oversupply and processing disruption.