Produce industry headlines: May 26, 2026

Good afternoon! It’s Tuesday, May 26, 2026. Here’s what’s happening in produce and grocery today.

Links today include Lidl US’s new CEO, Walmart execs depart, a USDA disaster declaration in Pennsylvania, Florida’s freeze losses, crop updates on sweet potatoes and celery, and more.

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

Top Stories

Lidl US appoints new CEO

Alan Barry will be promoted from COO to CEO in July, succeeding Joel Rampoldt, who announced he was stepping down in January.

Walmart C-Suite Execs Exit

Walmart is losing two of its c-suite leaders, as Tom Ward, the COO of Sam’s Club, and Cedric Clark, Walmart’s EVP of U.S. store operations, leave the company.

Walmart steps in for McDonald’s, Dunkin’ deliveries

Walmart will combine some Spark restaurant orders with delivery orders of groceries and other merchandise.

Secretary Rollins Signs Disaster Declaration for Pennsylvania Counties

Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins signed a disaster designation for 17 counties in Pennsylvania due to damage and losses caused by below-freezing temperatures April 19-21, 2026.

Florida growers face US$3.1B in weather-related crop losses

Strawberries and blueberries recorded the largest losses, with losses estimated at 80 percent and 90 percent, respectively, while Florida citrus is estimated to have lost $674 million from the winter storms.

Strong demand and tight supply keep sweet potato prices strong

A tightening North Carolina sweet potato supply is leading to higher pricing, similar to this time last year.

Markets coming down on celery

Celery volume is rising as the Salinas, CA-area ramps up, and Midwest regional crops look to summer supplies.