Good afternoon! It’s Thursday, October 22, 2026. Here’s what’s happening in produce and grocery today.
Read about Kroger’s new store formats, Amazon’s fresh grocery gains, food and beverage layoffs, Gen Z avocado demand, a lawsuit over Canadian tariffs, and the California grape season wrap-up.
As always, have something to share? Send us your feedback at news@bluebookservices.com.
Top Stories
Kroger unveils 3 refreshed store formats
Kroger executives say the updated designs offer more space for fresh products and e-commerce while paring back on areas like general merchandise.
According to Nielsen IQ data, sales of groceries such as seafood, dairy, and produce on Amazon increased severalfold from June to August.
Food and beverage layoffs accelerate
Industry layoffs accelerated in 2026 as food and beverage companies struggle to adapt to declining consumer spending and a shift in eating habits.
Why Gen Z avocado purchases are rising—even as novelty fades
Gen Z has increased avocado unit purchases by more than 14 percent year-on-year, outpacing other generations, according to Circana.
Food importer sues Trump administration over 50% tariffs on Canadian goods
U.S. food importer Geller Global Group, an importer of Canadian cheeses, is suing the White House, challenging the legality of the 50% tariffs on specific Canadian goods that were enacted in July.
California green table grapes expected to finish by Thanksgiving
Growers are focusing on finishing a smooth season as California table grapes head into the last six weeks of shipments.
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What to read next
Share-ify unveils S.A.F.E. Score for better risk intelligence
The new AI Forecasting Engine helps food safety professionals identify supplier risk faster, act earlier, and make quicker decisions.
ECIP leadership circle nearly doubles in 2 years as suppliers step forward
The Ethical Charter Implementation Program celebrated 51 fresh produce suppliers that met ECIP Leadership Circle criteria early this year.
Eco Farms names new president in leadership transition
Eco Farms is entering a new chapter of leadership, naming Jim Leach as its next president, effective November 16, 2026.
Exp. Group expands to Maryland with new facility
The new Jessup operation expands Exp. Group’s reach across the area and strengthens its ability to serve wholesale, retail, and foodservice.
Produce industry headlines: October 21, 2026
Read the latest on trucking fraud, driver health, hurricane damage, harvest labor concerns, Kroger’s growth, and produce fraud prevention.
Potandon CEO announces launch of ‘Sprout Cares’
Des Hague, Chief Executive Officer of Potandon Produce and RäFoods, announced the official launch of Sprout Cares.
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