Produce industry headlines: September 14, 2026

Good afternoon! It’s Monday, September 14, 2026. Here’s what’s happening in produce and grocery today.

Links today include Harps’ new AI director, veteran returns to Grocery Outlet, Kroger’s private label growth, how GLP-1s will affect produce shipping, a Southern Innovations photo report, and onion growers’ transportation challenges.

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

Top Stories

Harps names first director of AI

The retailer appoints Will McDoniel to identify ways it can use technology and more quickly adopt AI capabilities.

Scot Olson Returns to Grocery Outlet as Vice President, Merchandising – Fresh

Olson returns to Grocery Outlet after spending the past eight years at FreshSource, most recently as president of the north-northwest divisions.

Kroger records strong private label growth as shoppers stay focused on savings

In addition to private label products, shoppers also showed interest in health-focused and organic products during the second quarter, said Kroger CEO Greg Foran.

The Cold Chain: Why GLP-1s are freight’s next big growth lane

Grocery data indicates these medications are driving increased consumption of fresh produce, creating a significant opportunity.

Southern Innovations takes center stage in Music City

See a photo report from the Southeast Produce Council’s Southern Innovations conference Sept. 9-12 in Nashville.

Trucking difficulties continue to challenge onion movement

Driver shortages and high fuel prices are among the difficulties growers face as they harvest crops across the U.S. and Canada.