Produce industry headlines: September 23, 2026

Good afternoon! It’s Wednesday, September 23, 2026, the first day of autumn. Here’s what’s happening in produce and grocery today.

Today read about NGA leader’s warning about independent grocers, Trader Joe’s vs. Aldi’s traffic strategies, two studies showing how consumers are altering their grocery deal shopping, Canada’s high-tech ag investment, and California ending stone fruit exports early.

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

Top Stories

NGA CEO warns America could be left with just ‘five or six national chains’

National Grocers Association President and CEO Greg Ferrara says pressure facing independent supermarkets, rising beef prices, and his concern that continued consolidation could leave consumers dependent on chains.

Consumers aren’t chasing deals; they’re building them, says NIQ

According to a NielsenIQ director, shoppers are combining strategies, such as switching to lower-priced brands, shopping more often at discount or value retailers, buying more private label, and stocking up when preferred items are on sale.

Trader Joe’s, Aldi have different ways to bring in traffic

According to a new report by Placer.ai, both retailers have gained foot traffic as others have seen losses, by taking opposing strategies.

Grocery Shoppers Now Spend Extra Hours Hunting for Savings: Report

New research from Iridio shows shoppers are spending their own time to keep grocery bills down.

Canada’s betting big on a high-tech ag future

“By supporting the right technology, we help safeguard the crops that support our communities and local economies,” said Canadian Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Heath MacDonald, in a statement.

California stone fruit exports ending for the season

Thanks to an earlier start to the season this year by nearly a month, the export season is finishing up more than a month ahead of historical timing.