CMI Orchards continues to lead the pear category with a disciplined, grower-first approach that delivers seamless seasonal transitions, consistent eating quality and year-round confidence for retail partners. Central to that strategy is a carefully managed import program that extends the Bartlett (William) pear season beyond the domestic window while keeping domestic growers and long-term category health at the forefront.

As the first major industry checkpoint of the year, Fruit Logistica provided a clear snapshot of the priorities shaping food and fresh produce processing in 2026. For FAM STUMABO, the exhibition was an opportunity to engage in strategic dialogue with processors across fresh-cut fruit and vegetables, foodservice and prepared foods, exploring its operational challenges and investment priorities for the year ahead. 

Instacart and 1-800-Flowers.com have announced a nationwide partnership that allows customers across the United States to order fresh flowers and gifts for on-demand delivery through the Instacart app, just in time for Valentine’s Day.

Upside has officially launched a full regional rollout with The Save Mart Cos. across nearly 200 stores in California and Nevada under the Save Mart, Lucky and FoodMaxx banners. This launch significantly expands its West Coast grocery footprint and demonstrates how regional grocers can compete with national chains.

The Texas International Fresh Produce Association announced that Hunter Pinke will serve as the 2026 keynote speaker at the Viva Fresh Expo, bringing a timely message of resilience, adaptability and perspective to the Tex-Mex produce community.

Family Tree Farms promoted Ryan Howard to North American sales director, effective Jan. 1.

Howard has been an integral part of the Family Tree Farms sales organization for over a decade, playing key roles in expanding customer partnerships, leading sales strategy and supporting both stone fruit and blueberry programs across the domestic market.

During his tenure, he has built strong relationships with retail partners and helped drive strategic growth in competitive produce categories through leadership and execution.