As we move deeper into April, the spring transition is starting to take shape. This is the first full week of processors in Salinas, and with that comes the usual early-season challenges. Load times are a bit slower as crews get settled, and supply is still working to catch up as more acreage comes online.

We’re already seeing markets respond. Lettuce, Romaine, broccoli, Brussels sprouts and celery are all starting to inch higher as the desert winds down and the coast continues to ramp up.

The International Fresh Produce Association is hosting the Breeder Showcase at the Floral Conference, taking place May 19-20, 2026, in Miami. The showcase will serve as a centerpiece of the event, bringing together breeders, growers, suppliers and retail floral buyers to explore the latest floral varieties shaping the future of the category.

Instacart has acquired Instaleap, a global enablement and fulfillment solutions services platform that empowers retailers to streamline and scale their online operations. The acquisition supports Instacart’s strategy to expand its enterprise offerings globally and build the technologies that can power every single grocery transaction.

Side Delights announces a fast, fresh way to jump on the newest/oldest global potato trend with no cleaning or peeling required. Triple-washed and ready to microwave in its own wrapper, shelf-stable Side Delights Bakeables makes baked potato preparation even easier as consumers seek creative ways to transform America’s favorite side dish into the star of the table.

Taylor Farms has launched its new line of fresh snacks, salads and vegetable kits inspired by Illumination’s beloved Minions. As a leading global producer of salads and healthy fresh foods, this collaboration between Taylor Farms, Universal Products & Experiences and Illumination coincides with the riotous new chapter in Illumination’s joyful animated universe, Minions & Monsters, hitting theaters July 1. 

Wada Farms is entering spring with strong inventories, disciplined crop planning for 2026 and a team that focuses on execution.

“Our priorities remain the same: delivering dependable supply, excellent quality and service our customers can plan around,” said Eric Beck, director of marketing for the Idaho Falls, ID-based company. “That stability is what allows our retail and foodservice partners to move forward with confidence.”