Instacart accelerates global expansion through acquisition
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.
Retailers can capture the baked potato comeback with Bakeables
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, Crunch Pak launch Minions-inspired line
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 looking to strengthen relationships at Viva Fresh
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.”
Why avocados are still winning the cart
Scroll through social media lately and you’ve probably seen it: “2026 is the new 2016.” A throwback mindset with a modern twist — simpler times, feel-good food and everyday indulgences that don’t break the bank.Back in 2016, avocados were at the center of that moment, a symbol of feel-good eating that balanced taste, nutrition and a little everyday indulgence. Fast forward to today and avocados have evolved from a cultural trend into a category powerhouse.
Dollar General introducing AI-powered in-store audio network
Dollar General plans to roll out an enhanced, AI-enabled in-store audio network across approximately 6,000 stores in 48 states. Through a new partnership with QSIC, Dollar General will deliver more relevant, localized and measurable audio experiences to customers while providing brand partners with accountable, data-driven advertising across one of the nation’s most expansive retail footprints.
Driscoll’s names Ambassador Darci Vetter as VP of public affairs
Ambassador Darci Vetter has joined Driscoll’s as vice president of public affairs. Based in the Washington, DC, area, Vetter will report to CEO Soren Bjorn and join the office of the CEO, supporting enterprise-wide alignment on governmental affairs across Driscoll’s global regions.
Fertilizer now too expensive for vast majority of growers
An overwhelming majority of America’s farmers who responded to a nationwide survey say they cannot afford to purchase enough fertilizer to get them through the year, according to American Farm Bureau Federation, which conducted the survey and published results today.More than 5,700 farmers, from all 50 states and Puerto Rico — both Farm Bureau members and non-members — took the survey. Conducted April 3-11, the survey shows 70 percent of respondents say fertilizer is so expensive that they will not be able to buy all the fertilizer they need.
Continental Fresh brings purpose-driven mangos to Viva Fresh 2026
This April marks the seventh season of Continental Fresh’s Water For All branded mango program, a milestone that reflects the company’s long-standing commitment to pairing high-quality produce with meaningful impact. Inspired by the vision of CEO Albert Perez, the corporate social responsibility initiative donates a percentage of proceeds from every branded box of mango sold to support clean water projects in Latin America, communities that are often closely connected to the agricultural supply chain that makes the program possible.
Ventura Fresh launches Chico Brand backed by legacy, purpose and growth
For Ventura Fresh Produce LLC, the goal is not simply to sell product, it is to build a brand rooted in legacy, values and long-term relationships.Launched in early 2026, Ventura Fresh Produce LLC was founded by partners Javier Torres, Salvador Macías and Rob Ybarra, each bringing deep, generational ties to the produce industry. Together, they have aligned around a shared philosophy that guides every aspect of the business.