TUCSON, AZ - Community and communication were the resounding messages bouncing around in my head as I reflected on the three-day-long getaway to a desert mountain outside Tucson, Arizona, for the third annual SWIPE, hosted by the Fresh Produce Association of the Americas (FPAA). 

From an increase in booths to a new timeframe that aligns with exhibiting seasonality, there is much to celebrate for the 2026 event. In addition to a healthy spike in firstime buy-side attendees and record-breaking numbers overall, this year had the distinct feeling that SWIPE is finding its voice and hitting its stride.

More than 800 attendees, with over 70 buyer participants, set to the backdrop of the JW Marriott Tucson Starr Pass Resort & Spa, made for an intimate setting to connect, cut loose, and still get some work done. 

Early arrivals made their way to the Club at Starr Pass for the SWIPE Desert Golf Classic Tournament co-hosted by FPAA and the Fresh Produce and Floral Council (FPFC). A signature annual feature of SWIPE, buyers and attendees came together for a day of friendly connection and friendlier competition, the way only produce pros can.

No swing? No problem. The Produce Par-TEE, which started soon after tee-off, ensured no golf handicap was required to join fellow SWIPE attendees for a putting challenge and networking event where, I was told, heckling was highly encouraged. Among the camaraderie, Colin Ager, Business Manager for H-E-B, took the stage to treat guests to his guitar skills—a moment talked about past the ribbon-cutting the next day.

“SWIPE is a great show for its intimate size and setting—a great backdrop to play guitar for some friends after golf. Sometimes you can get a little more done, or have some deeper conversations, at the smaller shows with more space in the day,” Colin told me of the experience. 

Ceremony and celebration continued late into the evening with the Southwest Social Produce Party, kicking off the first evening of the event during the association’s celebration of the Southwest in the ballroom of the gorgeous JW Marriott. Live music and an excited crowd made for a promising start to the expo’s official agenda.

“From our sold-out golf tournament to our record-breaking attendance, the SWIPE 2026 show was a success for all who participated,” Lance Jungmeyer, President of FPAA, stated. “Several panels of produce retail and wholesale buyers shared candidly the realities of our supply chain challenges, bringing nuance and detail to the conversations that took place this week. Whether it is the impact of tariffs or the strange weather we are seeing, it is crucial for buyers and sellers to be having this dialogue and navigating it together.”

The next morning kicked off with a networking breakfast, featuring FPAA Board Member Greeters and the opportunity to further get to know our hosts and fellow guests before the education and exhibits to come. Then, celebratory tones turned contemplative as education panels began to tap the wisdom of several industry experts for challenges and opportunities for our industry.

Black Swan Event: Preparing for the Unpredictable, featuring Rob Billow of Charlie's Produce, Kevin Carter of Associated Wholesale Grocers, Noelle Neary of Wakefern, and Kristi Novak of H-E-B, reflected on what happens when the supply chain encounters a “black swan” scenario—an unpredicted and unprecedented event that has severe impacts. Moderated by SunFed's Matt Mandel, the room was packed regardless of it being the earliest and first of several sessions ahead of the trade show floor. 

Kristi Novak shared further insights with the industry by sitting in on back-to-back panels as she took the stage once more, alongside Save Mart's Jim Curtis, Charlie's Produce's Steve Kuboyama, and Indianapolis Fruit's Tony Mitchell, for AI in Grocery: Easing Shrink and Other Common Challenges.

Remaining top of mind, the group discussed navigating the opportunities of integrating AI technologies and where this can be the strongest tool.

"The next space that we're going to see is leveraging that store signal to drive more accurate forecasting in the warehouse," Jim shared with the room, reflecting on building the foundation of AI resources in the store in order to establish the opportunities in the warehouse. "So if you get the store order and forecast, that foundation, that's probably where you will see the fastest, most visible returns right away, is getting the store piece right. The DC (distribution center) piece, in my mind, is the multiplier—that's where the transformation really begins. And that funnels all the way through the supply chain."

Amid lunch, Looking to the Future with U.S. Importers of Mexican Produce dove into the dynamics, relationships, and what is on the horizon for cross-border partnerships, a topic cracked open wider by the final panel of the afternoon. Representing cross-country and cross-industry expertise, the final expert panel navigated what has been a crucial import/export topic: duties and tariffs. 

This session discussed how retail, wholesale, and foodservice are navigating the impacts, with CPMA's Ron Lemaire moderating Markon's Andy Hamilton, H-E-B's Colin Ager, Charlie's Produce's P.J. Crawley, and Albertsons' Bryan Preseley. 

Weathering supply chain turbulences while maintaining store environments catered to keeping loyal shoppers, each industry vet discussed how these aspects have affected their operations and what they’re doing to mitigate the challenges for operations and, ultimately, shoppers.

Brimming with topics to connect on amid the show floor, it was time for the FPAA Board to cut the ribbon and welcome attendees to the third annual SWIPE—a bustling floor of 75-plus booths and Speaker’s Corner Panels taking place silent-disco-style during the second half. Amid browsing the rows, show-goers had the chance to take a moment to hear from innovative companies in the fresh produce industry as they shared their ideas into microphones feeding into provided headsets so as to be clear among the energetic atmosphere. 

The time and agenda kept a smooth pace, with the wrap-up of the expo flowing right into the JW's ballroom and the SWIPE After Dark Party. While many, aware of weather challenges in Texas and across the East, had to make last-minute changes for earlier departures, a strong surge made it out to visit with new and familiar colleagues once more, reflecting on shining moments of the Tucson event. 

“I think it shines through that SWIPE is a really fun and productive event, and we are proud to share that SWIPE participation continues to grow,” shared FPAA Executive Vice President Allison Moore. “Our planning committee members and Board of Directors set their sights on a goal, and through their dedicated volunteer time, we exceeded our own expectations, attracting exhibitors and attendees from across borders to celebrate the vibrancy of the produce industry.”

Those who stayed back one more day also had the opportunity to join one of three fun activities—whether they were swinging away on Saturday. Pickleball Paddle Battle Tournament, bussing out to the Border Dash Tour
for an exclusive warehouse experience in Nogales, or getting a few shots in with the Tucson Trap and Skeet Club—one of the most exclusive sports shooting facilities in the U.S.—there was truly something for everyone to put an adventurous bow on top of their SWIPE experience. 

It is safe to say, with the next dates already slated for 1/14-1/16 in 2027 back at the beautiful JW, that this new timing was a resounding success. Here is to a bright and exciting horizon! 

CHICAGO, IL - Circana LLC released insights from its Future of Produce report, forecasting steady but nuanced growth for the fresh produce industry through 2026. The new research projects dollar sales to rise approximately 2% year over year, while volume growth is expected to remain modest. This outlook underscores the continued influence of inflationary pricing and shifting category dynamics on consumer purchasing habits.

The Future of Produce report utilizes Circana’s proprietary forecasting methodology, which uniquely integrates macroeconomic indicators, point-of-sale data and deep consumer insights. This data-driven approach provides a comprehensive view of demand, moving beyond traditional supply-based forecasting to help growers, shippers, brands and retailers identify specific opportunities for growth in a complex marketplace. The Future of Produce includes three-year sales, volume and pricing forecasts plus detailed consumer survey responses in a dynamic online tool for total fresh fruits, fresh vegetables and more than 30 individual commodities.

While the forecast predicts overall stability, performance will vary significantly across the department. Fresh fruit is expected to outpace the department average, driven by strong consumer demand for snacking options and newer tropical varieties. Conversely, fresh vegetables face a more challenging landscape, highlighting a critical need for innovation in consumer-friendly formats, marketing investment to keep pace with consumer packaged goods for share of stomach and ongoing value positioning to reinvigorate sales.

“Despite so many positive tailwinds around U.S. consumers’ interest in natural, fresh and healthier eating patterns, the fresh produce industry sales forecast is modest and pound volume surprisingly flat through 2026,” said Jonna Parker, vice president, Fresh Foods, Circana, in the recent release. “As the category evolves, brands that innovate around convenience, health and affordability will lead the next wave of growth. The slow erosion of the volume growth rate over the next three years feels like missed potential, pointing to what could happen if fresh fruits and vegetables continue on their current trajectory of focusing on just providing ample supply without deeply understanding today’s consumers.”

To capitalize on these insights, the report outlines several strategic imperatives for industry leaders. Parker emphasizes the necessity of elevating value messaging to justify spend among price-sensitive shoppers and investing in convenience through meal solutions and pre-cut options. Additionally, leveraging health and sustainability attributes remains vital, as does embracing digital engagement to reach younger consumers where they shop and seek inspiration. Without focused investments in driving demand, the industry risks modest results in an environment ripe for innovation.

MISSION, TX - The Texas International Produce Association (TIPA) proudly hosted the 2026 Texas Produce Hall of Fame on Monday evening at the Mission Events Center in Mission, Texas. The event welcomed nearly 300 industry members, partners, and guests for an evening honoring the past, present, and future of the Texas produce industry.

Held biennially, the Texas Produce Hall of Fame recognizes individuals whose leadership, service, and vision have left a lasting mark on Texas agriculture and the broader produce community.

“The Texas Produce Hall of Fame is one of the most meaningful events we host,” said Dante Galeazzi, President & CEO of TIPA, in the recent release. “It gives us the opportunity to honor the pioneers who built this industry, recognize today’s leaders, and invest in the next generation who will carry it forward.”

2026 Texas Produce Hall of Fame Inductees

TIPA congratulates the following leaders inducted into the Texas Produce Hall of Fame:

• Steve Cargil, Cargil Farms Produce
• Marvin Davis^†, Tex-Mex Sales
• James Peterson^†, Starr Produce
• Tommy Wilkins, Horton Fruit Co.

Each inductee was honored for their enduring contributions to the produce industry and their influence on Texas agriculture and the communities it supports.

“These inductees represent the values that define our industry—hard work, integrity, innovation, and service,” Galeazzi said. “Their legacies continue to shape Texas produce today.”

Additional Industry Awards

TIPA also recognized excellence and emerging leadership across the industry with the following awards:

Scott Toothaker Award

• Craig Fox^†, Fox Packaging

Rising Star Awards

• Will Beckwith, Beckwith Produce
• Jose Bernal, Sweet Seasons
• Kristen Davis, Tex-Mex Sales
• Johnny Garcia, The Veg Depot

“It’s equally important that we celebrate those who are building the future of our industry,” Galeazzi added. “These award recipients exemplify leadership, dedication, and promise.”

Scholarship Recipients Recognized

As part of TIPA’s commitment to education and workforce development, scholarships were awarded to:

• Mariela Elizondo
• Jonah Henderson
• Sadie Smith
• Macey Thomas
• Bryson Whitlow

“Supporting students through scholarships ensures that our industry remains strong for generations to come,” Galeazzi said. “These students represent the future of Texas agriculture.”

An Evening of Reflection and Celebration

In addition to the awards program, attendees participated in a silent auction benefiting TexPAC initiatives and enjoyed browsing photo albums featuring past Texas Produce Hall of Fame inductees, offering a nostalgic look at the leaders who have shaped the industry over decades.

“Seeing the history of our Hall of Fame displayed alongside today’s honorees was a powerful reminder of how far this industry has come,” Galeazzi said. “It’s an honor to celebrate that legacy together.”

Attendees and industry members are invited to relive the evening through a collection of event photos captured during the celebration and inductee tribute videos. The full gallery can be viewed online by clicking here.

MUNICH, GERMANY - IFCO, a leading global provider of reusable packaging solutions for fresh foods, announced its 2030 ESG Goals, building on a record year of environmental savings achieved together with customers in 2025. These savings demonstrate that each year, IFCO’s circular business model delivers increasing, measurable environmental benefits – reinforcing that the company’s ambitious 2030 goals are grounded in proven progress.

In 2025 alone, by replacing single-use packaging with reusable solutions, IFCO customers avoided and reduced over 803 million kilograms of CO₂e, alongside substantial savings in water, energy, material use, and food waste.

These results highlight a clear trajectory of growing impact and form the foundation for IFCO’s newly announced 2030 ESG Strategy, Thriving with Purpose, which aims to help customers save and avoid 1 megaton of carbon emissions per year by 2030, while accelerating progress in water stewardship, circular materials, and food waste reduction.

“At IFCO, sustainability progress is something we measure, verify, and deliver year after year together with our customers,” said Mike Pooley, CEO of IFCO, in the recent release. “Our record 2025 results show that circularity at scale works. The 2030 ESG Goals build on this momentum, setting ambitious but achievable targets that are fully embedded in how we operate and grow our business globally.”

Environmental savings achieved with customers in 2025

IFCO’s 2025 Sustainability Certificates provide customers with verified data on the environmental savings achieved by replacing single-use packaging with IFCO’s SmartCycle™ pooling system. Using life cycle assessments aligned with ISO 14040 and ISO 14044 and reviewed by independent third parties, the certificates quantify verified savings compared with conventional single-use corrugated packaging.

Global 2025 savings include:

• 803,500 tons of CO₂e, equivalent to driving around the planet 157,700 times by car
• 56,7 million m³ of water, equivalent to 22,700 Olympic-size swimming pools
• 16,6 million GJ of energy, equivalent to the annual energy consumption of 798,500 households
• 1,44 million tons of solid waste, equivalent to the yearly solid waste of 2.9 million people
• 74,450 tons of produce waste, equivalent to 118.9 million meals saved

IFCO’s 2030 ESG Goals

IFCO’s 2030 ESG goals outline a measurable roadmap to scale the impact of its circular business model, structured around three pillars: business, planet, and society.

Key goals include:

• Helping customers avoid 1 megaton of carbon emissions per year by 2030, supported by transparent methodologies that quantify customer-level climate benefits.
• Delivering near-term Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) targets by 2031 and working toward a validated net-zero SBTi target by 2030.
• Achieving 100% renewable electricity across key service center partners and key reusable packaging manufacturers by 2030.
• Maintaining zero waste to landfill every year, with all IFCO products upcycled into new reusable products at end of life, alongside innovation to reduce reliance on virgin plastics.
• Partnering with food banks globally to support the delivery of 500,000 tonnes of food by 2030, strengthening food security while reducing waste.

These new targets build on strong progress already achieved under IFCO’s previous ESG strategy 2025, including a 37% reduction in carbon emissions per crate, a 10% reduction in water use per crate, and the transition to 100% renewable electricity across IFCO’s own operations.

Delivery of the 2030 ESG Strategy will be underpinned by rigorous governance, with ESG performance managed alongside financial performance. The strategy is informed by CSRD requirements, insights from IFCO’s Double Materiality Assessment, and international standards such as ISO, while remaining inspired by the B Corp framework.

“Our IFCO Thriving with Purpose strategy reflects a broader vision of sustainability. While circularity remains central, our new focus highlights creating shared value for people, communities, and the planet – embedding purpose into everything we do”, said Iñigo Canalejo, Vice President ESG and Strategic Marketing at IFCO.

FOWLER, CA - Bee Sweet Citrus’ winter line is diverse and suited for upcoming retail promotions. Many of their available varieties complement events such as the Super Bowl, Valentine’s Day, and the Lunar New Year.

“2026 has just begun, and customers are already preparing their homes for major celebrations,” stated Bee Sweet Citrus Director of Communications, Monique Mueller, in the recent release. “From lemons to pummelos, our winter citrus line provides the perfect ingredients for game day recipes and can help families honor holiday traditions.”

Currently, Bee Sweet Citrus offers household staples like Navel oranges, mandarins, lemons, and grapefruit. The company’s winter citrus line also features specialty citrus varieties, including Cara Cara oranges, Royal Red oranges, Meyer lemons, pummelos, Minneola Tangelos, and Golden Gem grapefruit. Apart from grapefruit being harvested out of California’s desert region, all varieties are currently being sourced from the Central Valley, ensuring outstanding fruit quality.

“After battling wet weather and foggy, overcast days, we now have a good window to harvest all varieties,” stated Bee Sweet Citrus Director of Harvesting and Grower Relations, Randy Stucky. “Morning temperatures have been in the low to mid-30s, allowing fruit to color up nicely on the tree. Fruit size is also up across all varieties, and the eating quality is exceptional with outstanding Brix levels."

With seasonal holidays and major sporting events right around the corner, Bee Sweet’s winter line offers retailers an excellent opportunity to market the citrus category at the store level. Lemons are ideal for game-day dips and appetizers, while pummelos symbolize good luck and prosperity for families celebrating the Lunar New Year. The pink and reddish hues of Cara Caras and Royal Red oranges add a festive touch to Valentine’s Day meals and desserts.

All of Bee Sweet’s varieties are available in both bag and bulk items. To learn more about Bee Sweet’s winter citrus line, its availability, or available point-of-sale material, please call 559-834-4200 or visit www.beesweetcitrus.com.