MCALLEN, TX - As 2026 begins, GR Fresh’s focus on consistent supply remains paramount. With that in mind, logistics, in-transit efficiencies, and cold-chain reliability are top of mind for the vertically integrated grower/packer/shipper, as well as the importance of deepening relationships in foodservice and retail. Tony Incaviglia, Vice President of Sales and Marketing, explains how the company is keeping these issues at the forefront throughout the new year.
“Building deeper, more cooperative retail and foodservice partnerships is a priority, with an emphasis on transparency, forecasting, and order fulfillment,” Tony Incaviglia, Vice President of Sales and Marketing, said. “Although there are cost pressures across labor and increases in production and operations, we’ve positioned ourselves for long-term stability by focusing on sustainability, food safety, and consistency.”
The company’s production footprint is intentionally varied for this reason, and offers a powerful commodity lineup of Roma, round, and grape tomatoes, avocados, cucumbers, green and color bell peppers, eggplant, zucchini, and yellow squash.
“No single region is expected to carry the full burden,” Tony explained. “Sonora provides early winter season volume, transition, and stability. Its quality is critical to bridging regional gaps.”
Sonora’s production also helps protect early open market and year-round retail and foodservice commitments.
“Sinaloa, on the other hand, is central to providing our highest production capacity for the winter season through May. Its broad coverage is a key region for key retail and foodservice programs, while enabling more disciplined forecasting for consistent supply fulfillment,” Tony added.
Both regions work together to reduce supply gaps by staggering start and end dates.
January is a transitional month, and Tony noted that some variability due to seasonal changes should be expected. There are some early-commodity starters, like bell peppers, cucumbers, and eggplant.
“Supply may fluctuate week to week due to weather, regional transitions, field maturity, and logistics timing, which can impact availability and lead times,” Tony said. “February is expected to be more active in comparison to January, with improved stability. While some inconsistency will occur, overall supply and quality will reach a better sense of rhythm and consistency as new fields mature. Customers should plan ahead, but fewer disruptions are anticipated as production levels normalize.”
Forecasting can be difficult during this time period, so Tony recommended planning orders far in advance.
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GR Fresh
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