Stepping Into the New Year with 2026 Industry Reflections; Mike Roberts, Rannel Santiago, Angela Hernandez, Harold Paivarinta, and Krista Beckstead Share

PRODUCE INDUSTRY - At the beginning of every year, a familiar set of challenges arrives: remembering to write 2026 on the page, easing into the pull of the next 12 months while carrying lessons from the last, and balancing a full calendar without letting the unknown feel too heavy. Fortunately, in this industry, we’re almost always getting ready to get ready.

These moments are often accompanied by warm calls from industry friends, emails resurfacing after the holiday rush, and tradeshows already appearing on the horizon. That shared sense of gratitude—rising alongside the challenges—is a gift, and one we know is felt throughout the year. We invite you to take a moment to reflect on the words of some of our industry friends as we continue stepping into 2026.

Harold Paivarinta, Vice President of Sales and Business Development, Red Sun Farms™

“2025 tested the food industry in new ways, making it a uniquely challenging year. Tectonic shifts in consumer spending, the rapid rise of GLP-1 usage, and the accelerating influence of social media have created dramatic and often unpredictable swings in demand. As we enter 2026, there is a shared desire for greater patience and a return to steadier rhythms as we collectively navigate toward a new normal. Yet, in doing so, it is essential that we do not abandon the core attributes that have long defined our industry – relationships built on trust, collaboration, innovation, and transparency. Looking ahead, my pledge is simple and unwavering: to remain poised, prepared, and fully engaged in supporting our retail partners through whatever challenges and opportunities lie ahead in 2026.”

Rannel Santiago, Director of Produce, Sysco

“As we enter 2026, my resolution is to raise the bar—prioritizing health, strengthening family connections, and embracing change and progress. By exploring new culinary traditions and innovative approaches, I aim to grow as a leader in the industry while continuing to deliver meaningful solutions for our customers. This year is about collaboration, progress, and honoring the stories behind every ingredient to create offerings that reflect care, creativity, and purpose.”

Mike Roberts, Vice President of Produce Operations, Harps Food Stores

“Grateful for another year in the produce industry—working alongside truly wonderful people, helping teach and inspire the next generation, and doing what matters most: feeding our communities fresh fruits and vegetables. Here’s to the work, the growth, and another awesome year ahead in produce and all it has to offer in 2026.”

Angela Hernandez, Vice President of Marketing, Trinity Fruit Company

“When I reflect on this New Year—how I closed out 2025 and stepped into 2026—the words that come to mind are intentional, airy, and peaceful. As 2025 came to an end, I was deliberate about cleaning every nook and cranny, purging what no longer needed to be there. I donated so many bags of things—things that perhaps someone else needed more than I did. In the process, I was reminded of the way a harvest is prepared. A farmer tends the field before the crop ever grows—removing what doesn’t belong, readying the land so it can best serve the season ahead. That is exactly what I did, and exactly how I wanted to begin this year: fresh, light, and at peace. May we all experience a fruitful season and live fully in the blessing that each breath gives us.”

Krista Beckstead, Director of Marketing, Mountain View Fruit Sales

"A new year means another chance to shine a little brighter than last year—to grow with intention, be thankful for the opportunities and partnerships in the past year, and look forward to new sparkly ones in the future. Cheers to a fresh year ahead filled with PEACHY moments that add sparkle to everyday life!"

Please stay tuned as we bring you more words from our industry friends and those who make the produce world go round. Happy New Year!