PRODUCE INDUSTRY - We are nothing in this industry without each other. As the year continues to take shape, it becomes clear that progress rarely happens in isolation. It’s built through shared experiences, steady preparation, and the conversations that reconnect us after busy seasons and shifting priorities. The new year brings a renewed sense of togetherness that continues to guide our work. 

Between follow-up calls, familiar names returning to our inboxes, and events drawing closer on the calendar, there’s a quiet reassurance in how often we show up for one another. We invite you to spend a moment with reflections from a few more of our industry friends as we move forward together in 2026.

Karen White, Vice President of Marketing, Bolthouse Fresh Foods™

"I always love the sense of optimism that comes with a new year, even as each year seems to get busier for all of us. I see it less as a reset and more as a continuation of a longer journey. For me, every day brings small moments and chances to learn, stretch, and grow. Along the way, it is the people we connect with and show up for that matter most. Family, friends, colleagues, and communities. Sometimes that simply means calling or texting a friend while standing in the grocery store. Not losing sight of those moments, as life stays busy, is something I come back to again and again."

Tony Incaviglia, Vice President of Sales and Marketing, GR Fresh

“As the new year begins, I’m taking a moment to reflect on what this past year taught me—lessons that have made me more aware of my strengths and weaknesses. Become clearer about priorities and more focused, seeing through all the noise to accomplish specific goals. Continue to be much wiser for what challenged me, and there were plenty over the last year. Ultimately, step into this new year, take a deep breath with renewed focus, discipline, and purpose.”

Ryan Sanchez, Produce Sales Manager, Albertsons and Vons

“When I think of the new year, I think about all the wins and opportunities that I had in the previous year in my personal and professional life. As I look forward in the new year, it’s time for a clean slate, and I am excited about improving on my opportunities and doubling down on the wins. The new year is always a great time to challenge yourself on something you want to accomplish at some point during the next 12 months!”

Catherine Gironda, Produce Category Manager, MOM's Organic Market

“If there’s anything to be learned from 2025, it’s that life is too short. It’s time to throw caution to the wind. 2026 is the year to take big risks. Jump on new opportunities. Let confidence steer your ship. Have the courage to grow out of your comfort zone and keep setting the bar higher.”

Jeff Cady, Vice President of Produce & Floral, Northeast Shared Services (Tops Markets, Price Chopper, Market 32) 

"While 2025 is in the rearview mirror, as I look back, much was accomplished, and there was a lot to be proud of. Of course, not every goal that was set was achieved; most were, and we are truly in a better place today than we were at the beginning of 2025. As I enter my 41^st year in this industry, I am as excited and as driven as ever to drive produce sales and do my part to put the best quality product on the shelves as possible to push produce consumption to new heights in 2026."

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!