54 January | February 2026 abasto.com FOOD INDUSTRY Abasto Media gathered insights from top industry voices to dissect the critical trends shaping the Hispanic market BY VIOLETA MONTES DE OCA T he retail and produce industries are poised for significant change. Abas- to Media interviewed key industry voices about their vision for the next 12 months, analyzing the major forces that will redefine the marketplace and how the Hispanic market can prepare. Will tariffs remain a dominant talking point? Will AI become a standard operational tool across the supply chain? And what regulatory changes will demand immediate attention? According to the Acosta Groups Consumer Predictions for 2026, success hinges on foundational trust: Brands and retailers must commit to transparency and authentic engagement to strengthen consumer loyalty in this ever-changing marketplace. Here is what the key industry voices had to say about the year ahead. KEY INDUSTRY LEADERS SHARE THEIR VISION WHATS NEXT? DANTE GALEAZZI PRESIDENT & CEO TEXAS INTERNATIONAL PRODUCE ASSOCIATION One of the biggest trends will be the indus- trys ongoing work to manage regulatory volatility and trade policy shifts, an issue that defined 2025 and continues into the year ahead. Companies are adapting by building more resilient logistics strate- gies, implementing faster compliance sys- tems, and strengthening communication with buyers who are navigating the same uncertainty. We also anticipate a renewed focus on climate resilience and water availability, issues that increasingly influence production decisions in both the U.S. and Mexico. The continued cultural and economic influence of Hispanic consumers remains a defining force. Their strong preference for fresh, flavorful, and culturally rooted