60 January | February 2026 abasto.com BY RON MARGULIS A s readers of Abasto head into 2026, they are juggling slower spending growth, sharper price and labor pressures, and faster store digitalization all while Hispanic cuisine grows more po- pular than ever. The biggest stories will focus on how re- tailers protect price-sensitive households, modernize merchandising for an omni- channel system, and keep culturally au- thentic experiences alive despite a limited workforce. The Evolution of Tastes in 2026 Personalization and Labor Issues Will Redefine Supermarket Aisles Shifts in Demand and Products After several years of strong performance, spending on Hispanic groceries has leve- led off, even as major supermarkets conti- nue investing in the segment, according to market research firm Numerator. Hispanic households now account for roughly 15% of U.S. consumer spending, but an increasing share of that basket is shifting toward deep-discount and ware- house club channels, driving interest in supermarkets focused on Hispanic sho- ppers. Overall, the Hispanic food market is still expected to grow, fueled by wider adop- tion among non-Hispanic populations and increased interest in authentic regio- nal cuisines. Cross-category product development will expand in 2026, with healthy staples, fusion flavors, and prepared Hispanic meals as busy families seek convenience without sacrificing flavor. Food Safety and Supply Volatility Food safety will take on greater importan- ce as supply chains face multiple pressu- res: Current shortages in agricultural and processing labor, leaving some crops unharvested. Shipping delays. Periodic shortages of fresh produce. Hispanic retailers that rely heavily on fresh fruit, vegetables, meat, and prepared foods will need tighter supplier control, stricter cold chain monitoring, and con- tingency sourcing to prevent disruptions and quality issues. These pressures coincide with growing consumer expectations for transparency regarding origin and nutrition, increasin- gly shaping purchase decisions. Linking store systems with traceability platforms will become essential for chains seeking differentiation in safety and inte- grity within Hispanic communities. Continues on page 62 FOOD INDUSTRY