55 January | February 2026 abasto.com produce items is driving demand for tomatoes, peppers, mangos, avocados, berries, and other staple imports coming through Texas. Their purchasing power will continue shaping retail assortments and promotional strategies in 2026. Retailers and foodservice buyers serving Hispanic consumers should brace for potential fluctuations in availability and pricing, especially for culturally essential items like tomatoes, peppers, and tropical fruits. The coming year will also bring a more data-intensive and technology-enabled supply chain. Growers, importers, and distributors will be increasingly expected to provide real-time visibility, enhanced traceability, and stronger quality assurance. For the Hispanic market, preparation means doubling down on freshness, cultural relevance, and consumer education. Retailers can support their customers by offering bilingual information on origin, handling, and seasonality; highlighting trusted brands and growing regions; and reinforcing the value of produce in everyday meals. If pricing pressures arise, clear communication and thoughtful merchandising can help maintain consumer engagement rather than driving shoppers away from the produce department. DAVID HINOJOSA CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER VALLARTA SUPERMARKETS 1 Accelerated Digital & Omnichannel Expectations: Customers demand faster, more personalized experiences across all channels (online, loyalty, in-store). AI personalization, real-time inventory, and frictionless checkout are now mandatory. For the Hispanic market, this means balancing extreme convenience with maintaining the cultural warmth and authenticity customers value. 2 A Return to Value, Not Lower Quality: Economic pressures will push consumers toward greater value, but unlike previous downturns, they will not compromise on freshness, quality, or cultural relevance. Retailers must focus on culturally significant value: competitive pricing on staples, bulk packs, fresh perishables, and prepared foods. 3 Fresh, Prepared, and Real Food Drives Growth: Shoppers prioritize convenience and health without sacrificing flavor. Authentic prepared foods, fresh bakery, and produce innovation will be major differentiators. For Hispanic grocers, this is a unique growth engine fueled by providing culturally authentic meals and fresh experiences. 4 Supply Chain Resiliency & Cost Discipline: The industry is investing in automation, end-to-end visibility, and data-driven forecasting to manage costs and shrink. Hispanic grocers must modernize distribution, leverage data, and build strategic partnerships to ensure availability and freshness. 5 Expanding Hispanic Influence in Mainstream Retail: The Hispanic consumer continues to shape mass-market trends in flavors, formats, and cultural storytelling. This creates a powerful opportunity for retailers to not just meet demand but to lead the next decade by staying true to culture while embracing innovation. BILL MAYO CEO SAVE A LOT What are the main trends you anticipate for the industry in 2026? Shoppers are increasingly turning to store brands for affordable, high-quality groceries. In tandem, weve seen more interest in cleaner options and expect this demand to grow. Consumers want to feel good about the foods they eat and feed their families. At Save A Lot, were reformulating all of our private label offerings to remove seven artificial dyes. Weve been working with our suppliers to ensure the removal of dyes will not impact or change the overall taste or quality. Customers can feel better about the ingredients in their food without sacrificing affordability. Continues on page 56