4 • March | April 2026 • abasto.com CORTESY IDAHO POTATO COMMISSION F or many Hispanic families, food and togetherness go hand in hand. Whether it’s a backyard carne asada, a family movie night, or a summer evening spent laughing with loved ones, the moments that matter most are often simple, shared experiences. That same spirit of crea- tivity, nostalgia, and connection is at the heart of the 2026 Idaho Potato Lo- vers Display Contest. This year’s contest is turning heads across the produce industry, as it en- courages front-line produce experts to help Idaho potatoes stand out with bold creativity and storytelling. The 2026 Idaho Potato Lovers Display Contest Organized by the Idaho Potato Com- mission, the contest challenges re- tailers to design eye-catching potato displays that go beyond the basics. Potato Lovers Month is still the only contest that rewards EVERY SINGLE entry. With more than $150,000 in cash and prizes available, the competition rewards imagination, engagement, and emotional connection. That’s where the idea of drive-in movies fits perfectly. Drive-in theaters are deeply roo- ted in American culture, especially among families who value afforda- ble entertainment, shared food, and memorable nights under the stars. For many, drive-ins evoke memories of piling into the car, bringing home- made snacks, and enjoying a movie together. Idaho potatoes naturally belong in that experience. Just as popcorn became a movie-ni- ght staple, Idaho potatoes can easily take center stage. Think crispy oven- baked potato wedges seasoned with chili and lime, loaded baked potato- es topped with cheese and crema, or homemade fries served family-style. The Power of Idaho Potatoes, Drive-In Movies, and Family Traditions Idaho Potatoes are meant to be sha- red, passed around, and enjoyed to- gether. It doesn’t get more familiar than that, Idaho Potatoes as the cen- tral dish to unite friends and family. For Hispanic consumers especia- lly, Idaho potatoes represent ver- satility, value, and tradition. They fit seamlessly into familiar recipes while offering endless new possibi- lities. Pairing them with a drive-in movie themed POS highlights their role not just as an ingredient, but as part of meaningful family moments. Retail displays inspired by drive-in themes tap into that same nostal- gia. A creative potato display that reminds shoppers of movie nights, classic films, or family gatherings doesn’t just sell Idaho potatoes, it evokes a memory or generates the start to a new family tradition. How do you create that emotional con- nection telling a story, with a display, that will drive customers to grab a bag and take it home? Great displays don’t just sell po- tatoes, they create moments. Mo- ments that remind shoppers of fami- ly, tradition, and time spent together. Your Point-of-Sale kit is the first step in bringing that story to your produ- ce department. Order yours today, www.idahopotato.com/forms/3 start planning your display, and grab your share of more than $150,000 in cash and prizes while celebrating the tradition of Idaho potatoes. Hispanic Consumer’s Displays Special Insert Agriculture industry