6 • May | June 2026 • abasto.com •EDITORIAL Executive Director Retail in Transition: Challenges, Closures, and Resilience in the Industry T he U.S. grocery retail sector ente- red 2026 at a critical juncture. At Abasto, we see how supermarket closures, pressure on margins, and rising operating costs are marking a period of adjustment that cannot be ignored. Added to this is more intense competition and a constantly evolving consumer, forcing the entire industry to rethink its strategy. But beyond the economic indicators, there is a reality we must not lose sight of: every store that closes has a direct im- pact on communities, especially the most vulnerable ones. Retail, at the end of the day, is not just a business; it is an essen- tial service. That is why, in this issue, we wanted to delve deeper into this topic with an analysis by Hernando Ramírez Santos on page 22. At the same time, we believe it is im- portant to highlight stories that reflect the strength and resilience of our sector. On our cover, we feature Padilla Imports (page 26), a company that continues to invest in brand development and market growth. We also celebrate Banner Who- lesale’s 100th anniversary in an exclusive report by Violeta Montes de Oca (page 56), a clear example of the key role played by the wholesale channel in the development of independent retail. We also include in this issue the special insert from the Sweets & Snacks Show (page 51), where we present specific opportunities for the point of sale. Among them, Totis banana chips, ready for distri- bution and with attractive profit potential. Additionally, on page 28 of this insert, we analyze how confectionery can become an effective strategy to boost sales. As part of our commitment to the in- dustry, Abasto will be present at some of the year’s most important events, such as Expo ANTAD 2026, the Sweets & Snacks Show, NRA (National Restaurant Asso- ciation), IDDBA (International Dairy, Deli and Bakery Association), and the Summer Fancy Food Show. Through our platforms, both print and digital, we aim to bring you the most relevant insights from each of these events, connecting you with trends, innovations, and new opportunities. In these pages, you’ll also find content on artificial intelligence, practical tools for your business, and diverse perspecti- ves that will help you better understand where the industry is headed. At Abasto, we are convinced that even in times of transformation, retail can adapt, evolve, and emerge stronger. 2026 will be a pivotal year for those who know how to anticipate changes without losing sight of the opportunities offered by a dy- namic market.