The food industry is contending with a range of challenges, including low profit margins, economic uncertainty, regulatory pressures and evolving consumer expectations. However, grocers and suppliers have adapted, invested in what matters and remained focused on the consumer, writes Leslie G. Sarasin, president and CEO of FMI -- The Food Industry Association in this piece for Grocery Dive. "With a growth mindset, retailers and manufacturers see opportunities for enhancing partnerships and delivering value for shoppers," Sarasin writes. "And the food industry will continue to adjust to the changing economic, social, and political topography it traverses in the delivery of safe, affordable, and delicious food. It will face the challenges, adapting and embracing them as opportunities for new paths to connect with their customers."

Target has appointed longtime executive Michael Fiddelke as its new CEO, succeeding Brian Cornell, who will become executive chairman. Fiddelke, who has spent much of his career at Target after joining as a summer intern, will assume the role in February. He has emphasized the need to return to Target's roots of stylish and unique merchandise, as well as enhancing customer experience, to drive growth and restore the company's market position.

North Texas cities like Frisco and McKinney -- among the fastest-growing in the country -- are drawing major investments from grocery chains. Both Whole Foods and H-E-B are opening stores in these high-growth areas, with Whole Foods building a new Frisco store and another location opening soon in McKinney, while H-E-B is making plans for more stores in the area as it expands its footprint in its home state.

Campbell's Chunky has partnered with Pabst Blue Ribbon to create exclusive beer-infused soups for Walmart, including Beer Cheese with Potatoes Chorizo and Beef, Bacon Beer Chili with Beans. The collaboration will be promoted through a dive bar event at Ray's Bar in New York City and a Walmart food truck tour.

Consumers are increasingly concerned about the food price impact of tariffs, with 55% citing tariffs as a top concern, according to FMI -- The Food Industry Association. During a recent briefing, Andy Harig of FMI and Dr. Ricky Volpe of California Polytechnic State University discussed how tariffs affect prices and supply chains, noting that 80% of retailers and suppliers expect tariffs to impact prices. Despite these concerns, most consumers feel they have control over their food spending. 

Social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram are increasingly being used by brands to launch episodic scripted series that blend entertainment and subtle marketing. Bilt's "Roomies" is part of a wider trend where brands create content designed to engage users without overt advertising, capitalizing on algorithm-driven feeds and the desire for organic, relatable stories.

Trucking fleets are adopting advanced driver-assistance systems to improve highway safety amid rising traffic congestion. Technologies such as automatic emergency braking, lane departure warnings and onboard cameras have reduced accidents for companies such as Boyle Transportation and Pitt Ohio.

Bring meaningful moments to your family table with our new Table Talk Placemats. Download these high-quality printable files to spark engaging conversations, strengthen family connections and inspire thoughtful dialogue at every meal.

Are you a startup innovating in the grocery or food retail space? The FMItech Pitch Competition could be your launchpad to national exposure and strategic partnerships. Below, we've answered the most frequently asked questions to help you decide if your startup should apply.