The Food Retailing
Industry Speaks 2026
Intensifying Support for Consumers, Employees and Businesses
In its 77th year, The Food Retailing Industry Speaks 2026 examines how the food industry is intensifying its support for consumers, employees and businesses.
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Profit Margins Hold Steady as Food Industry Continues Investment in Shopper Experience
Food retailers and suppliers historically operate on narrow profit margins. Despite economic headwinds, the food industry continues to invest in shoppers' shifting definitions of value, especially health, entertainment, exploration and convenience.
Five Strategies Transforming the Food Industry
In the face of economic uncertainty, the food industry is conditioning itself by prioritizing strong customer experiences and ensuring resilient business operations.
How is the food industry responding to changes in the marketplace?
The food industry is confronting market challenges by investing in supply chain, asset protection, collaboration and advocacy.
51%
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16%
artificial intelligenceFood retailers are using technology such as data analytics (51%) and artificial intelligence (16%) in their loss prevention efforts.
How is the food industry addressing consumer needs?
From health to value, food industry companies are supporting solutions for nutrition, well-being, value, managing costs and feeding families.
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76% of food retailers focus on nutrition, health and well-being as a product strategy.
How is the food industry optimizing the grocery shopping experience?
Consumers have high expectations for their grocery shopping experience, both in-store and online. Food retailers are meeting their needs by prioritizing improved grocery shopping experiences, customer service, fresh foods and product differentiation.
Most food retailers (77%) are planning to increase the space they allocate to foodservice, such as fresh-prepared grab-and-go options.
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How is the food industry leveraging technology for progress?
Technology enables food companies to embrace practical solutions and experiment with strengthening the grocery shopper experience and improving operations.
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40% of food retailers and 82% of suppliers use an organization-wide generative AI solution to assist with operations, including supply chain logistics, workforce planning and marketing.
How is the food industry strengthening business resiliency?
Food companies are finding creative ways to build stronger workforces, stay competitive, and improve productivity and financial results.
70% of retailers and 57% of suppliers offer training and skills development to full-time employees.
Related Contents
These related reports dive into specific food industry operation areas.
Industry Topics address your specific area of expertise with resources, reports, events and more.
Our Research covers consumer behavior and retail operation benchmarks so you can make informed business decisions.
Events and Education including online and in-person help you advance your food retail career.
Food Safety training, resources and guidance that help you create a company food safety culture.
Government Affairs work — federal and state — on the latest food industry policy, regulatory and legislative issues.
Get Involved. From industry awards to newsletters and committees, these resources help you take advantage of your membership.
Best practices, guidance documents, infographics, signage and more for the food industry on the COVID-19 pandemic.
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