Walmart Opens Next-Generation Fulfillment Center in Stockton, Expanding Faster Delivery Across the West Coast

Walmart today opened its fifth next-generation fulfillment center, a more than 900,000-square-foot facility in Stockton that will create more than 1,000 jobs and expand the retailer’s ability to provide faster shipping and delivery to customers across California and the West Coast.

The new facility represents the latest step in Walmart’s transformation of its supply chain, bringing associates together with advanced automation, technology and machine learning to move products faster and more efficiently. The technology enables Walmart to materially improve...

Alimentation Couch-Tard Enters into Definitive Agreement to Acquire Retail Assets from Irving Oil 

Alimentation Couche-Tard Inc. announced today that it has entered into a definitive agreement with Irving Oil to acquire certain retail assets in Québec and Ontario.

The transaction includes 50 retail sites already operated by Couche-Tard under the Québec Alliance between Irving Oil and Couche-Tard, as well as two retail sites in Pembroke and Cornwall, Ontario, already operated by Couche-Tard. It also covers fuel supply to 71 retail sites owned and operated by Couche-Tard...

Expana's Weekly Top 10

This week’s Top 10 highlights mounting pressure across global supply chains, from escalating trade tensions and higher transportation costs to weather-driven disruptions in agricultural production. At the same time, shifting holiday spending plans are pushing retailers and foodservice operators to lean into value and convenience, while tight protein supplies and export restrictions add uncertainty to global markets.

Trade, Tariffs and Transportation Costs

10. Recent Section 338 Tariffs Strike New Blow to North American Glass By Shannon Behary

US-Canada trade tensions are putting major pressure on North America’s alcohol and...

ANALYSIS: Beef Cold Storage Volume Bucks 3-Year Trend, Rises in August as Domestic Demand Increased

Beef cold storage volumes for the month of August increased. This bucks the previous three-year trend where volumes decreased heading into August. This increase can be attributed to boneless beef, as beef cuts actually declined and are at levels below the previous three years. Boneless material, on the other hand, rose above the previous three years, which is an interesting standout, as the monthly volume of imports was the second lowest for the year.

Load volumes traded on a monthly...

ANALYSIS: US 2026 Choice Boneless Ribeye Hits All-Time High Amid Tightening Cattle Supply

The Choice boneless ribeye just hit an all-time record high price as of October 2, 2026, with a weekly average of $15.55/lb. At this time in 2025, the Choice boneless ribeye was at a weekly average of $14.55/lb, a 6.8% increase from the same point in 2025 to 2026. Last year's high came around September 15, 2025, at $14.67/lb, which is 5.6% under the current high of $15.55/lb. After that high in 2025, prices...

ANALYSIS: Broiler Hatchery Figures Rebound From Recent Past

US broiler hatchery activity softened noticeably through late August and early September before regaining momentum in recent weeks. Egg sets slipped slightly below year-ago levels for the first time this year in the weeks ending 8/31 and 9/7, registering -0.67% at 248,652 thousand and -0.85% at 245,199 thousand, respectively. Chick placements followed a similarly uneven trajectory, declining to -0.39% at 193,423 thousand in the week ending 8/31 before briefly recovering and then retreating to -1.02% at 193,295 thousand by 9/21. Since...

Expana Publication Schedule for the Indigenous Peoples’ Day Holiday Period

Expana will be observing the Indigenous Peoples’ Day holiday on Monday, October 12, across its Americas offices, which will impact the publication dates of several Expana Benchmark Prices and news across all platforms. 

The Indigenous Peoples’ Day holiday period will affect the following markets:

Holiday Spending Outlook Puts Value and Convenience in Focus for Foodservice

US consumers are expected to spend slightly less this holiday season as higher costs pressure household budgets. For foodservice operators and retailers, the outlook suggests consumers still plan to celebrate, but will be more selective about where holiday dollars go.

According to Circana’s 2026 US Holiday Purchase Intentions Study, consumers plan to spend an average of $779 during the 2026 holiday season, down from $796 in 2025. The survey of 3,534 US consumers found most shoppers expect to spend about the same as...

Rollins Urges Federal Land Ranchers to Put June Grazing Directive to Work

Today, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins sent a letter to all livestock ranchers holding grazing permits on U.S. Forest Service allotments, outlining the Department’s June 12, 2026 Grazing Directive and inviting producers to put it to work on their allotments.

The letter builds on the October 20, 2025 USDA Plan to Fortify the American Beef Industry and the March 31, 2026 Advancing Grazing on Forest Service and BLM Lands Memorandum of Understanding signed by Secretary Rollins and Secretary of the Interior Doug...

USDA Announces $1.8 Billion in 2026 Conservation Program Payments

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced today it is issuing approximately $1.8 billion in Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) payments to agricultural producers and landowners for their participation in key conservation programs for 2026. These payments include Grassland CRP payments that play an important role in the Trump Administration’s Ranchers First Initiative announced by USDA Secretary Brooke L. Rollins that includes sweeping actions focused on rebuilding the Great American Cattle Herd and putting America’s ranchers back at the center of our nation’s...

Outback Steakhouse Revamps Steak Lineup with New Cuts, Preparation Standards

Outback Steakhouse is putting a renewed focus on its core menu category with the launch of “Best Steaks Ever,” a steak-focused initiative that introduces new cuts and updated preparation standards across the brand.

The program includes enhanced cut specifications, hand-trimming techniques, seasoning standards and preparation methods designed to improve tenderness and flavor consistency.

"Outback has always been a place where mates can come as they are and enjoy a great steak," said Pat Hafner, president of Outback Steakhouse. "But with 'Best Steaks Ever,' we challenged ourselves....

Newer, Better, Bacon-ier: Butterball® Brand Introduces Updated Turkey Bacon

Butterball, LLC, the company known for the most recognized and loved* turkey brand in the U.S., today announced its new and improved Butterball Original Turkey Bacon and Lower Sodium Turkey Bacon, bringing consumers a more flavorful, tastier experience at breakfast and beyond.

The refreshed turkey bacon features a smoky flavor more like traditional bacon, balancing savory and sweet in each bite, as well as a new appearance that more closely resembles traditional bacon. The new offerings follow extensive testing and product development by Butterball, LLC, informed...

ANALYSIS: US Turkey Cold Storage Slips in August as Whole Bird Supplies Stay Historically

Total cold storage of US turkey meat was down 2.2% year-over-year (YOY) in August at 394.0 million pounds. This was a 3.1% month-over-month (MOM) decline from July, when the 5-year average MOM change is an increase of 0.2%. Much of this change can be attributed to whole birds. Whole bird stocks during this time of year typically make up between 55% and 60% of the total frozen inventories, so any changes in those inventories tend to significantly...

How JBS USA Is Growing Its Prepared Foods Business: A Q&A with Sergio Nahuz

At JBS, prepared foods is one of the most important growth priorities. Through continued investment in products, brands and capabilities, we see this business as a significant driver for the future. Sergio Nahuz, President of Prepared Foods at JBS USA and Pilgrim’s, provides his insight about where the prepared foods business is headed – and why he believes the biggest chapter is still ahead.

Article Snapshot:

• Prepared foods is a key growth priority for JBS USA, with investments in brands, innovation and...

GSF Earns Wendy’s 2026 Good Done Right Award

Golden State Foods received the 2026 Good Done Right Award from its customer, Wendy’s, and the Quality Supply Chain Co-op (QSCC), earning recognition as Wendy’s Supplier of the Year during the 2026 Wendy’s Convention & Supplier Show in Las Vegas. The award honors one supplier partner each year for advancing Wendy’s corporate responsibility pillars of Food, People and Footprint.

The recognition reflects a strong partnership that reaches across every area of the business. Teams from operations, R&D, culinary, supply chain, project management and commercialization, quality assurance...

Eggs Up Grill Extends Franchise Growth Streak With 11 New Commitments

Eggs Up Grill, the fastest-growing and largest daytime restaurant franchise in the country, continued to attract experienced multi-unit franchise operators in the third quarter of 2026, signing 11 new restaurant commitments across four franchise groups while extending its positive same-restaurant sales growth streak to 23 consecutive quarters.

The quarter reflects an important evolution in Eggs Up Grill's franchise growth strategy as the brand increasingly attracts multi-unit, multi-brand operators looking to diversify their portfolios. Three new franchise groups joined...

Fatburger Launches First-Ever Loyalty Program, Fatburger Rewards

Fatburger, the Hollywood-favorite brand known for its made-to-order burgers and owned by OHG Brands, is giving fans even more reasons to make Fatburger their next burger stop. The chain has officially launched its first-ever loyalty program, Fatburger Rewards (fatburger.com/rewards), giving members the chance to earn points with every eligible purchase, while turning their Fatburger cravings into rewards they will love.

With Fatburger Rewards, members earn one point for every $1 spent on eligible purchases and can redeem $5 off for every...

Datassential Sees Familiar Flavors, Global Specialties Shaping 2027 Food and Beverage Innovation

Some of the food and beverage trends expected to shape 2027 are not entirely new. According to Datassential, several familiar menu items that have already reached broad adoption are gaining renewed momentum as operators find new ways to use them.

In highlights from its 2027 Trends Report, the market research firm said items such as banana, anchovy, mango, deli salads and the old fashioned are seeing a comeback, even though they are already well established. The company said these concepts are being refreshed through...

USDA Announces Record Payments of $13.8 Billion for 2025 Crop Year Revenue and Price Safety Net Programs

Today, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins announced that the Farm Service Agency’s Agriculture Risk Coverage (ARC) and Price Loss Coverage (PLC) will generate approximately $13.8 billion in gross payments to eligible agricultural producers for the 2025 crop year; the largest annual payout by far since these key safety net programs were established in the 2014 Farm Bill.

“President Trump has been the biggest champion for American farmers, and today's announcement delivers nearly...

QSR Report Finds that AI Boosts Drive-thru Efficiency, but Slips on Hospitality

Artificial intelligence is playing a bigger role in quick-service restaurant drive-thrus, but new research suggests operators may be sacrificing parts of the guest experience as automation takes over more of the ordering process.

The 2026 QSR Drive-Thru Report, produced by QSR in partnership with Intouch Insight, found that hospitality-related employee behaviors declined when AI handled the ordering interaction. The findings point to a potential trade-off for restaurant operators looking to improve efficiency...

APHIS Issues Revised New World Screwworm Response Playbook

The USDA's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service has released revised versions of the New World Screwworm Response Playbook and associated supplemental documents. These updates reflect the feedback and priorities discussed during the first Quarterly NWS Playbook Review meeting held on Sept. 9.

Stakeholder input is essential to ensure that the playbook and supplemental materials remain clear, practical and responsive to operational needs across states, industry and federal partners.

Key updates this quarter

August Beef Exports Above Year-Ago, but Pork Trended Lower

Fueled by a near-record performance in Taiwan and a rebound in South Korea, August exports of U.S. beef increased year-over-year, according to data released by USDA and compiled by the U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF). August pork exports were lower than a year ago, primarily due to a sharp decline in shipments to Mexico compared to the large totals posted in August 2025.

Beef exports reached 86,362 metric tons (mt) in August, up 4% from a year ago, while export value climbed 13% to $785.9 million...

The Grocery Bill Is Telling a Bigger Story About America’s Economy

For millions of households, the challenge isn’t simply that groceries are expensive. It’s that incomes, food prices, and supply shocks are colliding in ways that make the trip to the supermarket increasingly difficult to navigate.

Perhaps the most revealing number in the latest WalletHub analysis of grocery costs may not be the price of a gallon of milk or a pound of ground beef, but the percentage of a household’s income that disappears at the checkout counter.

In Detroit, residents spend an average of 4.03% of median monthly household...

ANALYSIS: Australian Beef Export Growth Cools in Q3 2026 as China, Korea Shipments Retreat

Australia's beef export growth lost momentum through the third quarter of 2026 as safeguard restrictions across two major North Asian markets began to chisel away at the strong gains recorded earlier in the year.

Third-quarter exports totaled 404,454 metric tons (MT), down 4.8% year-on-year (YOY) from 425,016 MT in Q3 2025 and 8.1% from Q2's 440,179 MT, according to data from Australia's Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF).

The contraction was heavily concentrated in China and Korea. Shipments to China plunged...

Piggly Wiggly Food For Less Launches eGrowcery Platform to Boost Customer Engagement

Piggly Wiggly Food For Less, owned and operated through McDaniel Family Investments in Florida, Alabama and Georgia, is upgrading the eCommerce experience for its shoppers through eGrowcery, developer of the leading retail food industry eCommerce platform for grocers. Piggly Wiggly Food For Less is taking advantage of eGrowcery’s customized search functions, time-saving fulfillment approach, fully integrated loyalty experience and best-in-class client support.

"Our shoppers want a fast and easy way to get their groceries, and that's exactly what this upgrade delivers...

CKE Restaurants Expands Executive Leadership Structure to Support Carl’s Jr. and Hardee’s Growth

CKE Restaurants is expanding its executive leadership structure under CEO Joe Guith, creating dedicated leadership for Carl’s Jr. and Hardee’s as the company looks to accelerate growth across both brands.

Alisa Gmelich has been named President of Hardee’s, joining Iwona Alter, President of Carl’s Jr., in leading the two chains. CKE said the move is part of Guith’s effort to establish dedicated brand leadership while sharpening focus on operational performance, franchisee profitability and long-term brand relevance...

FSIS Issues Public Health Alert for Illegally Imported Chicken Vienna Sausages from Jamaica

The US Department of Agriculture’s (USDA's) Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) has issued a public health alert for canned chicken Vienna-style sausage products that were illegally imported from Jamaica.

FSIS said the issue was identified during routine surveillance of imported products in commerce. Jamaica is not eligible to export meat or poultry products to the United States, and the agency has launched an investigation into how the items entered the country.

The alert covers 140-g cans of “GRACE READY TO EAT CHICKEN...

FMI Report Shows Prepared Foods are Becoming Part of How Shoppers Build Meals at Home

The Food Industry Association (FMI) has released the 11th edition of its annual report series examining consumer behaviors and shopping patterns around deli-prepared foods in grocery stores.

The latest findings in The Power of Foodservice at Retail 2026 suggest grocery prepared foods are now a regular part of how consumers approach meals at home, with many shoppers blending store-prepared items with home cooking rather than treating foodservice as a separate occasion. The survey was conducted online using Qualtrics...

Cargill Expands Renewable Electricity Portfolio in the Central United States

Cargill is expanding its renewable electricity portfolio in the United States through solar and wind projects in Oklahoma and South Dakota. By focusing on regions where it operates, the company is working to reduce emissions from how food is produced and processed while supporting more resilient and efficient operations.

Cargill has entered into a virtual power purchase agreement (VPPA) for 87 megawatts (MW) of wind power from the Sweetland Wind project in South Dakota. The 12.6-year agreement is expected to generate approximately 392,000 megawatt-hours (MWh) of renewable electricity annually, supporting a reduction of approximately 162,000 metric tons (MT) of...

FMI Applauds the Administration’s Announcement on Diesel Prices

The Food Industry Association welcomed the White House announcement yesterday evening regarding actions to address diesel prices. FMI Chief Public Policy Officer and General Counsel Stephanie Harris offered the following statement.

“FMI appreciates efforts by the White House to lower diesel prices and address cost pressures in the supply chain. Diesel fuel is the lifeblood of food production and distribution and impacts every step of the process from field to shelf. Any relief from the pressures associated with getting food to store shelves is welcome as our members remain focused on delivering...

OpenTable and Visa Extend Their Agreement in the US, Mexico and Canada

OpenTable, a global leader in restaurant technology, and Visa, a world leader in digital payments, today announced a renewed agreement across the U.S., Mexico and Canada. The next phase will broaden the Visa Dining Collection in Mexico and Canada and deliver an expanded events program, giving eligible Visa cardholders more ways to discover and book memorable dining experiences across the three countries.

The Visa Dining Collection Grows Across Canada and Mexico

The Visa Dining Collection will continue as part of a new...

McLane Fresh Foodservice Programs Win Two Major Industry Awards

McLane Company Inc., one of the nation’s largest distributors and an industry-leading partner to retail and restaurant brands nationwide, was recently named a winner in two 2026 best new product competitions. CSP and Convenience Store News recognized McLane Fresh foodservice programs Prendisimo with Duo Slice Pizza and HiBird chicken strips.

Prendisimo Duo Slice Pizza, which McLane unveiled at CSP’s Convenience Retailing University in February, won the Foodservice: Pizza category of CSP’s 2026 Retailer’s Choice Best New Products Contest. Designed for convenience retail, Duo...

KFC® Puts a Snackable Spin on its Iconic Bucket with $3.49* Go Buckets

KFC is introducing Go Buckets, a new way to KFC that brings its signature Finger Lickin' Good® chicken to snacking occasions and moments beyond the traditional meal. Designed for on-the-go occasions, Go Buckets pair a choice of KFC chicken with fries or wedges, starting at just $3.49.

The new menu addition comes as snacking plays a bigger role in how Americans eat throughout the day. In fact, 87% of consumers reported snacking outside traditional mealtimes, according...

New World Screwworm in the US - What We Know

The New World screwworm (NWS), a flesh-eating parasitic fly whose larvae feed on living tissue, has re-emerged as a major animal-health threat in the Americas after spreading northward through Central America and Mexico.

Federal and state authorities have expanded surveillance, quarantines, and sterile-fly releases in an effort to prevent the pest from becoming re-established in the country.

Expana is closely tracking the situation—see below for related coverage and an updated factsheet with the latest developments...

MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Import of Poultry Meat and Products from Areas in US and UK Suspended

A CFS spokesman said that according to the Census and Statistics Department, Hong Kong imported about 24 190 tonnes of chilled and frozen poultry meat and about 20.2 million poultry eggs from the US, and about 340 tonnes of chilled and frozen poultry meat from the UK in the first six months of this year.

"The CFS has contacted the American and British authorities over the issues and will closely monitor information issued by the WOAH and the relevant authorities on the avian influenza outbreaks. Appropriate action will be taken in response to the development of the situation," the spokesman said...

Farmers Grateful for Diesel Tax Relief 

American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall tonight applauded the executive order signed by President Trump to ease limits on the use of tax-exempt dyed diesel fuel to give farmers a break.

"We thank President Trump for recognizing that what happens at the fuel pump directly affects what happens on the farm and therefore at dinner tables across America. Allowing dyed diesel fuel to be used over-the-road will bring welcome relief for farmers because every cent per gallon matters when you're running a fleet of grain trucks or hauling cattle hundreds...

Secretary Rollins Release Statement on President Trump Dyed-Diesel EO Signing

Today [October 5, 2026], U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins issued a statement on President Trump’s new executive order to provide relief for our farmers and ranchers by lifting taxes on dyed-diesel. Today’s action expected to represent approximately $640 million in combined federal and state savings across about 224.6 million harvested acres.

“President Trump is the most pro ranching and farming president in our lifetime. Energy dominance is at the core of putting farmers and ranchers first. This administration has unleashed American energy dominance, and we are now the largest energy producer...

Global Fast Food Market Seen Reaching $2.57 Trillion by 2031, Report Says

The global fast food market is projected to reach $2.57 trillion by 2031, up from $1.78 trillion in 2026, according to Mordor Intelligence. Its latest research report points to convenience, digital ordering and changing consumer preferences as key growth drivers.

The study shows that technology is playing a bigger role in restaurant operations. Mordor Intelligence cited Domino's March update to its Tracker, which added an AI-powered system designed to provide more accurate ready-time estimates and better order visibility. Domino’s said the...

Albertsons Names Cody Perdue Interim CFO

Albertsons Companies has appointed Cody Perdue as interim Chief Financial Officer (CFO), effective Oct. 5, as the company searches for a permanent successor.

Perdue, who currently serves as Senior Vice President (VP) of Treasury, Investor Relations and Risk Management, will continue overseeing those functions while serving as interim CFO.

He succeeds Sharon McCollam, who previously announced plans to retire. McCollam will remain with Albertsons in an advisory capacity through the end of the company’s fiscal year on Feb. 27, 2027, to support the transition...

Red Robin Gourmet Burgers, Inc. Completes Refinancing to Strengthen Financial Foundation

Red Robin Gourmet Burgers, Inc., a casual dining restaurant chain serving an innovative selection of high-quality gourmet burgers in a family-friendly atmosphere, today announced it completed the refinancing of its secured credit facility (the "Credit Facility") on October 2, 2026. The new facility replaces the Company's prior credit agreement and follows the substantial completion of its refranchising transactions, the first step in strengthening the balance sheet under the First Choice Plan.

As announced on September 1, 2026, Red Robin completed...

Expana's Weekly Top 10

Energy markets, supply constraints and shifting trade dynamics are creating new pressures across food and agriculture. This week’s Top Ten brings together key developments affecting global commodities, supply chains and the broader market outlook, along with insights from Expana’s analysts and contributors.

Global Markets & Supply Chains

10. A Chatham House/FSC study warns that higher oil prices are accelerating biofuel mandates and tightening global food supplies, with Expana analysts highlighting record corn use for ethanol and biofuels as a major driver of oilseed acreage growth. While electrification, advanced biofuels and deforestation...

Meat Institute Supports Nomination of Greg Ibach to be Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Affairs

The Meat Institute today issued the following statement in support of the nomination of Greg Ibach to be the Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs at the US Department of Agriculture:

“Greg Ibach is a committed public servant with deep knowledge of agricultural markets, and he understands that access to new markets is especially critical to beef and pork producers and processors,” said Meat Institute President and CEO Julie Anna Potts. “Ibach’s appointment will advance the Trump Administration’s ongoing efforts to break down tariff and non-tariff barriers in global markets to enable the...

TAHC Establishes New World Screwworm Requirements for Animals Moving from Affected States

The Texas Animal Health Commission (TAHC) executive director issued entry requirements for all livestock, exotic livestock, fowl, and exotic fowl from New World screwworm (NWS) affected states outside of Texas. These additional movement requirements are placed to prevent potential introduction or spread of NWS to new areas of the state. The executive director order applies to a state where NWS has been detected and a NWS infested zone, quarantine area, or control area remains active.

In addition to all existing and applicable Texas entry...

ANALYSIS: August Pork Cold Storage Stocks Buck Seasonal Trend

US pork in cold storage volumes remains among the lowest in the last 10-years, as the recently released report showed frozen stocks totaling 436.3 million lbs. at the end of August, down 0.8% from July, but 12% above August 2025, according to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). The modest monthly decline masked some differences among individual pork items. Ham inventories increased 3.2% from July and 26.4% year over year (YOY), while loins climbed 12.7% month over month (MOM) and...

ANALYSIS: Weak Demand Pressures Tallow and Grease Markets

The tallow and grease markets continued to exhibit weaker tones through late September, with pressure developing as spot availability increased and demand from both the oleochemical and renewable fuel sectors remained subdued...

Middle East Market Intelligence Brief: Week Ending October 2, 2026

Iran is preparing a stronger response if the United States resumes large-scale attacks, including potentially expanding targets beyond US-linked assets and involving allied groups in the region.

Tehran continues diplomatic efforts, though Iranian officials say an agreement with Washington appears unlikely. The prolonged war and economic pressure are raising concerns about Iran’s economy and possible domestic unrest.

Meanwhile, Brazil’s closely contested election between Lula and Flavio Bolsonaro is drawing attention over fiscal policy and market impacts, alongside upcoming elections in other countries, including the US.

Below is Expana’s...

ANALYSIS: French Poultry Industry Calls for Tighter Controls on Thai Imports

In September 2026, the French poultry industry association has called on the European Union to suspend poultry imports from Thailand and halt the introduction of new preferential tariff quotas until Thai authorities can demonstrate full compliance with EU sanitary requirements.

The call follows the publication of a European Commission audit on September 10, 2026, which identified significant shortcomings in Thailand’s animal health and food safety control systems. Despite the concerns raised by the audit, the French poultry association said that no formal measures to suspend Thai poultry imports had...

Smashburger Gives Its Signature Smash the New York Deli Treatment with New Pastrami Lineup

Bell is partnering with language-learning platform Duolingo to expand National Taco Day into a global celebration on Oct. 6, introducing a limited-edition sauce, promotional offers and brand activations across multiple international markets.

The collaboration includes the launch of Duo Habanero Sauce, available for a limited time at participating Taco Bell restaurants in the US, Canada, Australia, China, India, Spain and the UK. The campaign also features language-learning promotions, branded merchandise and in-store activations designed to...

Taco Bell, Duolingo Take National Taco Day Gwith Limited-Time Sauce

Taco Bell is partnering with language-learning platform Duolingo to expand National Taco Day into a global celebration on Oct. 6, introducing a limited-edition sauce, promotional offers and brand activations across multiple international markets.

The collaboration includes the launch of Duo Habanero Sauce, available for a limited time at participating Taco Bell restaurants in the US, Canada, Australia, China, India, Spain and the UK. The campaign also features language-learning promotions, branded merchandise and in-store activations designed to connect the brands through the word “taco,”...

Marco's Pizza Celebrates National Pizza Month with Chef-Curated Pairings Built for Real Cravings

October is National Pizza Month, and Marco's Pizza, one of the nation's fastest-growing pizza brands, is marking the occasion the way it knows best, by tapping Director of Culinary Innovation Chef Kathleen Kennedy to build five complete, craveable pairings that turn a Marco's order into a full flavor experience - pizza, apps, salads, dip cups, and dessert included.

With more than 40 years of culinary experience in both high-end restaurants and across brands like Kraft, Starbucks, and Walmart...

L&L Hawaiian Barbecue Enters Canada with 5-Unit Franchise Agreement

L&L Hawaiian Barbecue, the Hawai'i-based restaurant concept known for its authentic plate lunches with more than 240 locations across the U.S. and Japan, will make its debut in Canada in 2027 through a five-unit franchise agreement with locally based Edmonton Ice District Ltd.

The agreement will bring L&L Hawaiian Barbecue to the province of Alberta, with its first restaurant planned for Edmonton.

"This milestone expansion reflects our confidence in bringing our aloha spirit and made-to-order comfort food of Hawai'i to new...

US Beef, Pork Cuts Introduced to Upscale Restaurants in Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula

USMEF’s mobile grill and kitchen provides great flexibility for introducing targeted cuts of U.S. red meat to new regions, new markets and new customers in Mexico. In partnership with importers and distributors, USMEF identifies cuts and variety meat items that have local potential and promotes those items by bringing the mobile kitchen directly to end-user customers, typically in locations that can accommodate large groups such as parking lots or open areas.

One such training and promotional event was held recently in Cancún, where 100 regional customers of Sigma Foodservice learned about alternative cuts of U.S. beef and....

Meat Institute Celebrates 120th Anniversary of Serving the US Meat and Poultry Industry

Milestone marks more than a century of advocacy, food safety leadership and member service

The Meat Institute this month will celebrate its 120th anniversary, marking 12 decades of representing and serving the meat and poultry industry. Several of its members recognized the historic milestone in a celebratory video.

"For 120 years, the Meat Institute has stood alongside the men and women who feed this country and the world,” said Julie Anna Potts, Meat Institute President and CEO. “This anniversary is a celebration of their work...

Farmers Call on President Trump to Provide Diesel Price Relief

As farmers and ranchers face record-high diesel costs, American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall today [October 1, 2026] called on the president to take several steps to lower prices at the pump, including a temporary suspension of the federal highway diesel tax.

“Higher diesel expenses are hitting farmers at one of the most fuel-intensive times of the year – harvest,” wrote Mr. Duvall in a letter to President Trump. “Diesel is essential for the American economy and for farmers. Everything on the farm, from running tractors, combines and irrigation equipment to transporting crops...

USMEF Statement on Nomination of Greg Ibach for USDA Under Secretary for Trade

President Trump has nominated Greg Ibach to serve as USDA under secretary for trade and foreign agricultural affairs. Ibach is a former director of the Nebraska Department of Agriculture and was USDA under secretary for marketing and regulatory programs during the first Trump administration.

U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF) President and CEO Dan Halstrom issued this statement:

USMEF has been honored to work closely with Greg Ibach for many years, when he was a true champion for agricultural trade at both the state and federal levels. He has seen firsthand the returns...

ANALYSIS: Four Months Below 47%, Female Slaughter Signals a Shift Toward Herd Rebuilding

The percentage of weekly cattle slaughter accounted for by females (cows & heifers) broke below the 47% mark in late May, dipping to 46.3% the week of May 23 after opening the period near 49%. Since briefly testing 47% again in mid-June, female slaughter has stayed under that threshold for essentially the entire summer, drifting through the mid-to-high 44% range with a low of 43.6% the week of August 29. The pattern has held for roughly four consecutive... 

ANALYSIS: US Harvest Pace Slows, Winter Wheat Seeding Lags as Storm Remnants Soak the Plains

US farmers hit a speed bump last week after weeks of running ahead of schedule, as the USDA's latest Crop Progress report showed corn and soybean harvest advancing more slowly than the prior pace amid widespread Midwest rainfall. Corn harvest reached 18% complete nationally as of September 27, matching the five-year average, while soybean harvest stood at 17%, also in line with historical norms. Crop conditions told a more cautious story: 57% of corn was rated good to excellent, unchanged from the previous...

President Trump Eliminates Disease-Carrying Pests and Restores Enjoyment of The Great Outdoors

ELIMINATING INVASIVE TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Today, President Donald J. Trump signed an Executive Order to eliminate invasive ticks and mosquitoes in the Federal jurisdiction of Washington, D.C. through safe and effective, non-chemical, and technology-enabled methods, and invest in pioneering approaches to eliminate these pests throughout the country.

* The Order directs the Secretary of the Interior, the Secretary of Agriculture, the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency, and the Administrator of General Services, along with the Secretary of Health and Human Services, to develop and implement a campaign across Washington, D.C. to reduce...

NestFresh Reaches Major Humanely Hatched™ Milestone, Sparing 1.2 Million Male Chicks

NestFresh, a leading humane egg producer in the U.S., today announced a major milestone in its Humanely Hatched™ program: 1.2 million chicks have now been successfully hatched using in-ovo sexing technology, helping spare 1.2 million male chicks from being euthanized after birth. The company expects that number to reach 1.5 million by the end of 2026.

The milestone marks a significant step forward in NestFresh's effort to bring in-ovo sexing to commercial scale in the U.S. egg industry. While more egg companies are beginning to announce commitments to in-ovo technology, NestFresh has been actively...

California Cold Chain Laws Set to Add Costs for Industry

California Gov. Gavin Newsom has signed two bills into law that the Global Cold Chain Alliance (GCCA) says will add financial and regulatory burdens to the state’s food and pharmaceutical cold storage industry. Assembly Bill 817 (AB 817) and Senate Bill 716 (SB 716), signed Sept. 30, take effect Jan. 1, 2027. The measures were introduced following a June 17 industrial fire in Los Angeles that affected the Boyle Heights community and surrounding areas.

GCCA opposed both bills, saying they fall short of strengthening emergency preparedness...

USMEF Partners with Importer to Launch US Pork Boston Butt in Chile

Throughout Latin America, USMEF is enhancing market development efforts for the U.S. pork Boston butt. In Colombia, USMEF markets the Boston butt as an “opportunity cut” to the trade. In Mexico, Boston butt is the “U.S. pork cut of the year.”

The Boston butt’s versatility and flavor are suited to a great variety of menu applications and presents new opportunities to get U.S. pork on menus in the region. A recent target market for the Boston butt is Chile, where USMEF promoted it at a product launch event in Santiago. USMEF partnered with Chilean importer Almakila to introduce the Boston butt to its end-user customers...

Meat Institute Issues Statement on Pork and Beef Trade Opportunities with China

Following the announcement that beef and pork were included in the list of goods qualifying for better trade treatment as a result of ongoing negotiations with China, the Meat Institute released the following statement:

“The Meat Institute is appreciative of Ambassador Greer’s ongoing efforts to secure greater access to Chinese markets for US pork and beef,” said Meat Institute President and CEO Julie Anna Potts. “It was great to see the inclusion of beef and pork on the list of non-sensitive goods, which will set the foundation...

ANALYSIS: Brazil Fully Exhausts 1.106M MT China Beef Safeguard Quota in 272 Days

On September 29, China's General Administration of Customs, as published via the China International Trade Single Window, has confirmed that Brazil has reached 100% of the quantity stipulated under China's Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM) Announcement No. 87 of 2025, exhausting the full 1.106 million metric ton (MT) annual safeguard allocation.

Under the terms of Announcement No. 87 of 2025, an additional tariff of 55% is imposed on top of the existing...

ANALYSIS: Japan's August 2026 Beef Imports Slide as Inventory Pressure Persists

Japan's beef imports totaled 38,686 MT in August 2026, down 10.9% month-on-month (MOM), or 4,755 MT, and 10.5% year-on-year (YOY), or 4,536 MT, according to Trade Statistics of Japan data.

The August result extended the slowdown in Japan's beef imports, with YOY volumes falling in three of the four months from May through August. The contraction also deepened from July, when imports were down 7.5% YOY.

Year-to-date (YTD) imports through August reached 329,588 MT, up...

ANALYSIS: Grinding Substitution Fades as Peeled Knuckles Trade at a Premium to Fresh 90s Trim 

The peeled knuckles market runs close to that of the 90s trim market due to the ability to grind this cut into 90% lean material. During periods when 90s trim is at a premium to peeled knuckles, some market participants opt to shift peeled knuckles into grinding material. So far this year, the weekly average peeled knuckles value has only crossed below the 90s price once, but it remained below for roughly a month. Looking to 2025, peeled knuckles dipped below only twice, once for...

ANALYSIS: Quotas, Bans, and Tariffs - The New Rules Reshaping Global Beef Trade

Global beef trade flows are undergoing significant changes as import policies evolve across the EU, China and the US, according to industry reports.

China, the world’s largest beef importer, has introduced new country-specific beef quotas. Imports outside these quotas will be subject to a 55% tariff, while quota allowances are expected to increase gradually each year. The policy is likely to have a material impact on exporters and could further reshape global beef trade flows as suppliers adjust to changing market access and tariff conditions...

Value, Convenience Drive Restaurant Choice as Consumers Pull Back on Spending

Restaurant operators may be seeing modest improvement in consumer spending, but diners remain highly price-conscious and increasingly selective about where and how they spend. A new report from Popmenu found U.S. consumers are spending an average of $100 per week on restaurants, up from earlier in 2026 but still $15 below June 2025 levels.

The report underscores a key challenge for operators: consumers still want to dine out, but they are actively looking for ways to spend less. According to Popmenu...

Common Cents Act Clears Congress, Giving Restaurants a Federal Cash-Rounding Framework

The penny’s days as a working part of the US cash register are nearing an end, and restaurants are getting a clearer set of rules for dealing with the change.

The Senate passed H.R. 10167, the “Common Cents Act,” on Sept. 28, sending the legislation to President Trump for his signature. The bill would formally end production of pennies for general circulation and establish a federal framework for rounding cash transactions when exact change is unavailable.

For restaurant operators, the legislation provides some...

The Retail Rundown: Pork Finds Its October Opportunity

October is National Pork Month, and this year’s celebration comes at an important time for the pork industry. While the fall buying period provides a marketing hook, tighter hog supplies may be an even more important factor shaping the market.

A smaller hog inventory, steady-to-lower slaughter levels, and attractive prices on select cuts give retailers several reasons to feature pork.

The latest USDA Hogs and Pigs report puts the September 1 US hog and pig inventory at 74.3 million head, about 2% below a year earlier. Market hog inventories were also down about 2%, while the breeding herd was smaller. 

The industry enters the fall with a smaller supply base and limited signs of near-term expansion. While pork remains readily...

Expana Exclusive: Supplying 46,000+ Restaurants in Complex Context - McDonald's Supply Chain Leader

Darcy Gilbert, Vice President of Global Food and Beverage Sourcing at McDonald's, leads a global team accountable for overseeing approximately $30 billion in annual spend across 46,000+ restaurants in 100+ markets, and a global network of supplier partners. At its heart, the team’s job is making sure the food customers love shows up in every restaurant, every day. Yet navigating such a vast system in a fast-changing world requires far more than simply leveraging scale.

In an exclusive interview ahead of her appearance...

Hormel Foods Announces Definitive Agreement To Acquire Brakebush, A Value-Added Chicken Company

Hormel Foods Corporation (NYSE: HRL), a Fortune 500 global branded food company, today announced it has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Brakebush Brothers, LLC, a leading value-added chicken company, from the Brakebush family.

The purchase price is approximately $1.055 billion, and the transaction is expected to close during the first quarter of Hormel Foods' fiscal 2027, subject to customary closing conditions, including regulatory approval.

The acquisition advances Hormel Foods' strategy of investing in growing protein categories, will meaningfully expand the company's position in value-added chicken and is expected to strengthen its leading Foodservice platform through...

USDA Increases Investment in Regenerative Pilot Program to Lower Farmer Production Costs 

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced increased financial assistance for the Regenerative Pilot Program from $700 million to $1 billion in fiscal year 2027, providing more producers with the opportunity to adopt conservation systems that improve soil health, water quality, and long-term farm resilience. Producers can now apply for assistance with regenerative practices.

Additionally, USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) is making improvements to the program, including using NRCS’s locally led conservation model to allow State Technical Advisory Committees to add conservation practices that reflect local...

Common Cents Act Clears Congress, Delivering Key Victory for Restaurant Operators

Last night, the Senate passed the Common Cents Act, sending the bill to President Trump for his signature. The vote follows months of advocacy by the National Restaurant Association to address concerns about impact the penny phaseout was having on consumers and business owners.

The Association worked closely with both houses of Congress on the bill that establishes a set of rounding principles for when exact change isn't available in a cash transaction and provides a safe harbor from liability for business owners who follow those principles...

Secretary Rollins Congratulates Luke Lindberg on World Food Programme Appointment

Today, U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins congratulated Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs Luke Lindberg on his appointment as Executive Director of the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) and welcomed President Donald J. Trump’s nomination of Greg Ibach to serve as the next Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs.

“Luke Lindberg has been a tremendous friend and partner in our mission to deliver for America’s farmers and ranchers. With his help, the Trump Administration had cut the agricultural trade deficit by 51%, helped deliver...

OpenTable's Inaugural US Restaurant Impact Report Reveals Why Restaurants Matter More Than Ever

For more than 28 years, OpenTable has worked alongside restaurants to help them fill tables, connect with diners, and grow their businesses. Today, the global restaurant tech platform which seats 2 billion diners annually is putting restaurants in the spotlight with the release of its first U.S. Restaurant Impact Report: new research examining the vital role restaurants play in local economies, communities, and everyday life, and the role diners play in supporting the dining ecosystem.

With U.S. dining up 11% year-over-year¹ at OpenTable restaurants, that impact is only growing. Full tables can...

Four Weeks In: Assessing the Market Response to the Expanded Beef Tariff-Rate Quota

Four weeks after the September 1 launch of the United States’ temporary 300,000 metric ton (MT) beef tariff-rate quota expansion, market data have so far provided limited evidence of a broad consumer-price response associated with the additional tariff-free import volume.

Below, Expana examines the market’s reaction to date and highlights key watchpoints for the weeks ahead.

Wholesale and Producer Prices Move Modestly Lower

The US boxed beef cutout (Choice, 600/900 total carcass value) has traded in a narrow band since the September 1 effective date, moving from $3.70/lb to $3.66/lb as of September 25...

ANALYSIS: October Seasonality—US Domestic Boneless Beef vs. Imported Beef

Over ten years, the pattern is that October prices the domestic lean market below September without exception, while fat trim recovers within the month from a depressed base, and imported lean does very little at all. October is a weaker month than September for domestic 90s on the measure that matters most for cost, and a far more volatile one for fats. 

Throughout this report the four series are referred to by name: fresh 90s and fresh 50s for the two US domestic chemical lean items, Aust/NZ blend cow 90% and Brazil 90% for the two imported items. Codes appear...

Utz Enters Protein-Forward Snacking with New Pretzel and Cheese Curl Lines

On September 24, leaders at Utz Brands launched a new protein-forward snack lineup, marking the salty snacks manufacturer's first move into the fast-growing, high-protein category. The Hanover, Pennsylvania-based company unveiled Utz Protein Pretzels and Protein Cheese Curls, each delivering 8-10 grams of protein per serving, according to a company release.

Born From Bold Flavor, Popeyes® Announces their Latest Chicken Sandwich Innovation

As a Real Louisiana Kitchen, Popeyes® doesn't just serve bold flavor, it's the authority on it. Popeyes' culinary team is always looking for new ways to bring bold flavors together, and they saw an opportunity to combine some of the menu's most beloved staples in an entirely new way. It's no surprise fans have long found their own ways to combine the brand's signature chicken and biscuits with honey on social media; but now, Popeyes is putting its culinary expertise behind that...

Firehouse Subs® Brings Back Its Fan-Favorite Thanksgiving Turkey Sub

The wait is over. Firehouse Subs®, the firefighter-founded restaurant brand known for its hot, hearty subs, is bringing back the fan-favorite Thanksgiving Turkey Sub to participating restaurants nationwide. After selling out across the country last year, the Thanksgiving feast-inspired sub returns by popular demand and is available now through the end of December, while supplies last, joined by a new seasonal treat: the Pecan Bar.

The Thanksgiving Turkey Sub is piled high with tender carved turkey breast, warm stuffing...

McLane Company Earns Fourth Consecutive Service Provider of the Year Award from 7-Eleven Franchisees

McLane Company, Inc., one of the largest distributors in America and a leading supply chain partner to retail and restaurant brands, is proud to announce it has been named Service Provider of the Year by the National Coalition of Associations of 7-Eleven Franchisees (NCASEF) for the fourth consecutive year.

Presented at the NCASEF National Trade Show in July, the award recognizes service providers that consistently deliver exceptional support, value and partnership to 7-Eleven franchisees. McLane’s recognition reflects its...

Perkins Restaurant & Bakery Invites Families to Stay and Play with Limited Edition Mahjong Set

Perkins Restaurant & Bakery, the iconic family-dining restaurant known for homestyle meals, all day value, and its iconic bakery, is inviting guests to linger a little longer with the launch of a limited-edition Perkins Mahjong set.

Inspired by the Perkins experience and the traditions that have brought families together around its tables for 60 years, the exclusive set puts a Perkins inspired spin on one of the world’s most beloved tabletop games. Designed for both longtime Mahjong players and those discovering the game...

Demand Signals Report: Unlock CPG, Consumer Behavior Insights

Circana's Demand Signals report provides a comprehensive picture of how shifting consumer behavior impacts the U.S. consumer packaged goods sector. Gain timely, data-backed insights that help support critical business decisions.

Key highlights from this period's report:

Consumer confidence drops on rising energy costs, while higher interest rates may add pressure ahead. Consumer confidence declined again in early September, its second consecutive monthly drop. Although August CPI held steady at 3.4%, gas prices have risen sharply in September and are back near the peaks...

CNBC/NRF Retail Monitor Shows 11th Month of Sales Growth in August

Retail sales rose modestly in August, marking the 11th consecutive month of gains, according to the CNBC/NRF Retail Monitor, powered by Affinity Solutions, released today [September 25, 2026] by the National Retail Federation.

"Retail sales climbed steadily once again in August," NRF President and CEO Matthew Shay said. "Supported by low unemployment and steady wage gains, households remained budget-conscious but took full advantage of back-to-school promotions to stretch their dollars. Retailers stayed committed to affordability, keeping everyday products accessible for American families."

Total retail sales, excluding automobile dealers and gasoline stations, were up 0.22% seasonally...

Expana's Weekly Top 10

This week’s Top 10 stories highlight the global forces shaping food, agriculture, and trade markets, from rising tariff tensions and geopolitical risk to supply chain disruptions, fertilizer supply moves, and shifting protein demand. Together, these developments underscore how policy, weather, logistics, and consumer trends continue to influence market conditions across the food and commodity landscape.

Trade & Policy

10. Trade tensions are back in focus ahead of the Sept. 24 Trump-Xi summit, with a possible new Section 301 tariff on China under discussion and the current trade truce extended by two...

Butterball® Togetherness Report™ Reveals 2026 Thanksgiving Outlook

Butterball, LLC, the company known for the most recognized and loved* turkey brand in the U.S., today announced the findings of the 2026 Butterball Togetherness Report, which explores how hosts and guests plan to shop, cook and celebrate this Thanksgiving.

The annual holiday report reveals that 85% of consumers plan to celebrate Thanksgiving this year, with an anticipated celebration size of 10 people. Hosts are holding on to their traditions, with most saying even higher costs won't change their plans. Consumers are looking forward to spending time with family...

UK Weighs Second Wave of Cost-of-Living Tariff Suspensions on Food, Fertilizer, and Kerosene

Amid consumer price pressure from the Middle East conflict, the UK government has moved on two fronts to suspend import tariffs on selected goods. The first package, announced April 30 and implemented June 21, 2026, removed duties on select fruits, fruit juices, pasta, couscous, and tuna which is in effect now, through December 31, 2028, according to a UK government update...