The Retail Rundown: The 2026 Labor Day Grill Balances Value and Variety

Labor Day weekend is nearly here, and retailers are putting grilling favorites front and center for one last major cookout of summer. The 2026 holiday protein mix offers plenty of variety, but pricing is influencing how shoppers build their menus, with value particularly important across meat and poultry.

Despite higher prices, beef remains a centerpiece of the backyard cookout, with retailers featuring ground beef alongside strip, sirloin, porterhouse, and other steaks, as well as roast cuts such as top round.

Recent Circana data highlights the continued price pressure...

SADC Ministers to Focus on Food Security, Livestock Disease and Blue Economy at Zimbabwe Summit

Southern African ministers overseeing agriculture, fisheries, aquaculture and food security will gather in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, on May 29 for regional talks expected to center on climate resilience, food production challenges and efforts to strengthen the blue economy.

The high-level gathering comes as several countries in the Southern African Development Community (SADC) continue to face pressure from climate variability, livestock disease outbreaks and ongoing concerns over regional food security.

Among the key issues expected to receive attention are recent...

The Retail Rundown: Spring Demand Builds as Easter and Grilling Season Approach

Following an extended winter in some areas and disruptive weather in others, sentiment across the food industry is beginning to shift in a more optimistic direction.

As spring approaches, many retailers are counting on a release of pent-up demand, with consumers eager to refresh their routines. The seasonal reset could translate into more frequent dining occasions, while retailers are positioned to benefit from the return of backyard cooking and holiday gatherings.

With Easter now under three weeks away, the calendar itself is acting as a demand catalyst, pulling forward promotional activity and shaping merchandising strategies...