Economic Storm Worsens for America’s Farmers

Severe weather, high expenses and global uncertainty are hitting farmers from all sides, squeezing them to the breaking point. Fifty-four agriculture groups laid out the challenges facing rural America in a letter to President Trump today.

The letter recognizes progress made last year in enhancing farm risk management tools and securing much-needed tax relief for farmers, but says additional resources are needed during these turbulent times, “As the administration considers a defense supplemental package in the coming weeks, we urge you to include much-needed market relief for America’s farmers...

Farmers Appreciate Focus on Supply Chain Issues

American Farm Bureau Federation President Zippy Duvall commented today on President Trump’s executive order to boost production of certain crop protection tools.

“AFBF appreciates the administration for affirming that food security is national security. Phosphate fertilizers and effective products reviewed and approved by the EPA enable farmers to protect the health of their crops while using fewer natural resources. A strong domestic supply chain reduces dependence on foreign imports and helps ensure continued access to tools that contribute to the success of farmers who grow the food and fiber America’s families rely on...

Import Cargo Volume Expected to See Year-Over-Year Drop During First Half of 2026

Import volume at the nation’s major container ports is expected to see a significant year-over-year decline during the first half of 2026 as the impact of tariffs continues, according to the Global Port Tracker report released today by the National Retail Federation and Hackett Associates.

“With tariffs still a matter of debate in the courts and in Congress, their effect on imports is being clearly seen,” NRF Vice President for Supply Chain and Customs Policy Jonathan Gold said. “The situation underscores the need...

Melting Pot Announces Strategic Expansion Across Canada, Targets Major Hubs for New Growth

Melting Pot, the 94-unit experiential fondue franchise, is launching a strategic push to expand its footprint across Canada. Following a surge in inquiries from Canada, specifically, and strong growth in 2025, including four new restaurants opened and three additional franchises awarded, Melting Pot is looking to build on that momentum. With an Edmonton location, which has been operating for over 15 years, the brand already has a flagship spot and has identified a key opportunity to build on that...

Executives from Kroger, Publix, Sysco and Walmart Join GS1 US Board of Governors

The GS1 US Board of Governors has elected four industry leaders to join the GS1 US Board: Benjamin Hamilton, vice president, supply chain planning, Kroger; Brad Oliver, senior vice president of product business development, Publix Super Markets, Inc.; Greg Keller, senior vice president, national accounts, Sysco, SYGMA, and Guest Worldwide; and Greg Cathey, senior vice president, transformation and innovation, Walmart. Additionally, Brian Dick, president and CEO, Golden State Foods, has been appointed vice chairman.

These executives comprise a cross-industry Board of Governors...