Freshly Picked, May 12, 2026

Freshly Picked Insights

• The More Locations You Add, The Harder Purchasing Gets
• And Big Match Days Only Add More Pressure Across Operations
• Meanwhile, Operators Are Spending More Without Getting More Product

Produce

Lettuce, onions, and tomatoes remained the most volatile produce categories last week. Onion markets showed signs of leveling off sooner than expected, while iceberg lettuce prices remain elevated with limited near-term supply relief. Tomato supplies are beginning to improve, though pricing pressures have not fully eased yet.

Outlook: Produce volatility should gradually improve as May progresses, but operators with multiple locations should continue monitoring regional availability and maintaining flexibility around produce-heavy menu items and promotions.

Grains

Corn, soybean, and wheat markets all moved lower last week as geopolitical fertilizer concerns eased. Wheat markets declined despite ongoing concerns surrounding lower yields and crop abandonment in Kansas. Market volatility remains elevated as traders continue reacting to both weather conditions and global developments.

Outlook: Grain markets may remain highly reactive through planting and harvest season. Operators should continue watching wheat closely, as any confirmed crop deterioration could quickly reverse recent price declines.

Dairy

Most dairy markets softened slightly last week, led by butter, while nonfat dry milk continued climbing despite weakening export demand signals. Domestic pricing premiums remain historically elevated compared to global markets, which may eventually slow export movement further into summer.

Outlook: Butter and broader dairy markets may remain relatively stable near term, but nonfat dry milk could see additional volatility if export demand continues cooling. Multi-unit operators should continue monitoring dairy-heavy menu categories closely heading into summer demand periods.

Beef

Beef production continues trending lower as cattle availability tightens and packer margins remain pressured. Premium grilling cuts like loins and ribs strengthened again last week as seasonal demand builds, while trim markets reached new record-high averages. At the same time, imported lean beef volumes surged to record levels, helping support ground beef supply.

Outlook: Operators should continue planning for elevated beef pricing through grilling season, especially on premium cuts and trim. Imported lean beef may help stabilize some burger programs, but broader beef market volatility is likely to continue throughout Q2.

Pork

Pork production improved modestly last week and remains relatively stable overall despite slightly lower hog slaughter rates. Pork belly pricing dropped sharply, creating potential value opportunities, while ribs and butts moved notably higher as seasonal demand strengthened. Historical trends suggest seasonal pork pricing gains may be more muted this year due to relatively stable supply levels.

Outlook: Pork should continue offering more manageable cost opportunities compared to beef this summer, though operators may still see upward pressure on high-demand grilling items like ribs and butts. Bellies may present strategic promotional opportunities for some concepts.

Poultry

Chicken supplies continue to expand, with production up both week-over-week and year-over-year, keeping pressure on key categories like breasts and wings. Thigh meat continues commanding historically strong premiums over breast meat, while egg prices have fallen sharply as supply rebounds. Strong margins for major poultry producers are also fueling additional expansion plans across the industry.

Outlook: Multi-unit operators may continue seeing favorable contract opportunities on several chicken categories near term, particularly breasts and wings. However, sustained industry expansion could limit major seasonal price spikes while turkey breast markets remain firm.

Seafood

Grain markets may remain highly reactive through planting and harvest season. Operators should continue watching wheat closely, as any confirmed crop deterioration could quickly reverse recent price declines.

Outlook: Seafood markets, particularly cod, may remain elevated short term, but improving supply conditions later this year could create better purchasing opportunities for operators with seafood-forward menus.

Need Help Managing Market Volatility?

Consolidated Concepts offers custom contract support, commodity tracking, and supply chain solutions to help operators thrive—no matter the market conditions. Reach out to see how we can help your business stay ahead of pricing swings and supply uncertainty.