Fresh produce sales continue to grow, with value-added vegetables, and meal prep options especially bolstering momentum, according to the United Fresh Produce Association's FreshFacts on Retail.

These are just a few of the trends the association covers in its latest issue, which delves into the developments of 2019's second quarter.

Beyond these topics, the issue also covers data on the sector's unit growth. This has slowed compared to other fresh departments and the grocery department, it notes.

Additionally, it reports that a variety of fruits and vegetables continue to influence overall organic growth. One reason for this is their appeal to health-conscious consumers, says United Fresh.

“At a time when the total store growth remains challenging, consumers’ demand for healthy and convenient eating options represents a unique growth opportunity for players in the retail and consumer packaged goods industry,” explains Miriam Wolk, United Fresh’s vice president, member services.

“Fresh food categories are favorably positioned to capitalize on both these trends.”

This quarter’s report features seasonal category deep dives on apples, celery, and brussel sprouts. What's more, it provides a comparison of 2018's fourth quarter versus 2017's fourth-quarter results, notes the association.

Moreover, the report looks at the top commodities purchased by families with children in their household.

In this way, the report can help companies plan for a successful Q4 2019, United Fresh says.

United Fresh's webinar to discuss forces behind current trends

As an added value, the United Fresh Retail-Foodservice Board and Nielsen Fresh are hosting a webinar on the report's highlights.

The webinar will occur Wednesday, August 14, at 2:00 EST and feature analysis from Matt Lally, Nielsen Fresh's associate director.

Additionally, it will give participants the opportunity to ask questions and gain a broader understanding of what may be driving current trends, says the association.

Jeff Cady, director of produce and floral at Tops Friendly Markets and United Fresh Retail-Foodservice board chairman, will moderate the webinar.

Registration for the event is available here. Meanwhile, the complete report can be downloaded free of charge for all United Fresh members here. Non-members can access it for US$50.