The National Provisioner

June 2026

Check out The National Provisioner's 2026 Process of the Year. Also for June, don't miss our special report on automation strategies expanding beyond labor replacement— and more!

2026 Processor of the Year: New Primal

Prime time for New Primal — meet our 2026 Processor of the Year

Meat stick brand’s early embrace of the clean-label meat snacks category compounds as the brand secures deals for expanded national retail distribution.

Fred Wilkinson

June 8, 2026

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New Primal’s investment in automated production enables embracing meat snacks' evolution from single-item sales to their growing presence in consumers’ pantries and kids’ lunchboxes.

Automation & Robotics Special Report

Automation strategies expand beyond labor replacement

Meat and poultry processors continue investing in automation, but flexibility, scalability and operational fit drive purchasing decisions.

Sammy Bredar

June 11, 2026

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Processors balance labor shortages, production demand, and SKU complexity with more targeted automation and AI-driven decision-making.

This stock image depicts a common drive-thru service interaction

Foodservice Report 2026

Makers of foodservice meat and poultry solutions listening to consumers and operators

Consumers’ embrace of meat in their diets holds key to adding value for foodservice proteins.

Fred Wilkinson

June 10, 2026

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People gotta eat – but they are increasingly looking for food-away-from-home value outside leading US restaurant chains.

two thick steaks grilling over an open flame

Category Report: Beef

What does ‘value’ mean to today’s beef consumer?

Beef consumers redefine value through versatility, quality and premium differentiation.

Sammy Bredar

June 19, 2026

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Despite elevated prices, the beef category sees strong growth as consumers prioritize protein, perceived value, and convenience.

a grocery store aisle from the perspective of someone pushing a shopping cart

Special Report: Co-Packing & Private-Label Opportunities

Processors large and small embrace co-packing opportunities

Private-label products can elevate meat and poultry beyond commodity positioning into premium, differentiated retail product offerings.

Fred Wilkinson

June 18, 2026

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Co‑branded products enable retailers to offer differentiated value, reinforce quality perception and keep the protein category engaging in a highly competitive perimeter environment.

Evergood Foods Old Fashioned Beef Frankfurters packaged in a 12 oz or 13 oz set of 5 links

Processor Profile: Evergood Sausage Co.

Evergood Sausage’s next chapter builds on 100 years of consistency

Evergood Sausage discusses its last 100 years, exploring how the company has adapted to changing market conditions while maintaining its brand identity.

Sammy Bredar

June 17, 2026

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San Francisco processor reflects on hardwood smoking, traditional production methods and maintaining product identity across generations.