Against a trying backdrop of persistently weak economic conditions, fierce competition and financially wary shoppers, supermarket produce departments faced much harsher headwinds during the past 12- month period than they have in recent years, as evidenced by marginal comparable-sales gains and a tentative outlook for the balance of the year, according to results of Progressive Grocer's 2009 Annual Produce Operations Review. "Uphill Climb" is a is a seven-page .pdf with 14 charts and sidebars — many featuring exclusive PG research — on such crucial issues as top challenges confronting the section, the effect of the recession on sales of organic produce, and the latest fruit and vegetable trends. To purchase the report, click here.