ATLANTA (July 28, 2025) – The National Peanut Board (NPB) held its July board and committee meetings July 8–9, 2025, at the Kimpton Hotel Arras in Asheville, North Carolina, where board members unanimously approved the proposed fiscal year 2026 (FY-26) Program of Work and budget. The meetings brought together NPB leadership, staff, and stakeholders for strategic discussions, planning sessions and a community service project.
The FY-26 Program of Work and budget presentation, developed by NPB staff and informed by extensive stakeholder input, outlines NPB’s investments in promotion, research and education designed to support U.S. peanut farmers and increase demand for peanuts and peanut products.
Exciting developments include:
- Establish a game-changing commodity brand for the peanut industry
- Boldly target the influential Gen Z consumer
- Continue to drive adoption of peanut allergy prevention through Little Peanut
- Get peanuts back on school and campus menus through Something’s Missing
- Push the bounds of thought leadership with strategic messaging pillars
- Develop stronger and more targeted storytelling to stakeholders
“This is where strategic planning meets execution,” said NPB Chair and Georgia peanut farmer Casey Cox Kerr. “Through these sessions, we ensure we are delivering real value to growers and staying responsive to consumer and industry needs. The Board's unanimous vote reflects the strength and clarity of our shared direction for the year ahead,” Cox Kerr continued.
The Board’s approval of the $13,420,000 FY-26 budget reaffirms NPB’s continued commitment to enhancing the economic well-being of U.S. peanut growers by funding forward-looking research, championing peanut nutrition, and reaching multiple consumer audiences with innovative marketing programs.
In addition to business sessions, NPB staff, board members and their families also participated in a hands-on community service activity. Partnering with sandwich chain Which Wich, the group made and donated more than 400 peanut butter and jelly sandwiches to a local Meals on Wheels organization in Asheville.
“Giving back to the community is always a highlight of our time together,” said Ryan Lepicier, NPB President & CEO. “This year’s activity reminded us why our work matters; we’re connecting people through food, supporting nutrition and fostering community. I’m proud of our team and the direction we’re headed in FY-26,” he said.
The FY-26 Program of Work and budget will be reviewed and approved by USDA. NPB’s FY-26 fiscal year begins November 1, 2025, and ends October 31, 2026.
For more information about the National Peanut Board and its programs, visit www.nationalpeanutboard.org.
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About the National Peanut Board
The National Peanut Board represents USA peanut farmers and their families. Through research and marketing initiatives the Board is finding new ways to enhance production and increase consumer demand by promoting the great taste, nutrition and culinary versatility of USA-grown peanuts. For more information about the Board, visit www.nationalpeanutboard.org.