PortMiami also unveiled a fast access tunnel in 2014, connecting the port directly to the U.S. interstate highway system. These improvements are already proving to be extremely beneficial for produce businesses in the area. “We’re importing more through the Port of Miami now that these projects are finished,” confirms Cabrera.
Unprecedented Growth
In the past year, many Miami-based produce businesses have enjoyed extraordinary growth. “Business is up from last year,” comments Cabrera. “We project double-digit growth again for 2016.”
Business is also on the rise for Mr. Green’s Produce. “We’re still experiencing phenomenal growth, and we’re very excited,” enthuses Politis. Mr. Green’s recently celebrated its fourth anniversary with an open house. “As we enter our fifth year, we’re picking up market share and new clients, and we’re seeing a lot of acceptance in the Miami market.”
As Miami’s restaurant scene continues to evolve, this growth will likely continue. “We’re seeing a higher quality of restaurants in Miami, and the customer base—the people who are going to these restaurants—are much more sophisticated than they were a few years ago,” observes Politis. “Famous chefs from all over the world are opening restaurants here in Miami,” he notes, “and it’s good for everyone.”
Harvest Sensations, a grower-shipper and processor/repacker with facilities on both coasts, in Los Angeles and in South Florida, is also expanding with an eye to the future. “We’re opening a brand new 37,000-plus square foot state-of-the-art facility in Miami in February 2016,” says Doug Ranno, president of Harvest Sensations, which is one of the largest asparagus importers in the United States.
Harvest Sensations also specializes in French beans, snow and snap peas, various herbs, specialty produce, and a growing line of organics including value-added kale products. “We’re seeing growth in all categories, especially in organics. This year and next we expect continued steady growth in both our Los Angeles and Miami locations.”
Rough Seas
While many businesses are experiencing trmendous growth, things aren’t always smooth-sailing for Miami produce buyers and sellers. From weather issues to restrictive legislation, wholesalers and distributors in the region are still facing plenty of obstacles.
Weather Woes
Because many Miami businesses source from growers in Latin America, they have been impacted by drought, hurricanes, and other weather issues both in Florida and throughout Central and South America.
