Tag: produce blueprints

It’s quite remarkable how online shopping has become a significant part of the total retail food shopping experience. It’s a validation of the point that convenience is one of the principal motivators in influencing consumer behavior.

One area of innovation with plenty of untapped potential for the entire industry is data tracking and integration.

After years of investment, controlled environment agriculture (CEA) is now projected to reach more than $172 billion in 2025, according to KD Market Insights, up from over $74 billion in 2020.

For many consumers, the sustainability message has become increasingly important.

On the retail side, shortages on shelves are a lingering concern.

Foodservice has come back to a large degree since the Covid lockdowns, with some exceptions.

Storytelling is part of the process of creating an emotional connection, and companies such as Naturipe Farms, Sage Fruit Company, LLC, SunFed, Chelan Fresh Marketing, and NatureSweet, Ltd. are among the companies telling consumers how their produce is grown and putting the spotlight on the people behind it.

Much attention has been given to how to increase fruit and vegetable consumption. It’s not a new problem but a recurring issue, despite the efforts of many.

Finding enough quality workers has been a concern throughout the fresh produce pipeline. The pandemic made that situation worse, as many people quit the workforce in general, leading to an increase in wages and greater competition across industries.

Inflation is causing suppliers to look for ways to reduce costs in any way possible, from altering product lineups to forging new alliances.