Tag: year ahead

The aging industry is another issue for companies to deal with. One source points out that farmers, on average, are about 60 years old in the United States, versus in their 40s in Brazil.

When it comes to labor, Daniel Scheitrum, assistant professor of agribusiness at California Polytechnic State University (Cal Poly) in San Luis Obispo, CA, believes automation will be key to tamping down prices and augmenting the workforce across the supply chain.

The slow recovery of discretionary spending, years after the pandemic, remains a challenge for the foodservice sector.

Many economic indicators improved in 2024. Inflation moderated, but high consumer prices, especially for food, and supplier costs, especially in labor, are ongoing issues for growers, retailers, and foodservice. 

“In 2024, the produce industry had some big wins in terms of sustainability and continuing to implement environmentally conscious practices,” notes Jim Roberts, president of sales for Naturipe Farms

When it comes to the weather, most everyone along the perishables pipeline has been affected in some way.

Convenience is always an enticement for consumers, and for those who are not particularly adept at cooking, value-added dishes and meal kits are a boon.

Consumers may know fruits and vegetables are healthy, but many don’t know what to do with them.

Growers and marketers have embraced the art of storytelling to get their messages out, but much more can be done on this front.

Getting consumers to eat more fruits and vegetables is always a focus for the industry. The food-as-medicine movement, increased storytelling, and product innovation are all working toward this goal.