Craig Carlson talks industry adjustments - Packer Interview

The Packer’s Tom Karst spoke on March 30 with Craig Carlson, CEO of Chicago-based Carlson Produce Consulting, LLC.

Carlson shared his insight on consumer behavior, retail performance and wholesaler adjustments caused by the coronavirus COVID-19 pandemic.

“We are in unprecedented times, and the produce supply chain has been challenged at every level,” Carlson said, adding that the industry may never be the same again

“The biggest problems that I’m hearing from the retailer’s standpoint is their distribution centers, getting in trucks and unloaded and getting product picked, packed and distributed to their stores,” he said.

Meanwhile, Carlson said wholesalers are adjusting to the new market realities, noting that some have formed partnerships with retailers.

“Going forward, hopefully, we’ll have a much more diversified wholesale business models and protect these companies,” he said.

 

Packer COVID-19 updates

 

 

 

Latest News

Tops Friendly Markets acquires 5 stores from franchisee
Tops Friendly Markets acquires 5 stores from franchisee

The Williamsville, N.Y.-based grocer has acquired five store locations that had been owned and operated by Supermarket Management, Inc., one of the company’s longstanding franchise partners.

Seen and heard at CPMA 2024 — Part 3
Seen and heard at CPMA 2024 — Part 3

Exhibitors at the Canadian Produce Marketing Association Conference and Trade Show talked about upcoming seasons, renewed connections and new packaging during the event held April 23-25.

Idaho Potato Commission adds Northeast/Midwest retail promotion director
Idaho Potato Commission adds Northeast/Midwest retail promotion director

Matt Zapczynski brings experience as a produce buyer for a wholesale grocery distributor.

California Strawberry Commission hosts legislative event celebrating National Strawberry Month
California Strawberry Commission hosts legislative event celebrating National Strawberry Month

The California Strawberry Commission convened its annual legislative reception, fostering dialogue between growers and legislators.

Sunsweet Growers names new CEO
Sunsweet Growers names new CEO

Brad Schuler, a 25-year veteran of the global brand, to helm the global company and see the introduction of enterprise software with AI capabilities, new production assets and more.

Schnucks Markets recognized for workplace diversity
Schnucks Markets recognized for workplace diversity

Schnucks Markets named one of "America’s Greatest Workplaces for Diversity 2024" by Newsweek and Plant-A Insights.