Normal is near, industry believes
Produce industry leaders think that the complete lifting of COVID-19 restrictions for restaurants and social gatherings is the best indication that foodservice business will return to pre-pandemic levels.
In answer to the question, “In your region, when do you think your foodservice business will reach pre-pandemic levels?” responses were:
“As areas open up the business seems to go back to pre-pandemic level or better. So when things open completely is my answer,” said Dan Sands, senior manager for produce at US Foods, Portland, Ore.
“I feel as we go through these summer months customers will regain confidence,” said Vince Mastromauro, director of produce procurement for Chicago-based Sunset Foods.
“Once the mask mandate is removed and the capacity limit is lifted, foodservice business should reach pre-pandemic levels, said Kyle Griffith, sales manager with Hollandia Produce LP, Carpinteria, Calif.
Other responses to the question about when foodservice business will return to normal were:
- August;
- Twelve months;
- July;
- One month;
- Next June, maybe; and
- June 2022.
