Miedema Produce looks for strong shipping season

A great shipping season is anticipated for Miedema Produce Inc., Hudsonville, Mich., said Todd Miedema, co-owner.

Miedema Produce is the largest grower, packer and shipper of fresh radishes in North America, he said, and the firm also specializes in carrots, parsnips, turnips, beets and a full line of fresh vegetables.

“2021 is off to a great start and we will have good supplies available at the start of the Michigan season,” he said.

Conditions have been on the dry side, but Miedema said recent rains have helped.

“Availability will be good throughout the summer shipping season,” he said in late May.

None of the company’s crop is currently organic, and Miedema sees no immediate change in that reality. 

With the pool of available workers limited, he said the company is focused on labor-saving automation at every level. 

Retail sales were elevated during the pandemic, Miedema said foodservice sales are now increasing with the opening up of the economy.

Retailers can maximize sales of Michigan produce this year, he said. by working with growers to effectively market crops, especially with promotions and ad pricing at certain times of the year.