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Want to know what’s new in the fresh produce industry? Attendees of the SEPC’s Southern Innovations trade show and conference at the Gaylord Opryland Resort and Convention Center in Tenn., are about to see firsthand.

Wish Farms California is present in all the main strawberry growing regions of Oxnard, Santa Maria and Salinas, said Nick Wishnatzki, public relations manager for Plant City, Fla.-based Wish Farms.

Rising costs and tight labor are two big challenges for strawberry growers, but marketers also see reason for optimism.

After a year of strong fresh potato prices, Washington potato marketers are looking at a favorable new crop outlook and strong demand for both processing and fresh potato supplies.

Oregon potato acreage stayed in a range from 42,000 to 45,000 acres from 2019 through 2021, according to USDA estimates.

Besides maximizing domestic sales, Wisconsin potato marketers are looking to expand markets in Mexico and Canada, says Dana Rady.

Bushmans’ Inc. expects stable acreage for 2022, said Mike Carter, CEO of Rosholt, Wis.-based marketer.

The Wisconsin potato outlook is relatively strong, but industry leaders say the crop is running a bit behind schedule.

For the first time , Oxnard, Calif.-based Bobalu Berries will ship fresh strawberries from California for the entire year, said Cindy Jewell, marketing representative.

Good growing weather is spurring on Southern California strawberry production for California Giant Berry Farms, said Kevin Dwyer, district manager for the Watsonville, Calif.-based marketer.