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From H-2A wage rules to state regulations, the produce industry says escalating labor costs are eating into grower profits and reshaping the future of specialty crop farming.

At the recent Washington Conference, panelist Rochelle Bohm of CMI Orchards warned the “exorbitant” fees associated with EPR compliance will quickly swallow up what little financial breathing room produce companies have left.

John Hollay of the National Council of Agriculture Employers says growers who once avoided the guest worker program as a financial headache see benefits to participation.

The company says that as blueberries continue to lead the category, jumbo varieties offer an opportunity for retailers to differentiate.

New kits capitalize on the popularity of ranch flavor to create quick, family-friendly and convenient dishes.

Ultra-fast delivery and sub-same-day ship-to-home of fresh groceries have accelerated online demand, posing a threat to traditional grocers who don’t find growth opportunities.

The report highlights a milestone year of record-breaking growth, featuring a 21% increase in organic produce volume alongside measurable advancements in natural pest management, plastic reduction, employee well-being and fair trade community investments.

A devastating April freeze has pushed back the start of some late-spring and summer crops out of the Northeast, including the New York-New Jersey-Connecticut tristate area, and will impact supplies of a number of commodities.

A seventh-generation farmer, Dake has more than a decade of experience spanning produce marketing, public affairs, industry advocacy, organizational management and business development.