Conclusions
To stay ahead of the curve and keep thriving, those in the business have found that sustainable measures create efficiencies that go hand in hand with saving money and preserving both the environment and their industry. Research and technology are among the prime strengths of the industry—from developing better water conservation techniques to the thrilling development of specialty and proprietary varieties.
Effective marketing and product freshness also play a pivotal role. “We’re doing a lot more now with pre-marketing and pre-selling,” observes Pandol. Making sure harvested grapes spend little if any time in storage is key. And while berry size is important too, he thinks flavor is a bigger draw for American consumers. “Freshness and sweetness are more and more of a factor.”
Lucas sums the industry up this way: “If Mother Nature allows, as long as we don’t have big storms or freezes, we’ll continue to have the best and newest varieties, and the best production,” he reflects. And so far, those in the table grape business are brimming with pride over good yields, record breaking sales, and exciting new flavors.
