Despite media coverage and plenty of talk about organics, receivers say Mid-west consumers are still sorting out their preferences. “We’ve seen a bigger increase in organic fruit than vegetables,” observes Rocky Produce’s Russo.
F is for the Future
In the Midwest, buyers and sellers throughout the fresh produce supply chain are looking to the future, in myriad ways. Demand for local, as well as fresh-cut and value-added product are likely to rise in all the markets discussed here. Organics, which some growers believe represent the future and answer consumers’ calls for sustainability and accountability, will make incremental gains.
For receivers, it’s the continual dance to shore up existing relationships and seek new trading partners to maintain retail market share. “Retail has always been highly competitive,” comments Comito. “Our goal is to provide value to our customers by helping make their supply chain more efficient.”
So there you have it—efficiency, sustainability, and giving customers what they want will continue to drive the Midwest perishables supply chain forward.
Images: Mark R. Coons, HodagMedia/Shutterstock.com
