Cancel OK

Future Forward

Thoughts and predictions on 2015 from throughout the industry
Front Feature

ACROSS THE INDUSTRY: Game Changers
W hat one word would you choose to describe the fresh produce industry in 2015?

Douglas H. Fisher, 
New Jersey Secretary of Agriculture
The one word that describes the fresh produce industry in 2015 is diversification. New Jersey’s produce farmers are known for growing multiple crops. It’s said that retailers could fill all their produce-aisle needs with just a few farm stops in the Garden State. These days, it’s not just mass-produced quantities of fruits and vegetables associated with New Jersey; today, we’re likely to see growers dedicating micro portions of their operations to highly specific kinds of peppers or ethnic vegetables or fruits that a local restaurant or retailer requests. Continuing to diversify, catering to a changing palate—that’s key for 2015.

Jerry Butt, president & CEO
MIXTEC Group
An apt word to describe the fresh produce industry in 2015 is sophistication. Companies are growing, our global marketplace is expanding, and new technological advancements are changing the way we operate. Consolidation and private equity firm involvement continue to be additional factors in creating larger organizations. Doing business today is more complex than ever; as a result, companies are facing these challenges utilizing higher levels of talent, outside expertise, and new professional practices from within the produce industry as well as seeking innovation externally.

Lori Taylor (aka ‘The Produce Mom’),
consumer consulting manager
Indianapolis Fruit Company
There is no greater word to describe the fresh produce industry right now than progressive. As world food demand increases, resources decrease, and technology evolves, everyone in the supply chain is challenged to be broadminded. Consumers are so connected and social media allows audiences to be ambassadors. It’s really inspiring to see our growers and shippers embrace the digital age. Moms want to know the story of the products we’re purchasing for our households. No industry has more culture behind the goods produced. The values of agriculture should never change: this industry is honest, wholesome, and hardworking. It’s truly heartwarming to join forces with brands as they advance their means of communication and sales tactics with today’s consumers. Progressive marketing is a gateway to our industry’s sustainable future.

In a recent study on the rising demand for broccoli, Gomez and his colleagues researched the costs and production challenges of growing outside of California and Arizona, which produce 85 to 90 percent of domestic broccoli. And although it is certainly more costly to grow broccoli on the East Coast, expenses can be offset by reduced shipping costs. “If you have the right varieties, you can start in the winter, generally in Florida, and move to Georgia, South Carolina, Virginia, and Maine in the fall—a system able to offer produce year round.”

Twitter