Business Operations

In 2023 labor continues to be top-of-mind for the produce and floral industries!

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We have gathered perspectives
from our global members across the supply chain.

IFPA polled its members to determine their strategies and tactics for managing labor challenges. Labor continues to be top-of-mind for the produce and floral industries with labor's share of the cost of production being 38% for fruit and tree nut farms and 29% for vegetables and melons according to the USDA. IFPA's poll found our industries are updating hiring techniques and creating employee retention programs are at the center of their initiatives.

OUR GLOBAL MEMBERS IDENTIFIED

5 Ways the fresh produce industry is dealing with labor challenges

5 ways the industry is dealing with labor challenges: #1 Updating hiring techniques

Updating hiring
techniques

 

5 ways the industry is dealing with labor challenges: #2 Creating employee retention programs

Creating employee
retention programs

 

5 ways the industry is dealing with labor challenges: #3 Shifting & simplifying work

Shifting &
simplifying work

 

5 ways the industry is dealing with labor challenges: #4 Employing technology

Employing
technology

 

5 ways the industry is dealing with labor challenges: #5 Using temps & part timers

Using temps &
part timers

Updating hiring techniques

  1. Engaging local colleges
  2. Using H2A
  3. Increasing referral bonuses
  4. Streamlining hiring processes

 

Creating employee retention

  1. Modernizing remuneration & benefits
  2. Developing talent within
  3. Enhancing culture

 

Shifting & simplifying work

  1. Shifting roles to different countries
  2. Focusing on productivity
  3. Simplifying tasks

 

Employing technology

  1. Investing in mechanization
  2. Developing technology solutions

 

Using temps & part timers

  1. Using temp agencies
  2. Hiring contractors
  3. Hiring part timers

 

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