Why the Value of Greenhouse Produce Has Increased During COVID-19 ?
Hundreds of industries confront new challenges as the coronavirus pandemic spreads, and the greenhouse industry is no different. We know greenhouse growers are bound to thrive through and beyond this temporary crisis.
The change in demand for greenhouse industry products
In any widespread crisis, the first and most obvious effect on any industry is a sudden shift in demand. And for those in the greenhouse industry, demand depends on what they grow.
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Shipping and distribution challenges
In many cases, the problems faced by the greenhouse industry are not related to customer demand. It’s the challenge of getting products from the greenhouse and into the hands of the buyers. Many growers have lost distribution in stores that are either cutting back on stock or closing their doors entirely.
Meanwhile, the demand for truck companies has skyrocketed. As fewer people leave their homes for errands and purchases, shipping is at an all-time high. And as consumers ransack groceries stores and retailers, those businesses require constant shipments to replenish their shelves.
As a result, many growers in the greenhouse industry find themselves struggling just to send their stock out there. Fortunately, many who face shipping delays are adapting, using lower temperatures and PGR sprays to keep their crop in prime condition.
The rise of automation
Like most other businesses, the greenhouse industry has seen some difficult layoffs. And it isn’t just a matter of financial need. Greenhouses with larger staffs cannot risk putting employees in close proximity to one another. In an effort to comply with social distancing standards, some growers have had to reduce the size of their team. As a result, the greenhouse industry may start looking toward automation to maintain productivity with fewer workers.
Disruption in the supply chain
Many growers now struggle to find the materials they need to function at full capacity. With some suppliers closed and others short-staffed, the greenhouse industry supply chain has a few weak links.
We see this challenge especially in LED lighting and other areas that have traditionally depended on Chinese manufacturing. On the plus side, this is a great time for growers to put their support behind American-made products. California LightWorks is still up and running, producing supplemental LED greenhouse lighting right here in the U.S.
Good news for the greenhouse industry
While the greenhouse industry is, indeed, navigating new challenges, there are a few bright points. Regardless of wavering demand, the truth is that growers provide an essential service. From nourishing our families to healing our bodies, the greenhouse industry cultivates products we literally cannot live without.