What single development changed the fresh produce industry the most in the past 25 years?

You can be sure there is more than one “correct” answer — but what would you say?

Thanks to all who completed the industry survey related to the publication of The Packer’s 125th anniversary edition, scheduled for later this year.

The survey is available here and we still are seeking more industry insights. The survey will help shape our editorial focus for the publication, as we look back 125 years and look forward to what comes next.

The survey has only 11 questions and takes about 15 minutes to complete.

Here’s a “sneak peek” at the one of the questions: What has been the single most important advancement in retail for fresh fruits and vegetables over the past 25 years?

Responses include:

• Implementation of standard Price Look-Up codes on fresh produce;
• Expansion of commodity selection;
• Bagged salads leading to larger out-of-store fresh-cut segment at retail;
• Genetic engineering and public education around the science of breeding fruits and vegetables;
• Food safety controls and taking more care to prevent cross contamination;
• Category management at all levels, truly showing us what items are selling the most/best versus relying on perception;
• Global supply;
• Food Safety Modernization Act and food safety;
• Increase in variety of produce on the shelf; and
• Recognition of the important role that the fresh produce department plays, not only for profit contribution, but for share of stomach and as a competitive advantage in the retail food space.

If you are like me, you agree all of the readers’ answers have the ring of truth. But is there an answer that is conspicuous by its absence? Take the online survey and make your voice heard. 

Other questions in the survey:

• What one improvement would make your business easier for the next 25 years?
• How has technology changed shipping produce in the past 25 years?
• How will produce retailing change in the next 25 years?
• How will the role of wholesale marketers and wholesalers evolve in the next 25 years?

Thanks for your participation in this, and I am looking forward to reading all of your responses.

Tom Karst is The Packer’s editor. E-mail him at tkarst@farmjournal.com.