Practical Advice from Dr. Gloom & The Grim Reaper
Peter Konjoian and Thomas Ford met at the University of Maryland many years ago. They reconnected over Thomas’ recent article in E-Gro, titled Emerging Threat to Greenhouse Profitability and it is Not a Pest or Disease. He was referring to higher costs of production and supply chain disruptions that have left growers with the basic supplies they need for their operation. While business topics are not popular among many growers, Thomas felt it was time to sound the alarm. Some growers are seeing cost of production increase by 60% over last year, and still, they resist raising their prices.
The pandemic forced growers to pivot quickly. Now, after two years of good returns, these continued disruptions are forcing major changes in the industry. Who would have thought the most valuable person on the farm or in the greenhouse was the sourcing specialist?
Contact Thomas Ford: tgf2@psu.edu
