COVID-19 CONCERNS KEEP SHIPPERS CAUTIOUS, PREPARED
Packing sheds are strictly following protocol suggestions resulting from the coronavirus pandemic, CPAC’s Jim Ehrlick emphasizes, with additional sanitation measures above what ongoing food safety regulations were already in place. Additional wash stations, protective masks, and disinfecting measures that exceed requirements have been implemented for assured worker safety.
“We’re struggling through the coronavirus, and every day seems to change,” notes Les Alderete, general manager, Skyline Potato Co., based in Center. A bright spot for the San Luis Valley was an increase in retail business in the spring, which helped move more volume during strong market prices. Ehrlich hastens to add that the stronger retail demand was accompanied with a crippled foodservice market. “I’ve heard predictions that at least 50% of the independent restaurants will eventually not make it.”
Aspen Produce LLC, in Center, has also implemented the additional protocol, according to Rick Ellithorpe, one of the principal owners. He predicts, “Most institutional business will be cut by 50%” because of the pandemic but will probably be replaced by a jump in retail trade.
Ehrlich continues, “When COVID hit, we were shipping 35% more potatoes than usual. I think people will continue to eat more at home. Adding to that are those who are working from home more.” He said the situation has made more people realize “that potatoes are very versatile — and nutritious.”
WHAT’S NEW IN THE SAN LUIS VALLEY
FARM FRESH DIRECT LLC, Monte Vista, CO
Farm Fresh Direct, one of the largest U.S. potato growers and shippers, completed several personnel changes in the sales and management desks as it celebrated its 20th season in business.
Industry veteran David Tonso assumed the role of operations manager when Lee Jackson retired in February after 45 years working in the San Luis Valley potato industry. Tonso has logged more than 35 years of experience in potato sales and management in the Valley, including ownership of Canon Potato Co., and salesman at Monte Vista’s division of Bancroft, WI-based RPE Inc.
Jere Metz, sales associate, retired in March after completing 43 years in the produce business in the Valley. Metz’s career included stints with Wright Bros. and American Potato, both in Monte Vista, before joining Farm Fresh.
Veronica Trujillo is now on the core sales team after a stint as a sales assistant. Trujillo has been with Farm Fresh 11 years and was in quality control and worked in the accounting department before transitioning to sales. More changes include the addition of Shawnery Roy, sales assistant, and Jeremy McComas, who is currently working in quality control but will take on additional duties, according to Tonso.
SKYLINE POTATO CO., Center, CO
The company has implemented additional measures to ensure the safety of employees at harvest and packing because of the concerns brought on by the COVID pandemic, according to Les Alderete, general manager of all operations. The company, which also harvests, packs, and ships lettuce in addition to its conventional and organic potato crops, retains a large labor pool. Relating to protocol during the pandemic, Alderete reports, “We started following the guidelines from the beginning, adding more wash stations and additional staff to help disinfect.”
Alderete adds that although the COVID-19 pandemic continues, he is optimistic the increase in retail demand resulting from more consumers eating at home will be maintained, helping move more San Luis Valley potatoes into the fresh market. Yet, he emphasizes, “Every day is a new day as we struggle through the coronavirus.”
COLORADO POTATO ADMINISTRATIVE COMMITTEE (CPAC), Monte Vista, CO
Jessica Crowther has been promoted to assistant director following the retirement of Linda Weyers, who was with CPAC for 26 years. Crowther will also continue to direct the committee’s marketing campaign. Administrative assistant Dianna Paulson will help coordinate CPAC’s efforts, with executive director Jim Ehrlich at the helm.
