Description
Companies in this industry grow crops such as grain, oilseeds, tobacco, dry beans, potatoes, vegetables and melons, fruits and nuts, and floriculture. Major companies include Amaggi Exportação e Importação, Chiquita Brands International, Dole Food Company, Fresh Del Monte Produce, Sunkist Growers, and Total Produce.
Competitive Landscape
Demand is driven by federal agricultural policy programs, food consumption trends, and the grain and oilseed export market. The profitability of individual companies depends on maximizing crop yield and minimizing disease risk. Large companies have advantages in highly automated technologies and access to the latest in seed and crop technologies. Small operations can compete effectively by harvesting heirloom, non-genetically modified (GM), or specialty products.
Products, Operations & Technology
Major products are corn (32% of industry revenue); soybeans (18%); fruits, tree nuts, and berries (12%); and vegetables, melons, and potatoes (8%). Other major crops include wheat, cotton, and potatoes. Of all cropland farms, nearly 40% focus on grain, oilseed, or dry beans/peas; these farms account for 80% of all cropland revenue.