Apple farmers in Western New York are confronting economic challenges as wholesale apple prices have decreased, impacting the viability of their operations. LynOaken Farms expressed concerns about its future, deciding to delay any decisions until the post-apple season period. The situation has led to Mayer Brothers Apple Products announcing 26 layoffs at their Barker bottling facility. Amidst these challenges, local U-pick farms are depending on community support for survival, grappling with increased labor costs, adverse weather conditions, and financial setbacks.
The U.S. Apple Association reported a decrease in the New York State apple crop to 28 million bushels in 2023, a reduction from the previous year. Wendy Oaks-Wilson from LynOaken Farms highlighted the rapid change in consumer preferences affecting the profitability of certain apple varieties, with some not being harvested at all. Meanwhile, Becker Farms in Gasport is leveraging its U-Pick model to maintain financial stability, relying on direct sales to consumers during the apple season.
Source: WKBW News