Specialty food makers and retailers were challenged during the last year as supply chain interruptions and labor shortages limited the efficiency with which they ran their businesses. Coming off of nearly a full year that required pivots related to the global pandemic, makers and retailers continued to employ inventive ways to keep up with consumer demand.
Ecommerce opportunities were a bright spot, of which specialty food stakeholders took full advantage. Technology advances continue to improve the speed and accuracy with which orders are fulfilled. Another major story which is still unfolding, is related to OSHA’s Emergency Temporary Standard to minimize the risk of COVID transmission in the workplace.
Following is a more in-depth look at these trends, events, and movements of 2021:
• Supply Chain Interruptions Stall Specialty Makers, Retailers
• Vaccine Mandate Creates Uncertainty for Employers
• Delivery Technology Advances in 2021
• Food Makers, Retailers Feel Labor Crunch
Related: 5 Specialty Food Trend Predictions From the SFA Trendspotter Panel; Top Cheese Trends to Watch in 2022.