Skip to content
In today’s volatile economic climate, shifting trade policies and newly imposed tariffs are sending ripples through nearly every level of the food supply chain. For produce distributors like V. Marchese, these changes bring significant challenges—but also opportunities to innovate and better serve our partners in the food service industry.
What Are Tariffs and Why Do They Matter?
Tariffs are government-imposed taxes on imported goods. In the context of the produce industry, tariffs on fruits and vegetables sourced from countries like Mexico, Chile, and Canada can result in increased costs for U.S. distributors and their customers. These tariffs are often part of broader trade negotiations, but their immediate effect is simple: higher prices at the source, which can trickle down the entire supply chain, from growers to consumers.
How Tariffs Affect Produce Distributors Like V. Marchese
As a family-owned produce distributor serving the Midwest, V. Marchese is not immune to the economic pressures caused by tariffs. When the cost of importing staple items like avocados, berries, or citrus rises, distributors must make strategic decisions to absorb, share, or offset those costs.
For V. Marchese, this has meant:
- Reevaluating sourcing strategies to prioritize domestic partnerships when possible
- Negotiating long-term pricing contracts to stabilize costs
- Investing in logistics and operational efficiencies to reduce overhead
What This Means for the Food Service Industry
Restaurants, hospitality groups, healthcare kitchens, schools, and other food service operators rely on consistency and affordability when planning their menus and budgeting. Tariff-related price fluctuations can disrupt that balance, forcing tough choices on portion sizes, menu prices, or seasonal offerings.
V. Marchese is working closely with chefs, purchasing managers, and culinary teams to stay ahead of market trends and deliver accurate pricing and timely communication. By fostering transparency and flexibility, we’re helping our partners navigate uncertainty with confidence.
V. Marchese’s Commitment to Minimizing Price Surges
Despite ongoing inflation and unpredictable trade policy shifts, V. Marchese is committed to avoiding unnecessary price surges. Here’s how we’re making that possible:
- Diversified sourcing: We maintain strong relationships with growers across multiple regions, ensuring reliable access even when specific imports are affected.
- Cold storage and repacking facilities: Our in-house capabilities allow us to better manage inventory, reduce waste, and extend shelf life—translating to savings for our clients.
- Strategic forecasting: We analyze trends and pricing data to forecast market shifts and advise clients before price changes happen.
- Customer-first mindset: Every decision we make is rooted in our mission to deliver fresh, high-quality produce at competitive prices—no matter the economic landscape.
Staying Informed and Prepared
We understand that our customers want more than just fresh produce—they want a reliable partner who will help them adapt and thrive. As trade policies evolve, V. Marchese will continue to provide the insight and stability our clients have trusted for generations.
To learn more about how we’re navigating today’s economic landscape—or to speak with a member of our team about pricing and availability—visit vmarchese.com or contact us directly.
