WASHINGTON - As we look back at 2023, there are significant milestones to celebrate. For Equitable Food Initiative and its mission, 2023 was a banner year. Driving forward in its mission, the association celebrated an impactful new program launch, grew its dedicated staff, and streamlined certification to make it more cost effective for growers starting in 2024.
“We’ve gathered a dedicated group of innovative problem solvers from throughout the industry, representing both buyers and suppliers, to help create and implement a scalable solution that helps growers assess their labor management systems and improve over time,” remarked Peter O’Driscoll, Executive Director.
One of the highlights EFI spotlighted in a release was the launch of its Ethical Charter Implementation Program (ECIP). The program provides a framework for the fresh produce industry to align with the Ethical Charter on Responsible Labor Practices without the burden of additional audits, the release outlined.
Working alongside The Sustainability Consortium, the ECIP Marketplace also launched in 2023, connecting growers and suppliers with expert service providers.
In addition to these milestones, EFI generated more than $18 million in worker bonuses since the program’s inception. The bonus is meant to both incentivize workers and reward the extra diligence required to maintain EFI certification standards. It has been one element in helping EFI-certified farms experience lower-than-average worker turnover.
“The industry continues to suffer the effects of a labor shortage caused by market and political pressures, and the average farmworker’s age is rising,” O’Driscoll continued. “Cultivating a positive culture where hard work pays off is a great tool to help grower-shippers become employers of choice in a tight labor market. I’m incredibly proud of our multistakeholder board and dedicated staff and am excited to bring more industrywide solutions to the table in 2024.”
To hear testimonials on the work that EFI is doing in the fresh space, click here.
Keep reading ANUK as we continue to cover all things related to the produce industry.
