The 2020/2021 Peruvian grape season will be remembered as a historic season, one not seen before and hopefully won't be repeated.
Looking ahead, Vanguard International notes some key changes to plan for a successful 2021/2022 season.
Operations flow
To ensure labor continuity, the packinghouse lines are being reviewed and reconfigured. Instead of four to five bags per grape varietal, Vanguard will transition to one. Given nobody knows what the new post COVID-19 “normal” will be, Vanguard needs to lean heavily toward new efficiencies to reduce errors, create operational efficiencies and reduce risk on product shipment delays.
Facilities
Vanguard is expanding its Peru facilities both in the packing house and the pre-cool and cold storage rooms to provide additional space and distancing practices. This includes an expansion to the kitchen and lunch room facilities. It will continue planning for multiple points of entry to the facilities, which requires additional staff to function with COVID-19 protocols.
For the upcoming season, Vanguard's proprietary premium grape mix will be 60 percent green varietals, 30 percent red varietals and 10 percent black varietals.
Labor
With operational changes, Vanguard is not looking at a staffing reduction but at a more satisfied labor force. The previous season required training and re-training in a manner that did not allow it to set the team up for success and that can demoralize teams. Its labor plans for the upcoming season will ensure a more consistent workforce. Vanguard is confident its teams will be invigorated, in control and, most importantly, know they have been listened to and are supported.
Varieties
Vanguard is poised to be in a strong position regarding the percentage of varieties by color. The market is seeing increased demand for green grapes and Vanguard is growing to fill that need. Its proprietary premium grape mix going into the 2022 season will be 60 percent green varietals, 30 percent red varietals and 10 percent black varietals. Vanguard will also continue reviewing new varieties.
“We learned a lot coming out of the previous season. The confluence of external events along with the pandemic have led us to making positive and defensive changes, not just for the upcoming season but for the years ahead. These changes will be critical for the company and ensure our ongoing commitment to provide the best quality produce worldwide,” said Dirk Winkelmann, Vanguard chief business development officer.
For more information:
Andrea Bava
Vanguard International
Tel: +1 (778) 908-1764
andrea@blitzme.ca
https://www.vanguardteam.com