Ideal growing conditions this summer resulted in one of the better seasons in memory for Ryan Flaim of Flaim Farms/R&R Flaim Next Generation Produce, and that has the company optimistic for a strong fall season.

“Across the board we had very high quality on our summer crops,” said Flaim. “The growing conditions this summer were outstanding. We had perfect temperatures and not too much rain, which kept volumes in check. As a result, we enjoyed very steady markets and good prices.”

Flaim said nighttime temperatures in August have been about five to seven degrees cooler than normal, which benefited their lettuces — key commodities for the Vineland, NJ-based company. And he is hoping for the ideal conditions to continue as the company turns the corner into the fall season.

“I can’t remember a time when August was so mild, and that has really helped us this year,” he said. “We got off to a late start on our summer deal, but we caught up and things have been going great through the heart of the season. Now we are looking forward to a strong fall season for our leafy items and herbs.”

According to Flaim, the industry has become ultra-competitive in recent years, forcing grower-shippers to elevate their service and attention to quality.

“The biggest thing in our industry is that everything has to be top quality,” he said. “Nothing sub-par is acceptable any longer. And we have to adapt to offer even better service than ever. That includes offering custom packs and variety packs to meet our customer’s needs. Additionally, we need to be able to adapt to meet growing demand for certain items our customers want.”

Flaim pointed to Swiss Chard as one of the items that is growing in popularity.

“A couple of years ago everyone wanted kale,” he said. “One year we increased our kale production by 50 percent to meet demand. Kale continued to grow for us in the last couple of years and it still is extremely popular, but now we are seeing a bigger demand for Swiss Chard. I think consumers are more health-conscious these days and more educated about the foods they eat, and that sometimes drives demand for items like kale and Swiss Chard.”

The local fennel deal is another strong suit for the company, and Flaim said he is preparing for another strong season for that item.

“Two years ago we actually sold out before Thanksgiving, and last year we just about made it to the finish line with fennel,” he said. “This year we’re planning accordingly to make sure we can meet the demand.”

Food safety is an important part of business for Flaim Farms/R&R Flaim Next Generation Produce as well, and the company is working hard to stay ahead of the curve. It maintains a traceability program and has earned USDA harmonized audits for its facilities, including the packinghouse and coolers.

“Food safety is a big issue for our customers, and it is a big issue for us as well,” he said. “We strive to be on top of that in all areas.”