It’s been abuzz since this summer, and the conversation has been turned up a notch as we near the 2022 cropping year. Crop protection supplies are tight. It’s been a snowball of factors that have led us to this point in time and widespread reports of concerns.
It took two years for this issue to catch up to ag retail. And we aren’t sure how long onto the horizon the issues will exist. In the meantime, tough conversations are being had, and answers are evolving.
Ag retailers are also making prescriptions, taking orders and being the ears on the other side of the phone with 2022 crop fertility plans. The dynamic fertilizer market is setting up farmers to put a lot of thought into every dollar spent, and perhaps, farmers will do things a bit differently.
Looking on the horizon, the labor woes, logistical issues and new buying behaviors will challenge every industry. Ag retail is not unique to have the blocklog and no quick fix in sight. But ag retail is unique in its passion for its farmer-customers and the industry it serves. That strength will help with handling the longer days and harder conversations.
How Many Rabbits Are Left To Pull Out of the Hat?
One silver lining to find in this is that you can help customers find success, and they will be reaffirmed that you are a port in the storm. Providing transparency, not just offering hope, is the goal of many suppliers.
Short-term realities and long-term stamina might be just the combination for the year ahead.
