U.S. Pork Industry Fuels American Jobs and Economic Growth: New Report Unveiled

The National Pork Producers Council (NPPC) released a new economic contribution report detailing the significant impact America’s pig farmers have on the United States’ agricultural and overall economy. The report highlights the pork industry’s value chain contributions and trends in production and industry structure.

“America’s pork industry is a vital pillar of our nation’s agricultural economy, contributing over $62 billion annually and supporting hundreds of thousands of jobs across the country,” said NPPC President Lori Stevermer, a pork producer from Easton, Minn. “Producers are committed to delivering...

NRF Economist Says Labor Market and Interest Rates Will Play Major Roles in 2024

After a better-than-expected performance in 2023, what happens with the economy in 2024 could depend largely on the labor market and what the Federal Reserve does with interest rates, National Retail Federation Chief Economist Jack Kleinhenz said today.

“Federal Reserve officials have tough policy choices ahead as they decide on what to do and when,” Kleinhenz said. “There is still a risk that keeping rates too high could curb the economy’s momentum more than necessary. Yet if they lower rates too soon...

REPORTER: Restaurant Employment Makes Long Journey Back to Pre-COVID Levels

This article was originally featured in the WINTER 2024 Edition of Urner Barry’s Reporter magazine. 

Since the COVID pandemic essentially shut down the entire foodservice industry in 2020, the sector has been on a long road to recovery. Sales have improved gradually since 2021 and consumers are still opting to eat away from home despite sticky inflationary pressure.

Labor has been one of the biggest headwinds facing the industry. Food inflation is another topic but finding labor to feed a population with a big appetite to dine out...