From Inc · · 1m 10s
Workers at Major Driscoll’s Grower Voted to Unionize
SoCal Berry Growers plans to close six farms after workers voted to unionize.
In brief
SoCal Berry Growers plans to close six farms after workers voted to unionize. SoCal Berry Growers announced plans to close six farms in January 2027, following a worker unionization vote. Originally reported by Inc.
SoCal Berry Growers Announces Farm Closures
SoCal Berry Growers will close six farms in Ventura County, California, cutting 572 jobs in January 2027.
Workers Voted to Unionize
Workers at SoCal Berry Growers voted to unionize with the United Farm Workers last week.
Company Challenges Unionization
SoCal Berry Growers challenged the unionization petition after workers voted to unionize.
Union Claims Shutdown Response
United Farm Workers vice president Roman Pinal said the shutdown is a response to the union vote.
Ventura County Strawberry Losses
Ventura County growers lost money on strawberries last year, generating $808 million in revenue versus $815 million in production costs.
Rising Costs for Farms
Irrigation water costs rose from $22.10 per acre-inch in 2007 to $88.83 in 2025, while labor costs increased from $13 to $25.16.
No Immediate Response from Companies
Driscoll’s and SoCal Berry Growers did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
The takeaway
SoCal Berry Growers announced plans to close six farms in January 2027, following a worker unionization vote.
