Six SoCal Berry Growers Strawberry Farms Close in January

SoCal Strawberry Growers, a supplier for Driscoll's, has announced the closure of six farm locations in Ventura County, California, scheduled for January. The move will result in the layoff of 572 employees, including 459 harvesters. The United Farm Workers union has criticized the decision, alleging it is a tactic to avoid collective bargaining obligations following recent unionization efforts, while the company cites rising operational costs, including water and labor expenses.