Late this month, the Organic Trade Association (OTA) released findings from their 2011 Organic Industry Survey. One such finding points out that the organic industry grew to a whopping $28.6 billion+ in 2010.
This is huge news, considering the flat growth experienced by many other segments of the economy. More impressive than growth alone, is that the organic industry experienced healthy growth, with some sectors of the organic market growing nearly 8% in 2010, while even other sectors of the organic industry experienced growth of well over 30%.
In a press release, Christine Bushway, OTA's CEO and Executive Director, notes, "Consumers continue to vote with their dollars in favor of the organic choice. These results illustrate the positive contribution organic agriculture and trade make to our economy, and particularly to rural livelihoods...The good news is that even as the economic recovery crawls forward, the organic industry is thriving - and hiring." Impressive again, because unemployment rates are up elsewhere.
Some general facts from OTA's Organic Industry Survey:- In 2010, 40% of organic companies reported full-time employment growth.
- 46% of survey respondents anticipate a 2011 increase in employment.
- 50% of survey respondents expect employment to remain even in 2011.
- Organic fruits and vegetables experienced the most growth, representing 39.7% of total organic food value.
- Organic produce represents nearly 12% of all U.S. fruit and vegetable sales, and hit almost $10.6 billion in 2010, which is 11.8% more than in 2009.
- Organic dairy was the second-largest category in 2010 and experienced 9% growth, achieving $3.9 billion.
All in all a killer year for the organic industry!
If you're looking for a job in the organic industry, visit the organic business forum to see the latest organic job postings. If you're looking for work in general, or need tips about how to apply for organic jobs, Alison Doyle, who heads up the About.com guide to Job Searching site offers plenty of useful tips.
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