Ventura County – A major agricultural employer announced a sudden shutdown of six of its facilities, affecting nearly 600 workers across the county. SoCal Berry Growers, the exclusive grower for the Driscoll’s brand in the area, said it will cease operations at four locations in Ventura and two in Oxnard, with layoffs to begin on Jan. 11.
Economic pressures drive closure
Industry analysts cited soaring prices for diesel, water and fertilizer as the primary drivers of the decision. Those input costs have created a severe economic strain for local strawberry growers, forcing some to cut back or close entirely.
“The cost environment has become untenable for many of our growers,” said a spokesperson for the California Farm Bureau, referencing the same pressures that led SoCal Berry to act.
Impact on workers and families
SoCal Berry Growers employs roughly 600 people, the majority of whom are listed as “harvester.” The company noted that lower‑level positions will not be available after the shutdown, leaving many families facing sudden unemployment.
Union representatives, who organized the workers under the United Farm Workers in July, expressed concern for the affected labor force. “Our members deserve a fair transition and support as they seek new employment,” said UFW organizer Maria Hernandez.
Local officials respond
Oxnard City Councilmember Bert Perello received a letter from a shareholder indicating the layoffs will begin Jan. 11. Perello said the council will monitor the situation and explore resources to assist displaced workers. “Our community thrives when families have stable jobs,” he said. “We will work with state and local agencies to provide whatever help we can.”
What comes next?
The shutdown underscores the broader challenges facing Ventura County’s agricultural sector, which relies heavily on seasonal labor and tight profit margins. Local leaders have called for a review of input‑cost policies and potential relief measures to keep farms viable.
SoCal Berry Growers has not responded to requests for comment beyond the initial announcement.
Original reporting: KEYT (Ventura/Santa Barbara) — read the source article.
