The labor shortage across the U.S. manufacturing base is a worrisome reality for many industries, and the dairy processing industry is no exception. According to “Creating pathways for tomorrow’s workforce today: Beyond reskilling in manufacturing” — a 2021 report from Deloitte and The Manufacturing Institute — 77% of surveyed U.S. manufacturers said they will have ongoing difficulties in attracting and retaining workers in 2021 and beyond.
There are myriad reasons for the current shortage — including but not limited to factors tied to the COVID-19 pandemic and a rise in the number of retiring workers — and there are no easy solutions. However, dairy companies that adopt some best practices in hiring, training, and retaining plant employees will have an edge.