The price of wholesale and dry vegetables in Massachusetts has increased by nearly 40% compared to last year, leaving vendors at Boston’s Haymarket feeling the pinch. Despite this surge, vendors remain committed to maintaining the market’s bargaining tradition.
According to Tufts University professor William Masters, the price increase is a result of random fluctuations caused by weather, supply disruptions, or spikes in demand. “Thirty-eight percent is a big jump, and if you’re a vegetable trader, you’ve seen that before,” he said.
Masters attributes the surge to trends such as tariffs and fewer immigrant workers, which are expected to drive prices even higher. However, vendors remain determined to adapt and continue serving customers at competitive prices.
“We pay more and our customers over here still want the same deals,” said Tilleo, a vendor who has been selling at Haymarket for years. Despite the challenges, vendors aim to survive and provide affordable options for consumers.
Source: https://www.cbsnews.com/boston/news/vegetable-price-surge-massachusetts