Sweet Potatoes: A Thanksgiving Staple Under Threat
While celebrating Thanksgiving this year, remember that the U.S. almost lost one of its Thanksgiving MVPs (Most Valuable Produce): sweet potatoes. North Carolina, the largest producer in the country, suffered a severe drought in June and July, followed by unrelenting rainfall at the end of the summer that nearly doubled precipitation levels, climbing from 19 to 38 inches. These extreme weather swings devastated sweet potato crops, with yields dropping by as much as 50% in some areas. The result? A sharp price surge, with sweet potato costs rising by more than 20% in some markets, just as Thanksgiving demand began to peak.
But while some businesses were left scrambling, Helios AI clients had all the fixings for a successful holiday season.
Helios AI identified the potential for a sweet potato shortage months before it made headlines. By analyzing weather patterns and production data, Helios flagged the drought and subsequent flooding in North Carolina as significant risks to the 2024 sweet potato harvest. Clients were alerted early, giving them the foresight to adjust their procurement strategies before the broader market reacted.
Armed with Helios’s timely insights, businesses secured alternative suppliers and adjusted their inventory planning. This proactive approach allowed Helios clients to maintain steady sweet potato supplies and lock in prices before they surged. While competitors scrambled to react as news of the shortage spread, Helios users were already positioned to meet demand without disruption or inflated costs.
The 2024 sweet potato shortage reminds us that even the most iconic Thanksgiving staples aren’t immune to climate disruptions. For businesses, the ability to anticipate climate-driven supply chain disruptions is no longer optional—it’s essential. Helios AI continues to empower its clients with the tools they need to navigate uncertainty, protect their supply chains, and gain a competitive edge in volatile markets. With Helios on your side, you can ensure your supply chain stays as steady as grandma’s gravy.
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You can read & download the full case study below. Happy Thanksgiving from everyone at Helios!
