Looking back at November 1999, what is most notable about the industry is that there was plenty of crack and banter, plenty of personalities and time for folk to be enjoying themselves. People seem to be much busier these days in the industry.
The MGA in Brighton was a main feature of that month, with tales of partying and intense focus the order of the day.
The move from bags to blocks was well under way back then, with zero mention of the Dutch shelving system. Flies were also regarded as a serious problem that year, as it was one of the warmest on record - something we have got more used to hearing.
Looking at November 2009 - figures on the rout that cleared out the industry was reaching ministerial ears in Dáil Éireann. 504 mushroom growers in the year 2000, down to 84 in 2009 - with the value of sterling cited as one main factor in the shake-out.
Meanwhile Monaghan Mushrooms were beginning their expansion in Canada with the acquisition of Rol-land farms.
Codd Mushrooms were also in expansionist mode in Wicklow. And of course Ducth shelving systems were now the bees knees.
