The only one who makes out in this deal is the consumer. If production costs are reduced through easily adopted technologies, we would expect that over time output would increase, prices would fall, and competitive advantage would erode. Only early adopters gain an advantage here. But agricultural technology has often been referred to as a treadmill. Producers have to guess right about cost-saving technology and adopt it quickly to capture benefits before prices fall.
Operational efficiency is a moving target and a harsh task master.
Tne way to step off the treadmill is to look for technologies that are not easily adopted by competitors. Farming systems, for example, that take advantage of unique differences in natural resources, or those that require special knowledge or skill, are less likely to be so widely adopted that they drive prices down. Similarly, technologies that require large capital outlays or individual access to input or processing industries may offer some advantages. Unique product characteristics can be protected by brand names, patents, or trade secrets. Note, however, these characteristics are likely to be developed by upstream processors and retailers.