Ok I am missing something here.
I do not see how they make any money out of keeping bees commercially.
So you tell me they burn their hives at the end of the season.
I am assuming that means brood box, 10 frames, bottom board and lid.
Based on Dadant prices and I figure they probably get a discount for buying in bulk but even so:
Super $13.95
10 Frames $13.95
Foundation $10.00
Lid $12.00
Bottom board $18.00
=$67.90
Latest published USDA honey prices is say an avg of $2 per pound.
Let's say 100 pounds per hive per season =$200 per hive per season.
Kellys sell a 5 frame nuc for $195 probably discounted as well $150-$120?? So lets say $120.
Lets also assume they can put together a box for $50 so we have a total cost of $170.
Leaving $30 for transport costs, wages, extraction costs, Insurance, pension, depreciation, etc etc. I have deliberately left out profit cos there aint any!
Can someone tell me how they make money then?