Good afternoon,
Although we have seen relief in pricing this week on LETTUCE, ROMAINE, BROCCOLI, and CAULIFLOWER out of Yuma Arizona, a difficult December is expected. While quantities have improved the QUALITY remains in question, especially on LETTUCE and LEAF items. Cold, wet conditions are less than ideal for greens and can result in mildew and other damages. We will search other growing areas like Florida for the best options for the time being. Looking ahead, sunny skies and cool nights are expected for the next week so we should see gradual improvement as we approach the new year.
Florida product is getting going! Iceberg and romaine along with mixed veg and berries are popping up around the Sunshine State. Having product down here in Florida gives us the opportunity to adjust when weather or markets are not complying.
FLORIDA STRAWBERRIES are now available! Yields are on the rise as the season gets going plus we are seeing some improvement on fruit out of Oxnard and Mexico. The forecast for the next few weeks indicates more positive market trends moving forward!
MELONS are in great supply and great quality! Offshore fruit has arrived in South Florida putting downward pressure on the market. Flavor is strong and once we see some improvement on Mexican supplies, the market should ease even a little bit more!
PEACHES and NECTARINES are expected in the coming weeks. There are some early arrivals but finding the right flavor, and price, is difficult this early in the deal. Air arrivals will be pricey but the only option for the first few weeks of the season. CHERRIES are in good supply and are a great item for Christmas sales!
We have one foot in the domestic GRAPE market and one foot in the import market this week. Domestic supplies are on the decline as import arrivals are very light on both coasts. We are making the best effort to switch to imports wherever possible but so far, only RED and GREEN seedless are showing up and in VERY limited quantities. Without nearly enough volume to cover demand, we will ee some difficulties on grapes between quality and price over the next few weeks as this transition settles.
More as it happens,
Parker Tannehill