<p>Avocados have been increasing in popularity over the past few years, but could it be possible that we may see this demand exceed supply in the long term? Growers tell AndNowUKnow that while they currently see <B>good supply</b> of avocados in California, Mexico, Chile, and Peru, the <B>overall rate of consumption is increasing quickly</b>. So much so that on an annual basis, demand is growing faster than supply for popular varieties such as Hass avocados.</p><hr class="legacyRuler"><hr class="invisible minimal-padding"><p>Currently, prices for Mexican and Californian avocados have increased into the <B>mid to high 30s</b> range as consumer demand increases. John Dmytriw, Director of Sales at Index Fresh, tells AndNowUKnow that there’s increased picking in California earlier than what the industry usually sees, partly due to the drought.</p><hr class="legacyRuler"><hr class="invisible minimal-padding"><p><B>Stronger marketing efforts</b> are playing a huge factor in terms of supply and demand. Avocado growers are seeing continued trends in consumption on a monthly basis, especially as new foodservice opportunities develop.</p><hr class="legacyRuler"><hr class="invisible minimal-padding"><p>The market right now is <B>currently stable, if not slightly under-supplied globally</b>, another grower tells us. According to Inside Scoop SF, last year California produced 500 million pounds of avocados. This year, the industry is on track to produce 300 million pounds – <B>an average amount</b>. </p><hr class="legacyRuler"><hr class="invisible minimal-padding"><p>Dmytriw notes, “<B>We’re not seeing a gap in supply currently</b>. It’s a <B>steady market</b> right now, but there will be gaps if more people demand for origin-specific avocados.”</p><hr class="legacyRuler"><hr class="invisible minimal-padding"><p>Ultimately, while the market is stable right now, it remains to be seen how increasing consumption and demand will affect overall weekly supply for the 2014 season. Index’s executive management team has taken the necessary steps over the years to minimize gaps in supply through global sourcing and packing. "We anticipate this to be an exceptional year for Avocados in general!" Dmytriw tells us.</p><hr class="legacyRuler"><hr class="invisible minimal-padding"><p>Stay tuned to AndNowUKnow for continuous updates on the avocado market.</p><hr class="legacyRuler"><hr class="invisible minimal-padding">
