Grapes from California Provide Ripe Retail Opportunities and High Demand; Ian LeMay Comments


Mon. October 6th, 2025 - by Jordan Okumura-Wright

CALIFORNIA - The beauty of Grapes from California is their extended season of promotional potential. While spring signals their arrival, the category continues to thrive with fresh momentum as the fall and winter holidays commence. Supporting global basket sales through Halloween and Thanksgiving and into the December holidays and the New Year’s rush, the period is rich with table grape demand. From merchandising strategies that position grapes as a healthy candy swap at Halloween and convenient on-the-go snacks during fall activities to starring on a charcuterie board during festive celebrations—California grapes are ripe for every occasion.

Ian LeMay, President, California Table Grape Commission

“The fall season is an exciting time for California grapes as there are many celebrations and occasions where grapes can be enjoyed in the U.S. and many export markets,” said Ian LeMay, President of the California Table Grape Commission. “California grapes are delicious, easy to share, and pair well with all sorts of sweet and savory items, making them an excellent fit for Halloween, Thanksgiving, and Christmas promotions as well as Dia de los Muertos or the Mid-Autumn Festival.”

As California enjoyed a mild summer to begin the season, and the weather has remained favorable moving into the fall season, harvest is expected to continue into December, which means there is plenty of opportunity to enjoy the bounty that comes from California grape vineyards.

Supporting global basket sales through Halloween and Thanksgiving and into the December holidays and the New Year’s rush, the period is rich with table grape demand

“The California Table Grape Commission is committed to supporting retailers in maximizing the promotions of California grapes,” shared LeMay. “As always, the marketing team looks forward to connecting with anyone at the show interested in discussing California grape promotion opportunities.”


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California Table Grape Commission

Generations of families have been growing grapes in California since 1839. That wealth of knowledge and care has been…