MURRIETA, CA - Having certainly come in like a lion (and then some), the West Coast’s spring is mellowing out for a lamb-like exit, and with it an update on the ever-anticipated avocados. As we look to guacamole-centered Cinco de Mayo kicking off a delicious season of avo-eating, West Pak Avocado’s Director of Sourcing Stephen Sheldon took the time to help me understand what is on the horizon for the category.
“After all of the rain delays, harvesting in California is picking up quickly, with an anticipated volume slightly under last year. The rain and delays in harvesting have allowed the fruit to size up nicely. As we move into harvesting at higher elevations in Mexico, which will continue to have strong volumes of fruit through their typical end-of-crop year, buyers can look forward to more availability and market opportunities for jumbo-sized fruit.”
While California volume will see a dip, demand continues to rise and will likely be further stoked by the quality. Stephen reported that the fruit is very clean due to the good weather and cooler temperatures. While this sounds like it could spell a tighter market to start, he said a more promotional market is anticipated into the middle of summer before tapering off a bit nearing the end of August.
“Since the local crop out of Mexico looks lighter than the year before, we anticipate some changes toward the end of summer and into early fall. Overall, though, we expect pricing will be good for marketing avocados this season,” he confirmed.
As we continue to monitor all dynamic produce categories, keep an eye out for the latest from AndNowUKnow.
