TAX "QUOTES"

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“In this world nothing can be said to be certain, except death and taxes.”
Benjamin Franklin


“For a nation to try to tax itself into prosperity is like a man standing in a bucket and trying to lift himself up by the handle.”–Winston Churchill

“You don’t pay taxes – They take taxes” –Chris Rock

“The only thing worse than paying taxes is not paying taxes” 
–Lord Thomas Dewar

Weather forecast for The West continues to have mild conditions other than the occasional wind brought on by offsetting Hi and Lo pressure systems. This seasonal occurrence will keep temperatures  near normal next week before rising slightly above normal the following week throughout the state.  California Coast norms 67/44-50 .   The Inland Valley norms 75/45 and The Desert  norms 88/53. 

Transportation rates held steady  this past week and appear to be holding firm into next week. Transition back to to the California Coast should help logistics but increased demand from Strawberries and Spring Veg will keep pressure on rates to maintain .  Plan ahead for best value and service. 



CELERY- The celery market  continues to produce predominantly large sizes although that will begin to change next week with seeders  expected to become an issue which will reduce the overall volume especially larger sizes.

STRAWBERRIES- Production continues from all three districts, Watsonville, Santa Maria and Oxnard. Some shippers especially in Oxnard have had a difficult time keeping up with production leading to some softness and arrival issues. The poor market and lack of sufficient labor has led to many shippers getting behind and then having to divert fruit to the freezers to keep up withproduction. Santa Maria currently has the best quality followed by Watsonville/Salinas. The market continues to be saturated but better fruit is being priced at a premium. Most shippers continue to put  together promotions to keep up with the heavy volume from all three districts.  Good supplies of stems are also available. 
 Raspberries continue to be in short supply although production and quality will increase as the weather warms.  Blackberries supplies are improving but quality has kept most fruit close to market. 

LETTUCE- Production has finished in the desert and is currently nearing the transition to Salinas.  Huron is still the primary loading location through earlynext week. Salinas shippers started the past few days with quality similar to Huron but with more misshapened heads. Quality in all areas has issues , mostly with weak tip but will improve as growers get into fields that weren’t affected by the late Winter weather.  The market will firm as fewer districts will be in play. Also affecting supplies will be the lack of sufficient labor needed to harvest.  

LEAF LETTUCE-   Romaine quality has improved which has increasedsupplies. Yuma, Huron and now Salinas are all in production. Green and Red leaf should fully transition to Salinas sooner and supplies will moderate and the market is expected to strengthen as Huron finishes by the end of next week. 


CITRUS- Navel production continues with good volume and good flavor and sizing profiles. Packout is heaviest towards fancy but there continues to be deals available on smaller and choice packs.  Steady increase in productionhas translated to good values on all packs

CAULIFLOWER-  Production continues to stall in Salinas and Santa MariaValley as production has ended in the desert leading to a slight decrease insupplies. The market  ended this past week firm but could ease slightly next week as production picks up in the North although the market is not expected to adjust significantly until late next week at the earliest. Quality has mostly been good with occasional spotting on arrivals.

BROCCOLI- Production has shifted fully to Salinas and Santa Maria.  Santa Maria quality has been better but  Salinas is improving daily and allowing production of all packs. Look for an extended period of heavy volume andgood promotional supplies. 

ASPARAGUS- Production from Central Mexico will finish next week leavingas Salinas and Stockton as the primary production area until the coastal Baja region of Mexico starts next month. The market is strengthening and will continue to firm significantly with fewer supplies available. 

GRAPES-  Shipments are expected to gap next week with the labor issues in Chile. The market is expected to rise on all varietals especially the green.Quality has been very inconsistent  but should improve once productionimproves.

CARROTS-  Carrot production has been steady but with slightly smaller sizing.  The market is firm with steady demand.

ARTICHOKES- Artichokes production is peaking especially the preferred Green Globe variety in Castroville. Additional globe varieties are alsoavailable. A few shippers are still actively pursuing promotions and lowerpricing reflects. Quality is excellent. Sizing is peaking on large sizes and will transition to the medium 24-30 count next week with an increasing amount of the usually limited quantities of small sizes.

CHERRIES-  California Cherry production is on schedule for an early May start with light availability in a couple weeks.  Promotional volume will be available by mid May through the first week of June. Schedule promotions now while supplies last.

SPRING BREAK

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With  Spring Break finishing up it time to get back to work. Most veg items have finally transitioned back to the California Coast. Strawberries are in full bloom  and  Spring veg items are right around the corner. There are plenty of items available and quality is improving everyday. 

Weather forecast for The West is predicted  to be near normal temperatures withonly occasional light precipitation the next 2-3 weeks. California Coast norms67/44-48 .   The Inland Valley norms 72-74/45 and The Desert  norms 86/52. 

Transportation rates held steady  last week but could ease slightly  this coming week before the inflated Summer rates start to escalate at the end of the month.Transition into new growing areas increasing the number of stops continues to add cost.  Plan ahead for best value and service. 

****WARNING**** Extended below freezing temperatures have resulted in blister, peel and discoloration issues on most vegetable commodities along with occasional decay.(Last Reported Issues) 


CELERY- The celery market  adjusted as transition back to Oxnard being the dominant production area. Once Mexico finish up supplies will moderate and the market will firm. Quality is improving daily. Seeders are expected to become an issue which will reduce the overall volume especially larger sizes.

STRAWBERRIES- Southern California Coast production is in full swing. The fruit is firm, with good size (15-17) with an occasional white shoulder and bruising. Santa Maria production continues to increase. Watsonville/ Salinas has just started to offer fruit that will travel. The market continues to be saturated. Most shippers areputting together as many promotions  as possible to keep up with the heavy volume from all three districts.  Good supplies of stemsare also available.  Raspberries continue to be in short supply although production and quality will increase as the weather warms. Blackberries supplies and quality continue to decline with most fruit being shipped to close in markets.

LETTUCE- Production continues from both Yuma and the transitionalgrowing areas in California Central Valley with Salinas expected to start by the end of the week.  Size and weights are improving.Misshapen heads along with blister and peel continue to be present but are improving daily. 
Quality will need to be closely monitored as to which area has the best. All three districts will have their own separate issues.  Moderate temperatures forecast in the desert will allow some shippers to continue production in Yuma until theytransition to Salinas sometime next week. Seasonal insect pressure in the Central Valley has begun to show up in Huron and may present a significant problem next week. Once the desert finishes uplook for the market to rebound but in the mean time take advantage of the available deals. 

LEAF LETTUCE-   Romaine quality has improved which has increased supplies although blister, peel and discoloration are still present but improving daily and should not be an issue by midweek. Insect pressure in Huron could especially affect Hearts.  Salinas is expected to begin production slowly next week before fully transitioning the following week. Supplies will moderate and the market is expected to strengthen as Huron finishes by the middle of the month


CITRUS- Navel production continues with good volume and goodflavor and sizing profiles. Packout is heaviest towards fancy but there continues to be deals available on smaller and choice packs.  Steady increase in production has translated to good values on all packs

CAULIFLOWER-  Production has started to increase in Salinas and Santa Maria Valley as production has ended for most shippers in the desert leading to a slight decrease in supplies. The market  ended the week firm but could ease slightly next week as production picks up in the North although the market is not expected to adjust significantly until next weekend. Quality has mostly been good with occasional spotting on arrivals.

BROCCOLI- Production has shifted fully to Salinas and Santa Maria.Salinas quality is still fair and not allowing for normal crown production leading to a firmer market  mostly on crowns. Santa Maria quality has been significantly better but overall volume has been slow coming. Production will pick up this week especiallycrowns and the market will adjust accordingly. 

ASPARAGUS- Production from Mexico has peaked as Salinas andStockton has begun to pick up . Quality from Mexico is starting todecline as domestic production has improved. The market continues to be weak with the overlap of growing areas but Mexico production is expected to drop off by the end of next week which will lead to the market firming significantly. 

GRAPES-   Shipments are steady this week from Chile with better sizing expected especially the Reds although there continues to be a wide range in quality and sizing with significant discounts available on off quality packs. Green varietals as well as  Globes continue to see increases in supplies and the market adjusting based on quality but Reds should remain steady or even strengthen for the best quality.

CARROTS-  Carrot production has been steady but with slightlysmaller sizing.  The market is firm with steady demand.

ARTICHOKES- Artichokes production is peaking especially the preferred Green Globe variety in Castroville. Additional globevarieties are also available. Most shippers have strong promotionscurrently and pricing reflects . Quality is excellent. Sizing is peaking on large sizes currently and will transition to the medium 24-30count by mid April with small sizes available by the end of the month. 

Transition

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TRANSITION

Transition  back to the Central and Coastal Valleys of California started this past week and will continue in earnest next week. This will be a welcomed change as far as quality but it will take some patience dealing with  logistics. The weather should allow a smoother transition but even the smoothest are often difficult.Quality will continue to be a concern but with multiple areas available choosing the best will be important which will put greater stress on logistics.

Weather forecast for the California Coast (norms:66/44-48) calls normal thru most of next week but with possible rain late next week  leading to below normal temps the following week. The Desert and Central Mexico  (norms:84/50) may also see a thunderstorm roll through the area the next weekend but otherwisenormal temperatures through next week with moderate temps to remain through mid April.  Central Valley California (norm:70/42) has forecast similar to the rest of the state with  average temperatures other than possible weekendthunderstorms predicted for next weekend followed by cooler temperatures the following week.

Transportation rates have begun to tighten even as the Easter Holiday demand starts to wind down. Transition into new growing areas has increased the number of stops trucks need to make and   increased volume on strawberries also has reduced available truck supply  leading to higher rates.  Plan ahead for best value and service. 


****WARNING**** Extended below freezing temperatures have resulted in blister, peel and discoloration issues on most vegetable commodities along with occasional decay.  


CELERY- The celery market has started to adjust as transition back to Oxnard being the dominant production area has begun. Much of the supply shipping from the desert will be transferred product. Once the desert area finishes  and with Florida winding down supplies should tighten back up in a couple weeks especially if the predicted seeder issue is significant.  Quality continues to show signs of frost damage including pith and black heart and will continue to have varying degrees of issues for another week. 

STRAWBERRIES- Production and quality continue to decline from Mexico and Florida. Southern California Coast avoided any rain this past week to allow production to keep up with the extensive Easter Holiday promotions. Further promotions will be necessary to keep the market from dropping significantly but look for lower prices and good promotional opportunities in the coming weeks. Good supplies of s
tems are also available. Fruit is firm, with good size (14-16) with an occasional white shoulder and bruising. Santa Maria has started to increase production which is where the majority of fruit willtransition in a couple weeks. Watsonville/ Salinas is still a couple weeks from commercial production.  Florida production has slowed and soft fruit has limited their ability to ship product too far out of state.  Mexico production will likely continue to decrease before finishing for the season at the end of the month.  Raspberries continue to be in short supply although production is starting to  increase as the weather warms.  Blackberries supplies and qualitycontinue to decline with most fruit being shipped to close in markets.

LETTUCE- Supplies continue to be short from the desert but additional supplies from transitional growing areas in California Central Valley are underway.  Size and weights are improving.Misshapen heads along with blister and peel continue to be present but are improving daily. Demand from processors  has eased slightly. Even with overall supplies still light demand will likely slow causing a moderate correction in the market. Moderatetemperatures forecast in the desert will allow some shippers to continue production in Yuma until they transition to Salinas and avoid the transition to Huron. Seasonal insect pressure in the Central Valley has begun to show up in Huron and may present a significant problem in the coming weeks.  

LEAF LETTUCE-   Romaine quality has improved which has increased supplies although blister, peel, discoloration and occasional decay are still present but improving daily.  Romaine hearts continue to offer a better value with slightly fewer condition defects  but pricing has returned to normal above carton range as most shippers are not forced to strip down Romaine into hearts.


CITRUS- Navel production continues with good volume and goodflavor and sizing profiles. Packout is heaviest towards fancy but there continues to be deals available on smaller and choice packs.  Steady increase in production has translated to good values on all packs

CAULIFLOWER-  Production has started to increase in Salinas and Santa Maria Valley as production has ended for some shippers in Yuma leading to a slight decrease in  supplies. The market  ended the week firm but could ease next week as production picks up in the North. 

BROCCOLI- Quality along the coast has surpassed quality in the desert. Shippers  will be finishing production in the desert next week but Salinas should pick up the slack. Look for the crown market totemporarily firm next week until full transition back to Salinas. Santa Maria will continue to have good quality and supplies throughout the week. 

ASPARAGUS- Production from Mexico has peaked with additional supplies available from imports.  Salinas has also started with some production leading to a good supply of aspargus. Most shippers  firmed prices to meet their Easter Holiday ad prices but some shippers are offering deals to keep movement steady especially as the Mexican deal winds down. Look for prices to firm back up in a couple weeks. 

GRAPES-   Shipments are increasing again this week from Chile with better sizing expected especially the Reds although there continues to be a wide range in quality and sizing with  significant discounts available on off quality packs. Green varietals  continue to see increases in supplies and the market adjust but Reds should remain steady or even strengthen for the best quality.

CARROTS-  Carrot production has been steady but with strongHoliday demand.  The market is steady but bulk supplies from Mexico continue to keep pressure on the market.

ARTICHOKES- Artichokes production has started it’s seasonal peak especially the preferred Green Globe variety in Castroville/ Salinas. There also continues to be other globe varieties available and withmost “frosted” issues having past all shippers have been offering promotional pricing. Most production missed the Easter promo slot but now is the time to promote.  Sizing will peak on large sizes the next couple weeks and will transition to the medium 24-30 count by mid April with small sizes predominant by the end of the month. 

MADNESS CONTINUES

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As Spring approaches Mother Nature reminds us that we have a few more days of Winterbut Spring is right around the corner.  No better example than the Desert where forecasts call for possible Thunderstorms and low snow levels on today but jumping back to above normal temperatures on its’ way to seasonal highs near 90 degrees by the end of next week. 

Weather forecast for the California Coast (norms:65/44-48) next few days calls showers Friday followed by clearing and cold before FINALLY rebounding to above normal temperatures most of next week but with possible showers again next weekend. The Desert and Central Mexico  (norms:80/47) may also see a thunderstorm roll through the area Friday with cold temperatures but quickly turning hot next week. Central Florida forecast temperatures are expected to continue slightly above normal the next couple weeks. (norm:77/56lo) .

Transportation continues to be steady but will tighten throughout the week. Fuel prices continue to climb which has not allowed rates to drop. Better volume on seasonal items such as strawberries also has reduced available supply. Plan ahead for best value and service. 


****WARNING**** Extended below freezing temperatures have resulted in blister, peel and discoloration issues on most vegetable commodities along with occasional decay.  


CELERY- The celery market adjusted this past week but the market has begun to firm  as volume from Florida and Mexico has steadied  Quality continues to show signs of frost damage including pith and black heart and will continue to have varying degrees of issues depending on production location.  Production in California is not expected to increase significantly and may even decrease as desert production winds down. There is a wide range in quality and sizing depending on loading location. Some shippers are peaking on large size 18’s and some with 36’s As the market adjusts look to take advantage of special offers on off sizes.

STRAWBERRIES- Production and quality are on the steep decline from Mexico and Florida just as Southern Californian Coast starts to increase. If the Southern Coast escapes any significant precipitation this weekend  the forecast for warmer weather next week will help shippers fill demand for  Easter promos.  Florida production has slowed and soft fruit has limited their ability to ship product too far out of state.  Mexico production will likely continue to decrease before finishing for the season in a couple weeks.  Raspberries continue to be in short supply although production should increase as the weather warms. Stems should become more available as well.Blackberries are available but supplies and quality will rapidly decrease in coming weeks from Mexico.

LETTUCE- Supplies continue to fluctuate with weather and quality. Size and weights are off significantly. Misshapen heads along with blister and peel appear to be the norm. Shippers will continue to strip down most affected leaves but that will increase mechanical issues and create further discoloration and breakdown. There has been substantial discounts on 30’s with most shippers running heavy percentage of smaller lettuce but with heavy demand from processors and salad promotions shippers are firming prices on all sizes.  Hot weather next week may help bring on more volume but quality may suffer .

LEAF LETTUCE-  Quality continues to suffer from blister, peel, discoloration and occasional decay. Romaine continues to be much tighter than the colors as the market has already adjusted significantly on the colors. Romaine supplies tightened and the market advanced higher.  Quality issues from frost are currently peaking but will continue to exist through the remainder of the desert deal and likely extend into the Spring .Warmer weather next week will help volume but quality may suffer from dehydration. Romaine hearts continue to offer a better value with slightly fewer condition defects and slightly lower pricing.


CITRUS- Navel production continues with good volume and improving flavor and sizing profiles. Recent freezes have had minor impact on production so far only to increase choice offerings although packout is still heaviest towards fancy.  Steady increase in production will translate to better values as the season progresses.

CAULIFLOWER-  Production stalled slightly this week and good advanced orders  being quoted by most shippers has firmed the market.  Warmer weather should increase  promotional volume in 9 size as most 12’s have been pre committed on ad. Quality has been mostly good.

BROCCOLI- Quality along the coast is improving  while quality in the desert and Mexico continues to be good. Warmer weather and additional production from California Central Valley and now the Salinas Valley will continue to increase supplies next wee

k and put pressure on the market to soften

 . Continuing to monitor quality will be important depending on loading location.

ASPARAGUS- After having production delayed by weeks Mexico is finally starting to have improved supplies. The market  adjusted earlier in the week but as the start of the Easter pull begins next week most shippers are already firming prices to meet their ad prices. Most shippers have stopped giving promotional pricing until after the Easter Holiday. An early Easter Holiday has benefited both suppliers and retailers.

GRAPES-   Shipments are increasing again this week from Chile with better sizing expected especially the Reds although there continues to be a wide range in quality and sizing with discounts available on off quality packs. Green varietals should continue to see increases in supplies and the market adjust but Reds should remain steady or even strengthen.

CARROTS-  Carrot production has been steady but demand has been strong.  The market is steady locally with bulk supplies from Mexico  continuing to keep pressure on the market.

ARTICHOKES- Currently most artichokes are “frosted”  and shippers  are offering discounts to keep them moving.  Supplies will start to increase by next week but most will still be frosted which will limit movement for the normally heavily promoted Easter holiday. There will likely be significant promotional opportunities after Easter once they clean up and volume peaks in early April especially on the superior Green Globe variety.

nettspill

MARCH MADNESS

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As we turn the calendar there are blizzard conditions around the country but most growing areas seem to be stabilizing. California,after posting a historic amount of frost days the past few months temperatures warm near normal and should allow the plants to start growing through the quality issues caused by Mother Nature. Not to say quality will return quickly because with some commodities the worst is yet to come (Romaine Lettuce). But many items will begin to see production increases and allow for promotional opportunities. 

Weather forecast for the California Coast (norms:65/44-48) after aweek of cold frosty mornings next week forecast temperaturesstabilize near normal but light precipitation possible towards the end of the week and the following week.  The Desert and Central Mexico  (norms:78/45) should have seen the last of the frosty lowtemperatures  and expect high’s to reach the 80’s early next week but  possible low pressure system next weekend with a chance of showers and cooler weather the following week. Central Floridaforecast temperatures are expected to be near normal the next couple weeks. (norm:76/55lo) with an occasional Thunder shower.

Transportation continues to be steady with some midweek discounts. Fuel prices continue to climb which has not allowed rates drop. Plan ahead for best value and service.


****WARNING**** Extended below freezing temperatures have resulted in blister, peel and discoloration issues on most vegetable commodities along with occasional decay.  


CELERY- The celery market has begun to adjust as volume from Florida has increased eroding demand from California which has been relatively steady. Quality continues to show signs of frost damage including pith and blackheart and will continue to have varying degrees of issues depending on production location.  Production in California is not expected to increase significantly and may even decrease as desert production winds down. As the market adjusts look to take advantage of special offers  before the market firms back up.

STRAWBERRIES- Production has peaked from Mexico and Florida . Southern Californian Coast  continues to wait on warmer weather to get production increasing . The forecast for warmer weather this weekend should help. Although possible rain in two weeks may disrupt production.  Florida production has slowed but quality will benefit from cooling temperatures. Mexico production will likely continue to decrease before finishing for the season in a couple weeks. Raspberries continue to be in short supply although production should increase as the weather warms. Stems should become more available as well . Blackberries are available but supplies and quality will rapidly decrease in coming weeks from Mexico.

LETTUCE- Supplies continue to fluctuate with weather and quality. Size and weights are off significantly. Misshapen heads along with blister and peel appear to be the norm. Shippers will continue to strip down most affected leaves but that will increase mechanical issues and create further discoloration and breakdown. There are substantial discounts on 30’s with most shippers running heavy percentage of smaller lettuce.  The market on 24’s will slowly ease as the 30’s will absorb any decline in demand.

LEAF LETTUCE-  Quality continues to suffer from blister, peel, discoloration and occasional decay. Romaine continues to be much tighter than the colors as the market has already adjusted significantly on the colors. With additional frost this past week Romaine supplies tightened and the market advanced higher.  Quality issues from frost will peak next week. After next week the range in quality will begin to widen depending on growing location as some areas received more frost than others. Romaine hearts continue to offer a better value with slightly fewer condition defects and slightly lower pricing. Quality issues from frost damage will continue to exist through the remainder of the desert deal and likely extend into the Spring .


CITRUS- Navel production continues with good volume and improving flavor and sizing profiles. Recent freezes have had minor impact on production so far only to increase choice offerings although packout is still heaviest towards fancy.  Steady increase in production will translate to better values as the season progresses.

CAULIFLOWER-  Even with a return of cooler weather production started to rise. With warmer weather predicted this weekend look for another surge in production next week.  Look for promotional volume in 9 size as the weather heats up. Quality has been mostly good.

BROCCOLI- Quality along the coast is improving  while quality in the desert and Mexico continues to be good. Warmer weather and additional production from California Central Valley will increase supplies next week. Continuing to monitor quality will be important depending on loading location.

ASPARAGUS- Production from Mexico is finally starting to increase  while Peru’s volume has continued to decline. Mexico has started primarily packing 28# as production has increased. The market is currently adjusting  down but will stabilize with the start of the Easter pull by mid March. Shippers  are now currently offering ads for Easter. An early Easter Holiday will get retailers to promote heavily so get in on advanced deals while they are available.

GRAPES-   Shipments are increasing again this week from Chile with better sizing expected especially the Reds although there continues to be a wide range in quality with discounts available on off quality packs.

CARROTS-  Carrot production has been steady.  The market is steady locally with bulk supplies from Mexico  continuing to keep pressure on the market.

ARTICHOKES- Currently most artichokes are “frosted”  and shippers  are offering discounts to keep them moving.  Supplies will start to increase by next week and shippers  are hoping frosted chokes give way to “clean” artichokes for Easter Promotions.

INCONSISTENT WEATHER AND MARKETS

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One day gorgeous sunshine in the desert, the next a blanket of snow,  The Winter weather pattern continues to be all over the board although currently well below normal for this time of year.These ranges in temperatures have made for inconsistent quality and supplies. March should bring some warmer weather  and with it more stable supplies. 

Weather forecast for the California Coast (norms:64/43-48) After a cold week the temperatures stabilize next week before finallywarming above normal as we head into March.  The Desert and CentralMexico  (norms:77/44-46lo) follow a similar pattern with high temperaturesexpected to reach the 80’s by the end of next week. As with recent weeksCentral Florida forecast  has been the exact opposite of California where temperatures are expected to be mostly below normal the next couple weeks.(norm:75/54lo) 

Transportation continues to be steady with some midweek discounts. Fuel prices are starting to climb which will eventually have an effect on rates.  Plan ahead for best value and service.


****WARNING**** Extended below freezing temperatures have resulted in blister, peel and discoloration issues on most vegetable commodities along with occasional decay.  


CELERY- The celery market has begun to adjust as volume from Florida has increased eroding demand from California which has been relatively steady. Quality continues to show signs of frost damage including pith and blackheart and will continue to have varying degrees of issues depending on production location.  Production in California is not expected to increase significantly and may even decrease as desert production winds down. As the market adjusts look to take advantage of special offers  before the market firms back up.

STRAWBERRIES- Production has peaked from Mexico and Florida . Southern Californian Coast production continues to be hampered by sporadic rain and colder than normal weather and misshapen fruit as a result of the previous frosty conditions. The forecast for warmer weather by the end of next week should get production to increase.  Florida production has slowed but quality will benefit from cooling temperatures starting next week.  Raspberries continue to be in short supply although production should increase as the weather warms. Stems should become more available as well . Blackberries are available and offer a good value.

LETTUCE- Supplies continue to fluctuate with weather and quality. Size and weights are off significantly. Misshapen heads along with blister and peel appear to be the norm. Shippers will continue to strip down most affected leaves but that will increase mechanical issues and create further discoloration and breakdown. The market should peak out early next week before warmer weather gets production and quality to rebound. .

LEAF LETTUCE-  Quality continues to suffer from blister, peel, discoloration and occasional decay. Romaine continues to be much tighter than the colors but the market has already adjusted significantly on the colors. Romaine adjusted slightly last week but more cold weather tightened supplies again. Quality issues from frost are now peaking causing shippers to strip down the Romaine into hearts which will further pressure the heart market to adjust. You’ll see with many shippers a continued  trend of discounting hearts more  than carton Romaine. Quality issues will persist through the remainder of the desert deal and likely to extend into the Spring .


CITRUS- Navel production continues with good volume and improving flavor and sizing profiles. Recent freezes have had minor impact on production so far only to increase choice offerings.  Steady increase in production will translate to better values as the season progresses.

CAULIFLOWER-  A return of cooler weather again slowed production last week and the market has regained strength. There will likely  be another surge in production by the end of the month.  Look for promotional volume in 9 size as the weather heats up. . Quality has been mostly good .

BROCCOLI- Quality along the coast is improving  while quality in the desert and Mexico continues to be good. With the return of colder than normal weather the market jumped significantly this past week and should advance through early next week before warmer weather and additional production from California Central Valley will start next week.  Continuing to monitor quality will be important depending on loading location.

ASPARAGUS- Production from Mexico is finally starting to increase  while Peru’s volume has continued to drop. There are a significant amount of  early season ad promotions that will stabilize the market in the short term but look for increased volume and lower pricing as the weather warms by the end of next week. 28 # will also become more available.  Most shippers are still hesitant to offer Easter ads just yet but as production schedules start to come into focus promotional offers will be abundantly available as most shippers are optimistic about supplies once the weather warms.   An early Easter Holiday will get retailers to promote heavily so get in on advanced deals when available.

GRAPES- Limited shipments from Chile  have kept the market strong especially the Red varietals . Shipments are  increasing again this week with better sizing expected especially  the Reds .  Look for better supplies and deals available by the end of the month

CARROTS-  Carrot production has been steady.  The market is steady locally and  bulk supplies from Mexico  continue to keep pressure on the market to maintain.

ARTICHOKES- Currently most supplies of artichokes are “frosted”  and shippers  are offering discounts to keep them moving.  Supplies will start to increase by next week and shippers  are hoping frosted chokes give way to “clean” artichokes for Easter Promotions.

Presidents Day

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Direction of markets continue to be dictated by Mother Nature. Whether warm thunderstorms in Florida, Cold nights in the California deserts or windy, foggy conditions along the California coast. On opposite ends of the country Florida has been unseasonably warm for the past month other than this past weekends frost warnings whereas California has been unseasonably cold with a few exceptionally warm days this past weekend. These ranges  in temperatures have made for inconsistent quality and supplies. The good news is March should bring some stability and with it promotable supplies. 



Weather forecast for the California Coast (norms:64/42-46) After a warm weekend in the 70′s cold weather returns for the balance of the month withhighs in the upper 50’s and low’s in the 30’s with occasional scattered showers. The Desert and Central Mexico  (norms:75/42-46lo) follow a similar pattern with high temperatures expected to be in the 60’s and low’s  in the upper 30’s with potential low 30’s again next week but dry. Central Florida forecast after a cold weekend with frost a return to slightly above normal temps (norm:75/53lo) for the forecast window.

Transportation continues to be steady with some midweek discounts. Fuelprices are starting to climb which will eventually have an effect on rates. Plan ahead for best value and service.


****WARNING**** Extended below freezing temperatures have resulted in blister, peel and discoloration issues on most vegetable commodities along with occasional decay.  


CELERY- The celery market continues to see strength as good demand and reduced acreage combine to keep market active. Quality continues to show signs of frost damage including pith and will continue to have varying degrees of issues depending on production location. With fair quality occasional discounts have been available to ensure product doesn’t age in inventory.  Limited quantities being grown in the desert continue to result in a wide ranging market due to the fact most celery is transferred to Yuma for consolidation. The best values will continue to come from Oxnard.

STRAWBERRIES- Production has peaked from Mexico and Florida . Southern Californian Coast production continues to be hampered by colder than normal weather and misshapen fruit as a result of the previous frosty conditions. A few days of warmer weather this past weekend may help spur production but a return of colder than normal temps and occasional scattered showers will keep West Coast production in check through the end of the month when production should start to ramp up considerably. Florida production has slowed and quality will start to decline  especially with any additional thunderstorms and continued above average temps. Raspberries continue to be in short supply. Blackberries are available and offer a good value.  Stems continue to be very limited.

LETTUCE- Production has increased but quality continues to be just fair with blister and peel.  Shippers will try to strip down most affected leaves but that will increase mechanical issues and create further discoloration and breakdown. If quality is not too bad lettuce demand will again pick up and combined with cooler weather the market will continue to rebound..

LEAF LETTUCE-  Quality continues to suffer from blister, peel, discoloration and occasional decay. Romaine continues to be much tighter than the colors but the market has already adjusted significantly on the colors but Romaine products are now beginning to see significant adjustment  as competition from iceberg is having an impact. Quality issues from frost are now peaking causing shippers to strip down the Romaine into hearts which will further pressure the heart market to adjust. You’ll see with many shippers a  trend of discounting hearts more  than carton Romaine. Quality issues will persist through the remainder of the desert deal and likely to extend into the Spring .


CITRUS- Navel production continues with good volume and improving flavor and sizing profiles. Recent freezes have had minor impact on production so far only to increase choice offerings.  Steady increase in production will translate to better values as the season progresses.

CAULIFLOWER-  A return of cooler weather again slowed production last week and the market has regained strength. There likely won’t be another surge in production until the end of the month. Quality has been mostly good .

BROCCOLI- Quality along the coast is improving  while quality in the desert and Mexico continues to be good. The market bottomed out last week and with the return of colder than normal weather and will advance through most of this week. Additional production from California Central Valley will start next week which should keep the market from escalating too high although cooler weather will tighten supplies especially in the desert  but too many production areas will keep a lid on overall market  Wide ranging quality will make it necessary to watch quality depending on loading location.

ASPARAGUS- Production from Mexico is finally starting to increase but at a minimal rate while Peru’s volume has continued to drop. There are a significant amount of  early season ad promotions that will stabilize the market in the short term but look for increased volume and lower pricing as the weather warms. Most shippers are hesitant to offer Easter ads just yet but as production schedules start to come into focus promotional offers will be abundantly available as most shippers are optimistic about supplies once the weather warms.  An early Easter Holiday will get retailers to promote heavily so get in on advanced deals when available.

GRAPES- Limited shipments from Chile and Peru have kept the market strong especially the Red varietals. Shipments are  increasing again this week with better sizing expected especially  the Reds . Red globe and most Green varietals with the best quality continues to come from Chile

CARROTS-  Carrot production has been steady.  The market is steady locally and  bulk supplies from Mexico  continue to keep pressure on the market to maintain.

ARTICHOKES- Currently most supplies of artichokes are “frosted”  and shippers  are offering discounts to keep them moving.  Supplies will start to increase by next week and shippers  are hoping frosted chokes give way to “clean” artichokes for Easter Promotions.

Weekend Update

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Quick update on weather and markets around the country for the weekend. 


Weather forecast for the California Coast (norms:64/42-46) calls for Fridayshowers and below normal continuing into next week and falling well below normal for much of the month especially the lows. The desert and CentralMexico  (norms:74/40-46lo) are expected to be dry but cool this weekend and continuing to be well below nor
mal  through the end of the month especially the lows with potential frost warnings for the next 2 weeks.  Central Florida forecast slightly above normal (norm:74/52lo) for the forecast window. The Northeast is expected to get hit with ablizzard this weekend before returning to normal but still cold for the balance of the month. 

Transportation continues to be steady with some midweek discounts. Fuelprices are starting to climb which will eventually have an effect on rates. Plan ahead for best value and service.


****WARNING**** Extended below freezing temperatures have resulted in blister, peel and discoloration issues on most vegetable commodities along with occasional decay.  


CELERY- The celery market continues to see strength as good demand and reduced acreage combine to keep market active. Quality has been showing signs of frost damage of late and will continue to have varying degrees of issues depending on production location. Limited quantities being grown in the desert continue to result in a wide ranging market due to the fact most celery is transferred to Yuma for consolidation. The best values will continue to come from Oxnard.

STRAWBERRIES- Production has peaked from Mexico and Florida . Southern Californian Coast production was starting to ramp up for Valentine Day commitments but recent showers may interrupt harvest for a few critical days. Hoping for dry weather next week but likely still below normal temps will keep production in check and market active. Stems continue to be very limited.

LEAF LETTUCE-  Quality continues to suffer from Blister, peel, discoloration and occasional decay. Some shippers are still quoting acceptance final on Romaine. The market has adjusted on the colors but Romaine products continue to be very tight. With further frost potential in the forecast continued quality issue will persist through the remainder of the desert deal and likely to extend into the Spring


CITRUS- Navel production continues with good volume and improving flavor and sizing profiles. Recent freezes have had minimal impact on either quality or production only to increase choice offerings.  Steady increase in production will translate to better values as the season progresses.

CAULIFLOWER- The market appears to have bottomed out.  Cooler weather forecast will slow production next week and the market will likely advance. Quality has been mostly good . Take advantage of  any deals available early next week

BROCCOLI- Quality along the coast is improving  while quality in the desert and Mexico continue to be ok- good. With the improved but still fair quality comes an increase in supply. The market looks to be bottoming out next week as additional production from California Central Valley will start back up. Cooler weather may have an effect on pricing but too many production areas will keep a lid on overall market  Wide ranging quality will make it necessary to watch quality depending on loading location.

LETTUCE- Production has increased but Quality will  continue to be the overriding concern for the next 3 plus weeks.  Shippers will try to strip down most affected leaves but that will increase mechanical issues and create further discoloration and breakdown. Lettuce demand has dropped with quality and East coast weather slowing sales. Cooler weather may slow production enough to have market rebound by the end of next week.

ASPARAGUS- Production from Mexico is finally starting to increase although  Peru’s volume has continued to drop. There are a significant amount of ad promotions that will stabilize the market in the short term but look for increased volume and lower pricing after Valentines Day. 28 pound packs will also become available unless the forecast of cooler weather extends into production areas in Central Mexico. An early Easter Holiday will get retailers to promote heavily so get in on advanced deals while available.

GRAPES- Limited shipments from Chile and Peru have kept the market strong especially the Red varietals. Shipments are  increasing this week with better sizing especially  the Reds . Red globe and most Green varietals with the best quality continues to come from Chile

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NO SHADOW

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Phil says an early Spring is on it’s way. The good news is we’re seeing some markets adjusting but quality will continue to be a concern on most veg items especially leafy veg. Some shippers are quoting leaf acceptance final even with decay on arrival. As long as there is a strong shortages these terms will have teeth but supplies should start to increase by the end of this week although quality might not improve overnight pricing and terms will be increasingly flexible. We suggest buy minimum quantities until quality improves.



Weather forecast for the California Coast (norms:64/40-46) calls for slightly below normal next week and falling below normal for much of the month especially the lows. Light precipitation expected mid week but otherwise fairly dry. The desert and Central Mexico  (norms:72-74/40-46lo) are expected to be dry and above normal early this week before dropping below normal through the middle of the month especially the lows. 
Central Florida forecast normal (norm:72/50lo) for the forecast window. 

Transportation continues to be steady with some midweek discounts. Plan ahead for best value and service.


****WARNING**** Extended below freezing temperatures have resulted in blister, peel and discoloration issues on most vegetable commodities along with occasional decay.  


CELERY- The celery market continues to see strength as good demand and reduced acreage combine to keep market active. Quality has been showing signs of frost damage of late and will continue to have varying degrees of issues depending on production location. Limited quantities being grown in the desert continue to result in a wide ranging market due to the fact most celery is transferred to Yuma for consolidation. The best values will continue to come from Oxnard.

STRAWBERRIES- Production has peaked from Mexico and Florida . Southern Californian Coast production was stalled with last weeks showers causing an uptick in pricing which also affected pricing in Florida.  With showers still possible this week in California  and production peaked in Florida and Texas combined with Valentines promotions  the market is strengthening daily.  Quality from Florida has been good but extended warm days have softened the fruit slightly. California was  improving daily  before last weekends rain temporary setback. Stems will be available but limited mainly out of California with sizing limiting Florida and Mexico from producing stems.  Raspberry production  has stalled with most production out West and the market is very active on limited supply. Blackberries quality has fallen off lately causing some poor arrivals although quality should improve next week.

LEAF LETTUCE-  Quality continues to suffer and with recent rains quality has further declined especially Romaine. Some shippers are even quoting acceptance final but that may only last for another week as buyers , especially retailers and high end food service can’t use products that breakdown rapidly.   The market looks to to active early this week but likely will start easing  on colors although  Romaine and Hearts  may take a few more days.

BRUSSELS SPROUT- Production from Mexico has been slow since the cold weather the last 3 weeks.  Supplies should slowly rebound over the next couple weeks and the market should stabilize. Quality has been good out of Mexico.

GREEN ONIONS-  Production continues to be slowed by labor and weather . The market has been relatively steady. Anticipated increase in production is still expected by weeks end. Look for the market to ease by next week. .

CARROTS- Carrot production has been steady.  The market is steady locally but an influx in bulk supplies continue from Mexico keeping pressure on bulk packs. Demand at retail may start to drop off as many of the promotional events have past. 


CITRUS- Navel production continues with good volume and improving flavor and sizing profiles. Recent freezes have had minimal impact on either quality or production only to increase choice offerings.  Steady increase in production will translate to better values as the season progresses.

CAULIFLOWER- The market corrected rapidly last week as supplies increased and demand fell. Look for continued softness in the market this week before supplies stabilize next week. Quality has been mostly good with some epidermal peel on jacket.

BROCCOLI- Quality along the coast is improving  while quality in the desert and Mexico continue to be ok- good. With the improved but still fair quality comes an increase in supply. The market looks to be adjusting this week with a wide range in quotes depending on quality and location.  You’ll continue to find steeper discounts on Mexican Crowns and Coastal broccoli but beware of wide ranging quality.

LETTUCE- Production should start to increase from the desert  but Quality will  continue to be the overriding concern for the next 3 plus weeks.  Shippers will try to strip down most affected leaves but that will increase mechanical issues and create further discoloration and breakdown. If lettuce stops moving at retail due to quality rejections then the market will slide significantly otherwise it will continue to gradually ease down as temperatures warm.

ASPARAGUS- Production from Mexico is finally starting to increase although  Peru’s volume has continued to drop. There are a significant amount of ad promotions that will stabilize the market in the short term but look for increased volume and lower pricing after Valentines Day. 28 # packs will also become available. An early Easter Holiday will get retailers to promote heavily so get in on advanced deals while available.

GRAPES- Limited shipments from Chile and Peru have kept the market strong especially the Red varietals. Shipments are expected to increase this week with better sizing especially  the Reds . Red globe and most Green varietals with the best quality continues to come from Chile.