****WARNING**** Seasonal cold temperatures have resulted in harvest delays due to ice. This will eventually lead to blister,peel and discoloration issues on most vegetable commodities especially leaf and lettuce.
As mentioned in previous “Trends”, weather is the driving force with the Western veg markets and this year is no exception. Two weeks of below normal temperatures with ice has slowed growth on ALL veg items. Budgeted supplies previously ahead of schedule created an initial excess early combined with labor shortages has turned potential “shortages” into “gaps” for many items . The icy temps are forecast to hang around for another week. In addition to the lack of supplies quality is taking a HUGE turn for the worse.**** WARNING**** BLISTER , PEEL amp; DISCOLORATION will be the norm with many commodities especially artichokes,romaine, leaf and lettuce but also celery, broccoli , green onions, etc… creating further “availability” issues as product arrives.Weather for most of the West Coast (norms: 62-65hi/38-45lo) has been below normal by 10-12 degrees with continuous icy conditions for the past 2 weeks. The forecast is to continue the below normal temps for another week bottoming out this weekend with season low temps before high pressure and warmer weather arrives next week. The deserts have had a similar pattern (norms:70hi/37-42lo) with 10-12 degrees below normal with morning icy conditions. ALL locations have had icy/frost with late harvest starting times which has begun the blister/peel cycle. Cold but dry weather is expected to last for another week bottoming out this weekend with season low temps but with a possible return to near normal temps by the middle of the month. Soil temperatures are at a season low, 6-12 degrees below the range needed for normal growth. It will take a week of above normal weather to get soil temps to rise. Central Florida and Mexico berry growing regions are expected to have above normal weather (72hi/50lo) with occasional isolated showers the next couple weeks. Transportation rates are expected to ease down the next couple weeks with lighter supplies and fewer shipments out west. Plan ahead to get the best value and service available. ****WARNING**** Seasonal cold temperatures have resulted in harvest delays due to ice. This will eventually lead to blister,peel and discoloration issues on most vegetable commodities especially leaf and lettuce. BROCCOLI- Cooler weather along the coast and in the desert will continue to have an effect on supplies. Previous rain along the coast had degraded quality with widespread pin rot and water spotting making much of the broccoli not suitable to ship East. The desert has been 1-2 weeks ahead of schedule for most of the season and now we’re seeing gaps in production due to the cold weather. There will be increasing supplies coming from alternate growing districts such as Nogales, Mexico but even those areas have seen below normal temperatures. The market will peak, especially on crowns, by the early next week. CAULIFLOWER- With the cooler weather the cauliflower market has finally started to get active. Quality has mostly been good with some reports of mold spots and bruising. Most expect the market to peak for another couple weeks. ****WARNING****LETTUCE- Production has begun to slow and quality is starting to diminish. Bottom rot and now blister and peel issues will become prevalent , causing lighter color with discoloration on arrival . ALL shippers have contract clauses that prevent inspections to count blister as a scoreable defect although if serious enough decay will become an issue which is scoreable. The market will likely jump initially but if quality issues persist then sales will start to slow. Order minimum quantities until quality improves. ****WARNING****LEA ASPARAGUS- Market continues to be active with limited supplies coming in from Mexico and Peru. Increased shipments should help supplies but strong demand will keep pressure on the market to remain high. BRUSSELS SPROUT- Production from California has all but finished but Mexico production is well underway. Recent cold weather will slow production slightly and the market is likely to firm. Quality will be significantly better from Mexico. GREEN ONION- Supplies have been limited mainly due to labor in Mexico but also with light rain a couple weeks ago continuing with cold weather the last few weeks and the lack of labor available needed to harvest the Green Onions during the Holidays the market has been very active with limited supplies. Continued cool weather will assist in being able to hold the product in the field until sufficient labor starts returning this week but even with the cool weather expect better supplies of small green onions by the end of the week. CARROTS- Carrot production has been steady but starting to slow with seasonally cold weather. The market is steady locally but an influx in bulk supplies from Mexico have deals on bulk packs. Good demand through the heavy promotional period should help maintain pricing especially for the retail packs. CITRUS- Navel production continues with good volume and improving flavor and sizing profiles. Recent cold weather has yet to have an impact on either quality or production. Steady increase in production will translate to better values as the season progresses. STRAWBERRIES- Production is increasing mainly from Mexico and Florida. Central Coast California production is still very limited with quality not suitable to ship East although better quality is expected from production areas on the Southern Coast within a couple weeks The market continues to adjust until promotions start to get consumer demand peaking once again. Quality from Florida and Mexico is improving daily and shippers are optimistic quality will be sufficient for promotions. Raspberry production has stalled with most production out West and the market is very active on limited supply. Blackberries primarily from Mexico continue offer a good value |
HAPPY NEW YEAR
Weather continues to be the hot topic or cold topic in this case. Weather from coast to coast is cold with plenty of rain amp; snow. Temperatures in most western growing areas continues to be wet amp; below normal with Snow storms throughout the Midwest and East making for an extended White Christmas season. As the cold weather in the West has slowed production , cold weather throughout the country has slowed sales.
Weather for most of the West Coast (64hi/36-45lo) growing regions has been wet and cold . The deserts (68/39) have seen limited rain but have had a week of well below normal temperatures. Most locations have had frost with late harvest starting times which has begun the blister/peel cycle. Cold but dry weather is expected to last for the next 3 weeks with only a possible brief return to normal temps Jan 8-12th before dropping below normal for the balance of the month. Soil temperatures continue to drop below the range where normal growth occurs. Central Florida berry growing region is expected to have normal weather (72hi/50lo) with occasional thunder showers the next couple weeks.
Strong Holiday business provided the demand for Transportation rates to stay steady and with some trucks not reloading until after New Years rates unexpectedly rose this week but with lighter demand and supplies out west rates should roll back. With the weather in the Midwest and in the East in decline delivery schedules will be in flex.Plan ahead to get the best value and service available.
****WARNING**** Seasonal cold temperatures have resulted in harvest delays due to ice. This will eventually lead to blister,peel and discoloration issues on most vegetable commodities especially leaf and lettuce.
BROCCOLI- Cooler weather along the coast and in the Central Valley and now in the desert will continue to have an effect on supplies. Rain along the coast has degraded quality with widespread pin rot and water spotting making much of the broccoli not suitable to ship East. Central Valley supplies have also diminished from quality and production gaps. The desert has been 1-2 weeks ahead of schedule for most of the season and now we’re seeing gaps in production. There will still be supplies coming from alternate growing districts such as Nogales, Mexico but even those areas have seen below normal temperatures. The market will spike , especially on crowns , through next week.
CAULIFLOWER- With the cooler weather the cauliflower market has unexpectedly NOT been overly active but look for that to change with the continued cold forecast. Quality has mostly been good with some reports of mold spots and bruising. There are currently values on off size 16 count but even those will start to disappear rapidly
****WARNING****LETTUCE- Production has begun to slow and quality is starting to diminish. Bottom rot and now blister and peel issues will become prevalent , causing lighter color with discoloration on arrival . ALL shippers have contract clauses that prevent inspections to count blister as a scoreable defect although if serious enough decay will become an issue which is scoreable. The market will likely jump initially but if quality issues persist then sales will start to slow. Order minimum quantities until quality improves.
****WARNING****LEAF LETTUCE- Similar to Iceberg lettuce , abundant supply will start to ease but quality will be the biggest issue with blister, peel and discoloration. Romaine has also begun to be ribby which eventually leads to mechanical damage and pink rib. Look for the market to get active but shopping for the product least affected by the frost will be necessary.
GREEN ONION- Supplies have been limited mainly due to labor in Mexico but also with light rain last week continuing with cold weather this week and the lack of labor available needed to harvest the Green Onions the market has been very active with limited supplies. Cooler weather will assist in being able to hold the product in the field until sufficient labor returns BUT traditionally not until AFTER New Years. Even with the cool weather expect better supplies of small green onions by the end of next week and eventually jump into the bearish section of PWT.
CARROTS- Carrot production has been steady but could start to slow with seasonally cold weather. The market is steady locally but an influx in bulk supplies from Mexico have deals on bulk packs. Good demand through the heavy Holiday promotional period should help maintain pricing especially for the retail packs.
CELERY- The celery market continues to see strength as good demand and reduced acreage combine to keep market active. Quality has been very nice with medium sizes becoming more prevalent. 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.
ASPARAGUS- Market continues to be active with limited supplies coming in from Mexico and Peru. Increased shipments should help supplies but strong demand will keep pressure on the market to remain high.
BRUSSELS SPROUT- Supplies continue to be strong with good demand. Take advantage of good promotional pricing through next month.
CITRUS- Navel production continues with good volume and improving flavor and sizing profiles. Steady increase in production will translate to better values as the season progresses.
STRAWBERRIES- Production is finally starting to increase mainly from Mexico and Florida. Coastal California production is still very limited with quality not suitable to ship East. The market has begun to adjust until promotions start to get consumer demand peaking once again. Quality from Florida and Mexico is improving daily and shippers are optimistic quality will be sufficient for promotions. Raspberry production has stalled with most production out West and the market is very active on limited supply. Blackberries primarily from Mexico continue offer a good value.
MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL
We all survived the end of civilization and weather around the country is reminding us that now we can get on with the official start of Winter. Even though Mr Snow Miser is touring across the country his brother (Yes, you know ) is trying to hold onto his territory in the Southwest deserts, where most of our Winter vegetables are grown. In the meantime Hopefully we all get the opportunity to enjoy time with friends and family during the Holidays.
Weather for most of the West Coast growing regions has started to cool with the first frost of the season hitting the desert yesterday. Cold, dry weather along the Coast, Santa Maria to San Diego will begin to see rain in the forecast through Christmas before turning below normal again for an extended period. Normals for the coast range 63-65hi/38-44lo. The desert should see a similar pattern of normal temperatures (normal 68-70/38-42lo) but without any significant precipitation next week before falling 5-10 degrees by next weekend. Soil temperatures are also starting to drop below the range where normal growth occurs. Central Florida berry growing region is expected to have Normal weather (72hi/50lo) with occasional thunder showers the next couple weeks.
Stronger Holiday business provided the demand for Transportation rates to stay steady but with lighter demand and supplies out west rates should continue to roll back. With the weather in the Midwest and now the East in decline and limited Holiday loading schedules be sure to plan ahead to get the best value and service available.
BROCCOLI- Cooler weather along the coast and in the Central Valley and now in the desert will continue to have an effect on supplies. There will still be supplies coming from all growing districts but with much of the crop ahead of schedule and unsettled weather pattern the market will continue to have upside. The quality from most growing areas is comparable but some signs of pin rot are still showing up on Salinas broccoli and occasionally in Santa Maria as well. There are volume deals available but not as widespread as last week and will likely further tighten next week.
CAULIFLOWER- The market eased off it’s Holiday high but similar to broccoli look for the market to strengthen next week with cooler weather . There are fewer growing districts than broccoli so the market will be more elastic .
GREEN ONION- Supplies have been limited mainly due to labor in Mexico. Starting with light rain last week and now continuing with Holidays there is a lack of labor available needed to harvest the Green Onions. Cooler weather will assist in being able to hold the product in the field until sufficient labor returns BUT traditionally not until AFTER New Years.
CARROTS- Carrot production has been steady but could start to slow with seasonally coldweather. The market is steady locally but an influx in bulk supplies from Mexico have deals on bulk packs. Good demand through the heavy Holiday promotional period should help maintain pricing especially for the retail packs.
LETTUCE- Production continues to be heavy with good quality. The cooler weather will eventually have an impact but likely not until the end of next week. Quality has been very nice on lettuce harvested ahead of schedule. Some quality issues continue to be reported on lettuce harvested over mature mainly over sizing, bottom rot and discoloration. Continue to monitor weights as the best guide to quality.
LEAF LETTUCE- Good supplies of all leaf continue to saturate the market. Quality is very good from all desert districts although recent isolated frost will start to have an impact on quality starting with blister and eventually leading to peel and discoloration.The effects won’t be seen for another week or two but may persist as cold weather dictates. Look for the market to get more active by the weekend on product NOT affected by frost.
CELERY- The celery market continues to see strength as good demand and reduced acreage combine to keep market active. Quality has been very nice with larger sizes becoming more prevalent. 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.
ASPARAGUS- Market continues to be active with limited supplies coming in from Mexico and Peru. Increased shipments should help supplies but strong Holiday demand will keep pressure on the market to remain high.
BRUSSELS SPROUT- Supplies continue to be strong with good demand. Take advantage of good promotional pricing through next month.
CITRUS- Navel production continues with good volume and improving flavor and sizing profiles. Steady increase in production will translate to better values as the season progresses.
STRAWBERRIES- Production is finally starting to increase mainly from Mexico and Florida. Coastal California production is still very limited with quality not suitable to ship East. The market has begun to adjust and will continue to adjust until promotions start to get consumer demand peaking once again. Quality from Florida and Mexico is improving daily and shippers are optimistic quality will be sufficient for promotions. Raspberry production has stalled with most production out West and the market is very active on limited supply. Blackberries primarily from Mexico continue offer a good value.
And TO ALL A GOOD NIGHT !
HOLIDAY SCHEDULE
The Holiday veggy shopping season has gotten off to a good start with good supplies of most Holiday items. That could change as we enter into a seasonally heavy demand period for snacking fruits and vegetables. With office, New Years and Super Bowl parties not to mention those annual dieters , fruits and veggies will command more attention. Warm weather on the West Coast has provided an abundant supply of produce the past few weeks. But now the weather has started to cool and most commodities will start to get back on schedule. Lighter supplies and possible higher prices are expected on some items while providing opportunities for promoting other commodities.
Weather for most of the West Coast growing regions has started to cool especially the night time low temps. Along the Coast, Santa Maria to San Diego will be slightly below normal (63hi/39-42lo) this week before dropping 5-8 degrees next week with possible scattered showers throughout the week. Temps are forecast to remain below normal through the first week of January. The Desert and Central Mexico will be near normal (68hi/38-40lo) this week, dropping below normal next week with possible freeze for Christmas week. Rain becomes a possibility for the desert starting 12/29. Central Florida berry growing region is expected to have Normal weather (73hi/52lo) other than one strong cold front expected to bring significant rain followed by cool temps this weekend otherwise an occasional thunder storm and near normal the next couple weeks.
Stronger Holiday business provided the demand for Transportation rates to stay steady but with lighter demand and supplies out west rates should continue to roll back but plan ahead to get the best value and service available.
LETTUCE- Production has peaked as the weather has been ideal . Slightly cooler weather will steady production and eventually lead to lighter supplies as cold weather will allow shippers the flexibility to hold lettuce a few extra days before harvest if needed. Shippers will also be quick to raise prices to ensure covering contracts. Quality has been very nice on lettuce harvested ahead of schedule. Some quality issues were reported on lettuce harvested over mature..
LEAF LETTUCE- Good supplies of all leaf will continue to saturate the market. Quality is very good from all desert districts. Possible frost is expected next week would could start the cycle of blister and peel although the effects won’t be seen for a couple weeks after the first frost. Continue to promote with confidence.
BROCCOLI- Cooler weather along the coast and in the Central Valley over the weekend has led to lighter supplies. Combined with Holiday demand the market has reacted upward. There will still be supplies coming from all growing districts which will keep prices from getting out of control but as long as cool , unsettled weather pattern is predominant then the market will continue to have upside. The quality from most growing areas is comparable but some signs of pin rot are still showing up on Salinas broccoli. There are volume deals available but not as widespread as last week.
CAULIFLOWER- The market has reacted to a week of strong demand and cooler weather along the coast. There will be available supplies early this week but may tighten with continued strong Holiday demand and cooler weather. Quality has been excellent.
GREEN ONION- Supplies have been abundant but with good demand. Traditionally supplies become limited during the Holidays due to labor and logistical issues out of Mexico. The market has already reacted anticipating lighter supplies and has possible upside through the New Year. Good values continue to be on smaller sizes and Iceless packs which have an extended shelf life due to the breathable film.
CARROTS- Carrot production has been steady but could start to slow with seasonally cold weather. The market is steady with possible upside with good demand which will continue through the heavy Holiday promotional period.
CELERY- The celery market continues to see strength as good demand and reduced acreage combine to keep market active. Quality has been very nice with larger sizes becoming more prevalent. 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.
ASPARAGUS- Market continues to be active with limited supplies coming in from Mexico and Peru. Increased shipments should help supplies but strong Holiday demand will keep pressure on the market to remain high.
BRUSSELS SPROUT- Supplies continue to be strong with good demand. Take advantage of good promotional pricing through next month.
CITRUS- Navel production continues with good volume and improving flavor and sizing profiles. Steady increase in production will translate to better values as the season progresses.
STRAWBERRIES- Continued scattered showers through most growing areas have kept an already tight supply even tighter. With Oxnard production disrupted due to previous rains and now cooler weather the market has been exceptionally strong with a seasonal low in volume due to limited starts in Mexico and Florida. The good news is production in Mexico and Florida are expected to increase throughout the week BUT may get disrupted again by more unsettled weather. Either way the market has likely peaked and available supplies will again be available soon. Continue to bring in minimum quantities until consistent quality can be seen. Bruising , inconsistent color and occasional soft rot are the issues currently. Raspberry production should also improve going forward. Blackberries primarily from Mexico continue offer a good value.
AHEAD OF THE CURVE
As we settle into the Winter season much of the country has yet to experience any severe cold weather. California and Arizona have been no exception. Ideal weather in most growing regions have led to a surplus in many vegetable categories due to crops maturing earlier than normal. This excess makes for a great opportunity to promote more veggies. So take advantage while supplies are at their peak because with the short days and possible seasonal cold weather lurking excess supplies could turn into temporary shortages quickly.
Transportation rates have been edging down with favorable conditions the past few weeks. Trucks have been easily making arrivals and often arriving too early with no weather impeding their travel east. Stronger Holiday business could steady rates but plan ahead to get the best value and service available.
LETTUCE- Yuma production continues to run 1 to 2 weeks ahead of schedule . Strong supplies have led to a very weak market. Some shippers are trying to hold on and harvest EVERYTHING but the better quality is coming from shippers jumping ahead before the lettuce over matures. Monitoring weights is the best indicator of quality. Being ahead of schedule will eventually lead to tighter supplies once the weather cools off which could possibly happen by the middle of next week.
LEAF LETTUCE- Good supplies of all leaf will continue to saturate the market. Quality is very good even Romaine hearts are starting to see a more traditional bleached color. Ideal temps should keep quality high with no effects of freeze damage forecast until well after the New Year.
BROCCOLI- The market is heavily saturated with supplies coming from all growing districts. There is a WIDE range in quality between the coast and the desert. Last weeks rains on the coast caused sporadic defects including water spotting and pin rot. There are volume deals available but not all deals are good Values .
CAULIFLOWER- The market is continuing to react downward as production in the desert is coming on strong. Demand is likely to pick up next week and could stabilize the market especially with colder weather. Quality has been excellent other than some bruising issues due to product harvested during the rain last weekend.
CELERY- Due to reduced acreage the celery market is being able to withstand an industry wide glut of produce. Larger sizes and overall volume should start to peak heading into Holiday demand period. Quality has been very nice with larger sizes becoming more prevalent. 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.
ASPARAGUS- Market continues to be active with limited supplies coming in from Mexico and Peru. Increased shipments should help supplies but strong Holiday demand will keep pressure on the market to remain high.
GREEN ONION- Good supplies are forecast through December but traditionally supplies become limited during the Holidays due to labor and logistical issues out of Mexico. Good values currently on smaller sizes and Iceless packs which have an extended shelf life due to the breathable film.
CARROTS- Production is back on track after a few slight weather related delays . The market is steady with good demand which will continue through the Holidays.
BRUSSELS SPROUT- Supplies continue to be strong with the exception of heavy rains last weekend quality has been excellent . There will be occasional spotting issues from the rains but quality should rebound quickly in time for the Holiday demand. Take advantage of good promotional pricing for the Holidays.
CITRUS- Navel production continues with good volume and improving flavor and sizing profiles. Steady increase in production will translate to better values as the season progresses.
STRAWBERRIES- With Oxnard production disrupted due to recent rains the market has been exceptionally strong with a seasonal low in volume due to limited starts in Mexico and Florida. The good news is production is currently at the bottom and has no where to go but up. Although availability may increase in the coming weeks prices look to stay strong through the Holiday. Receivers have had to alter their specs in order to get fruit through Quality Assurance. Bruising , inconsistent color and occasional soft rot are the issues currently. Sizing as well as quality should start to improve daily . Raspberry production was also setback but should improve going forward. Blackberries primarily from Mexico continue offer a good value.
WEATHER
This time of year is all about the weather . Most growers over budget their production in case of disruptive weather. This year is no exception although there are a few growers reporting a slight cutback in acres due to poor returns last Winter. The overproduction combined with normal weather usually produces bumper crops which is the situation currently in the desert. Not til late December is the weather expected to drop below normal. As a result expect plenty of produce for the Christmas Holiday. Although nothing in the forecast but if cold weather does come it may affect availability for New Years promotions but we’ll update that in the coming weeks. In the meantime get out and do some Holiday shopping.
After a wet (2-5″) weekend along to coast the weather in Californiagrowing districts is predicted to be slightly above normal (65/40-44 Coast ) through most of December with only a few rain events forecast along the coast . The desert is predicted to be dry and also slightly above normal (70/42 Desert) for December with no severe lows currently forecast
Rates continue to ease sligh tly before stronger Holiday demand kicks in by the end of the week. Plan ahead to get the best value and service.
LETTUCE- Yuma quality is good and abundant. There will be strong supplies this week and shippers will be motivated to sell. Color, sizing and weight are all ideal..
BROCCOLI- Supplies of broccoli continue to increase with crowns likely to become more available as most growers are now breaking into their new fields. Broccoli continues to be grown in multiple districts (Salinas, Santa Maria, Central Valley ,Yuma and Mexico) . Yuma tends to be the most convenient and centralized loading location and prices generally reflect. There continues to be plenty of broccoli available in Northern California . Heavy discounts for volume are being offered but there is the risk of water spotting and pin rot due to the heavy rains over the weekend along the northern coast. The desert is the recommended loading location currently. .
CAULIFLOWER- Salinas and Santa Maria continue to be the primary growing regions and production has yet to fully get underway in the desert. There is currently light supplies of cauliflower on the market but look for additional supplies as the week progresses as conditions improve in the desert.
LEAF ITEMS- Good growing conditions have resulted in ample supplies of all leaf . There is also a strong supply of Hearts. Markets should remain steady through the next couple weeks. Quality is very nice in the desert.
CELERY- Most shippers have started their southern production in either Oxnard or the desert . The shippers who don’t grow in the desert continue to transfer Celery to their desert loading facilities for convenience. This creates a wide range in markets during the Winter season. Best deals will come from Oxnard although heavy rains will delay harvest over the next few days . Look for larger sizes to become more prevalent next week..
ASPARAGUS– Mexican production has been steady. Market is expected to remain steady as well.
GREEN ONION- There continues to be an abundant supply of Green Onions on the market especially small sizes Pricing on larger sizes is slightly higher but look for more uniform pricing as we get closer to the Christmas Holiday demand.
CARROTS- Recent rains may affect harvest but above normal weather forecast should help get production back on track . Market should remain active through the Holidays with heavy promotions.
BRUSSELS SPROUTS- Supplies look to continue to be strong. The market is repeating its’ performance from early November with a good supply and a weakening market but significant promotions for the Holiday will again tighten the market rapidly. Take advantage of promotional pricing before and during the Christmas Holiday.
STRAWBERRIES- Heavy rains along the coast have wiped out production for most of this week . Mexico will be the primary source of fruit until fields can recover. Florida fruit is in it’s early stages and will be limited Although Oxnard should recover by next week supplies will be limited everywhere for the next 3 weeks. . Raspberries production will be setback due to the coastal rains as well. Blackberries primarily from Mexico have increased and continue offer a good value.
ON THE GO !!!
With the early Thanksgiving now comes the extended Christmas Holiday Season . Most everyone has started their Holiday season with Black Friday , Small Business Saturday or Cyber Monday. Usually people eat out more often leading up to the Holidays meaning Foodservice should see a spike in sales the next couple weeks even retailers have been offering on the go , ready to eat meals . Now that we are on the last leg of transition down to the southern growing regions quality is improving daily which should help drive sales. The weather will be ideal which should bring about good supplies of most veg items. Now is the time to promote all veg and most fruit items (except strawberries). Make sure to take time in between the Holiday rush to enjoy a good meal with family and friends.
Weather in California/Arizona growing districts are predicted to be normal (65/44-48 Coast ) through mid December but with possible midweek rain events each week through mid December along the coast. The desert is predicted to be dry and above normal (72/48 Desert) .
Rates continue to ease off their Holiday high and will continue to ease slightly this week before stronger December Holiday demand kicks in by the end of next week. Service levels traditionally suffer this time of year with the vast array of shipping locations but planning and persistence usually helps
avoid any potential logistical obstacles.
LETTUCE- Yuma quality is improving daily and yields are likely to increase available supplies. Color, sizing and weight are all good.
BROCCOLI- Supplies of broccoli continue to be steady with crowns likely to become more available as most growers are now breaking into their new fields. Broccoli continues to be grown in multiple districts (Salinas, Santa Maria, Central Valley ,Yuma and Mexico) . Yuma tends to be the most convenient and centralized loading location although the best values come from the other growing regions mainly because of the lack of additional items available. Discounts for volume orders are a regular occurrence. Inquire daily.
CAULIFLOWER- Unlike broccoli, production of Cauliflower is more concentrated during the month of November. Salinas and Santa Maria are the primary growing regions and production has yet to fully get underway in the desert. There is currently light supplies of cauliflower on the market but look for additional supplies towards the end of the week as conditions improve in the desert.
LEAF ITEMS- There continues to be supplies of leaf being offered out of Salinas but the best quality is from the desert growing areas. With the range in quality there is a wide range of quotes. Most offerings from the desert are reasonable and with improving weather conditions the market should maintain or likely ease. There is also a strong supply of Hearts but with the improved quality there will be less Romaine being “converted” to hearts so overall market should be stable with minor upside. Demand on green and red leaf will follow closely behind.
CELERY- Benefiting from a strong Holiday push the market has surged on all sizes but not all production has transitioned to the new growing areas in Oxnard or Yuma. Demand will likely fall off this week and the market will likely ease although similar to Broccoli there is less celery grown in Yuma and the best deals will come from the other growing districts such as Salinas and Oxnard. Most shippers transfer celery to Yuma for mixer business.
ASPARAGUS– Mexican production has been steady. Market is expected to remain steady as well.
GREEN ONION- Production is improving and more importantly logistics and labor have returned leading to an increase in supplies. Some logistical issues (Mexican Holiday) have kept supplies limited but look for slightly better availability as the week progresses. Pricing on medium and large sizes are slightly higher than small but look for more uniform pricing.
BRUSSELS SPROUTS- Supplies look to continue to be strong. The market is likely to repeat its’ performance from early November with a good supply and a weakening market But a significant amount of promotions for the Holiday will tighten market rapidly. Take advantage of promotional pricing before and during the Christmas Holiday.
STRAWBERRIES- Oxnard is the primary shipping region for eastern quality fruit. Original forecasts for dry above normal temps has been modified to include a series of midweek rain events in the coastal growing areas likely to further disrupt already limited production.Berries will continue to be exceptionally tight to non existent for traveling out of state. Continue to expect bruising issues on arrival. Mexico availability will start to increase quality offerings but expect the market for top end quality to be strong through the Holiday’s. Supplies of Raspberries is better with improving quality. Blackberries primarily from Mexico have increased and continue offer a good value. Production from Florida has begun in a light way but may not offer any relief until mid December.
CITRUS- California Navel shipments have begun . Quality is excellent with high flavor profile and improving color. Both will continue to improve throughout the season. The crop is projected to be extensive and promotional supplies available.
CARROTS- California production has slowed with the transition to the shorter days and cooler nights . Combined with fewer growing regions the market has tightened and will continue to see strength through the Holidays
HAPPY THANKSGIVING
Although there were a few tense moments most orders got out to meet their Holiday demand, with the exception of Strawberries. Now that the Thanksgiving push has slowed we concentrate on post Holiday business while dealing with the ongoing transition to the Southern growing regions. There will continue to be product scattered between all districts but by the end of the week most items will come into focus although Cauliflower and Celery won’t fully transition until the following week. Late Summer monsoon storms damaged a few early plantings in the desert but weather has since been ideal and will continue to be so through mid December. Once past the initial few fields most veg items should have a good run of quality. Although prices on most veg items are currently inflated for the Holiday , ad promotions should be widely available over the next couple weeks before the Christmas / New Years Holiday pulls begin.
Weather in California/Arizona growing districts are predicted to be at or above normal (Currently: 67/45 Coast , 74/50 Desert) through mid December with the only chance of rain possibly next weekend along the coast.
Last week rates surged with the increase in Holiday demand although, other than a few isolated occasions, availability never became an issue. Look for rates to drop this week as business slows. As always advance notice will give you the advantage of best rates and service.
LETTUCE- Transition will be completed this week. Yuma quality is improving daily and yields are likely to increase available supplies. There is currently a wide range in weights depending on the stage of transition by the shipper.
BROCCOLI- Supplies of broccoli continue to be steady with crowns slightly tighter than bunch. Broccoli continues to be grown in multiple districts (Salinas, Santa Maria, Central Valley ,Yuma and Mexico) . Although Yuma tends to be the most convenient and centralized loading location most value comes from the other growing regions mainly because of the lack of additional items available. Discounts for volume orders are a regular occurrence. Inquire daily.
CAULIFLOWER- Unlike broccoli, production of Cauliflower is more concentrated during the month of November. Salinas and Santa Maria are the primary growing regions and production has been ahead of budget but with cooler temps and strong Holiday demand supplies are limited. Supplies will remain limited but look to strengthen next week as growing conditions improve in the desert.
LEAF ITEMS- Romaine quality has been marginal finishing up the Northern district and no other commodity will benefit more from the transition South . Other than the first few fields quality will be vastly improved in the desert. Like the Iceberg Lettuce there should be a strong surge in quality and supply over the next few weeks. There should also be a strong supply of Hearts for promotions. Demand on green and red leaf will follow closely behind.
CELERY- Benefiting from a strong Holiday push the market has surged on all sizes. With demand likely to fall off this week the market will likely ease although similar to Broccoli there is less celery grown in Yuma and the best deals will come from the other growing districts such as Salinas and Oxnard. Most shippers transfer celery to Yuma for mixer business.
ASPARAGUS– Imports from Peru have increased during the Holiday period and supplies from Mexico have been steady with good demand.
GREEN ONION- Production is steady and demand has increased. Since most Green Onions are grown in Mexico it will be an easy transition to the desert. Some logistical issues (Mexican Holiday) have kept supplies limited but look for slightly better availability by the end of the week. Pricing on medium and large sizes are slightly higher than small.
BRUSSELS SPROUTS- Good supplies and stronger demand have prices climbing. Most volume has been contracted out for the Thanksgiving Holiday. Supplies look to continue to be strong even after the Holiday. Take advantage of promotional pricing before and during the Christmas Holiday.
STRAWBERRIES- Oxnard is the primary shipping region for eastern quality fruit although warm temperatures early last week softened the fruit then cold weather slowed it down now light rain over the weekend will further push any chance of shippable quality until next week . Combined with some Holiday promotions , Strawberries have become exceptionally tight to non existent for traveling out of state. Continue to expect bruising issues on arrival. Mexico availability will start to increase quality offerings but expect the market for top end quality to be strong through the Holiday’s. Supplies of Raspberries is better with improving quality. Blackberries primarily from Mexico have increased and continue offer a good value. Production from Florida has begun in a light way but may not offer any relief until December.
CITRUS- California Navel shipments have begun . Quality is excellent with high flavor profile and improving color. Both will continue to improve throughout the season. The crop is projected to be extensive and promotional supplies available.
HAPPY THANKSGIVING FROM PRODUCE WEST !
VETERAN'S HOLIDAY
November 12th, 2012
While we honor our Veteran’s we jump right into the peak of the Thanksgiving Holiday demand. Shippers are continuing their transition south. With scattered production most shippers just trying to cover their regular business. But with transition, shippers routinely budget to have overlapping growing areas which can easily lead to oversupply and discounted deals. These deals are usually sporadic and vary daily. This Holiday season appears to be no exception although inflated inventories and fluctuating weather pattern the past couple weeks has led to a wide array of quality concerns. Continue to plan ahead and monitoring shipment quality will continue to be top priority to ensure best value.
After recent fluctuating weather in California/Arizona growing districts, temperatures will return for an extended run near normal ( 68/42 Coast , 78/50 Inland desert) through mid December with the only chance of rain possibly next week.
Truck availability will be mixed this week. Last week rates continued to edge down but increased demand for the Thanksgiving Holiday pull will likely keep rates steady or even slightly higher for those last minute needs. As always advance notice will give you the advantage of best rates and service.
LETTUCE- Transition continues to the desert, With ALL three districts still going there is an adequate supply available although quality from the Northern areas (Salinas amp; Huron) will take a significant step back. Shelf life of Salinas lettuce is substantially reduced especially after last weeks swing in temperature. Yuma is initially reporting alot of small size lettuce but should improve as the week goes on.
BROCCOLI- Supplies of broccoli continue to be steady with crowns slightly tighter than bunch. Production continues to be slightly ahead of budget. Broccoli is grown in multiple districts (Salinas, Santa Maria, Central Valley , Yuma and Mexico) during this transitional period which should lead to ample supplies. This past weekends cold weather will keep product fresh but look for increased available supplies once the heavy demand period slows down. There are some early reports for reduced yields on Desert broccoli but overlapping growing areas should offset any significant reduction.
CAULIFLOWER- Unlike broccoli, production of Cauliflower is more concentrated during the month of November. Salinas and Santa Maria are the primary growing regions and with production ahead of budget there is currently good supplies BUT will likely run short during the Holiday pull as there are no new districts to support demand until the desert ,which isn’t scheduled to start until the week of November 19th. Quality remains good. Look for supplies to strengthen the week of after Thanksgiving.
LEAF ITEMS- Romaine quality continues to be the driving force behind the improved market. Much of the current crop continues to suffer from defects from seeder, tipburn, twist , mildew and rib discoloration. Most shippers are “trimming down” defects and converting to hearts. This has led to carton Romaine market improving but the heart market continues to be over-saturated. Demand will continue to improve but quality will continue to be an issue . There are a few quality concerns with the initial fields from Yuma but like iceberg lettuce, Yuma will be the preferred loading destination this week. Demand on green and redleaf will follow closely behind.
CELERY- Market has strengthened slightly with Holiday promotions . Inventories are down with the majority of shipments happening the next few days. Eventually orders will slow down and spot buys with become available again by the weekend. Usually on larger sizes as most retailers like to “downsize ” their celery spec during the Holiday to offer consumer a better per each value.
ASPARAGUS– Production from Mexico continues to be steady and demand has stayed strong. Quality continues to improve weekly. Supplies look to be on track for Holiday promotions.
GREEN ONION- Production is steady and demand has started to increase. Since most Green Onions are grown in Mexico it will be an easy transition to the desert. Shippers costs are actually reduced with the shorter delivery destination. Also specials can usually be done within a days notice. With the packaging technology available Iceless packs continue to offer customers a very good value due to the reduced freight cost and the reduction in waxed cartons along with the reduced safety hazard of no excess ice. Pricing on medium and large sizes are slightly higher than small. The market will likely strengthen as the week progresses.
BRUSSELS SPROUTS- Good supplies and stronger demand have prices climbing. Most volume has been contracted out for the Thanksgiving Holiday. Most shippers are offering multiple packs including clamshells, 1 amp; 2 lb microwaveable packages , and Stalks. Supplies look to continue to be strong even after the Holiday.
STRAWBERRIES- Oxnard is the primary shipping region for eastern quality fruit although warm temperatures early last week softened the fruit then cold weather slowed it down. Combined with some Holiday promotions , Strawberries have become increasingly tight especially for traveling East. Continue to expect bruising issues on arrival. Mexico availability will start to increase quality offerings but expect the market for top end quality to be strong through the Holiday’s. Supplies of Raspberries is better with improving quality. Blackberries primarily from Mexico have increased and continue offer a good value. Production from Florida will begin around the first of December.
CITRUS- California Navel shipments have begun . Quality is excellent with high flavor profile and improving color. Both will continue to improve throughout the season. The crop is projected to be extensive and promotional supplies available.
REMEMBER TO THANK ALL VETERANS FOR THEIR DEDICATION TO OUR COUNTRY
GET OUT THE VOTE
With the start of a new month and a major produce holiday approaching most shippers are positioning their marketing strategies to take advantage of the increased demand. Shippers on most veg items are artificially inflating prices in an effort to reach their lid pricing for the Thanksgiving Holiday pull, set to begin this week. To meet the surge in demand, shippers must inventory most core commodities. The balancing act between selling out daily and holding product for “future” prebooked orders is tricky. Warm weather over the weekend will continue to push crops ahead of schedule and if bulk shipments don’t start soon warehouse space becomes a potential issue along with quality. This all leads to price instability especially when demand from the East Coast, New York / New Jersey area, has been unstable due to the aftermath of Superstorm Sandy.
Weather in California/Arizona growing districts will be 10-15 degrees above normal ( 68/44 Coast , 80/55 Inland desert) through midweek but looks to return to normal for the foreseeable future with the only precipitation predicted for November arriving early the week of Thanksgiving.
Truck availability remains good with rates continuing to edge down slightly although increased demand for the Thanksgiving Holiday pull will begin as early as this week putting pressure for rates to hold. As always advance notice will give you the advantage of best rates and service.
LETTUCE- Part II of the transition is underway. Those shippers who chose not to participate in the Central Valley will start their Winter program a week earlier than budgeted in the Yuma Valley this week. With ALL three districts going there is abundant supplies available. Although quality is another story. Shelf life of Salinas lettuce is substantially reduced especially after this weekends warm weather. Quality in the Central Valley (Huron) has improved slightly but is still just fair and Yuma is reporting the usual initial defects from Seeder to tip burn . Quality from Salinas and Huron will continue to decline but Yuma will improve once harvest gets past the first few initial fields. With a wide range in quality from ALL districts loading fresh lettuce is top priority.
BROCCOLI- Supplies of broccoli continue to be steady with crowns slightly tighter than bunch. Production continues to be slightly ahead of budget adding to the current supply. Broccoli is grown in multiple districts (Salinas, Santa Maria, Central Valley , Yuma and Mexico) during this transitional period which should lead to ample supplies for the Thanksgiving pull. This past weekends warm weather will continue to keep supplies ahead of budget. Volume deals are available but with much of the crop heavily committed for the Holiday they are very sporadic. Quality is mostly good from all districts.
CAULIFLOWER- Unlike broccoli, production of Cauliflower is more concentrated during the month of November. Salinas and Santa Maria are the primary growing regions and with production ahead of budget there is currently good supplies BUT will likely run short during the Holiday pull as there are no new districts to support demand until the desert ,which isn’t scheduled to start until the week of November 19th. Quality remains good.
LEAF ITEMS- Romaine quality continues to be the driving force behind the improved market. Much of the current crop continues to suffer from defects from seeder, tipburn, twist , mildew and rib discoloration. Most shippers are “trimming down” defects and converting to hearts. This has lead to carton Romaine market improving but the heart market has been over-saturated. Demand should improve but quality will continue to be an issue even with Yuma scheduled to start later this week. Demand on green and redleaf will follow closely behind. Quality will continue to be an issue in ALL loading locations.
CELERY- Market has strengthened slightly with early Holiday promotions starting this week. But as stated in the intro most shippers don’t have the labor capacity to handle the volume of orders needed on a day to day basis without inventorying heavy volume in preparation of Holiday demand. A few shippers will continue to offer out volume deals to maintain rotation as their holiday demand comes into focus.
ASPARAGUS– Production from Mexico continues to be steady and demand has stayed strong. Quality continues to improve weekly. Supplies look to be on track for Holiday promotions but the market will likely start to get stronger as the early holiday promotions kickoff .
GREEN ONION- Production has leveled off but demand continues to be weak especially on small size Green Onions. Pricing on medium and large sizes are slightly higher. The market will likely strengthen as the week progresses.
BRUSSELS SPROUTS- Increased supplies and lighter demand had prices continuing to head lower last week but increased demand for Holiday promotions will likely jump sharply this week and prop the market back up. Take advantage of good values while supplies last. Most shippers are offering multiple packs including clamshells, 1 amp; 2 lb microwaveable packages , and Stalks which is a Great intro display item.
STRAWBERRIES- Oxnard will be the primary shipping region for eastern quality fruit although warm temperatures have softened even their new Fall crop. Availability for shipping east continues to be VERY limited. Continue to expect bruising issues on arrival. Mexico availability will start to increase quality offerings but expect the market for top end quality to be strong through the Holiday’s. Supplies of Raspberries is better with improving quality. Blackberries primarily from Mexico have increased and continue offer a good value. Production from Florida is still a month away.
CITRUS- California Navel shipments have begun . Quality is excellent with high flavor profile while color is only slightly off. Both will continue to improve throughout the season. The crop is projected to be extensive and promotional supplies available.
Don’t forget to get do your civic duty and like they say , “Vote Early and Vote Often“