Grapes

Strong demand greets Coachella, Mexican grapes

Shippers of grapes from California’s Coachella Valley and Mexico are expecting strong demand for high-quality fruit at the beginning of their deals.

Grapes good for heart health

Grapes are good for the heart, research from the University of Connecticut has shown.

Mexican grape exports to surpass 16 million boxes

HERMOSILLO, Mexico – Sonoran grape growers' forecast for the 2012 season, released April 27, shows projected total export volume of more than 16.3 million cartons.

The projection is larger than that of the past three years, although not as high as some expected after touring three Hermosillo-area grape growing operations April 26.

Sonoran grapes primed for Memorial Day promotions

HERMOSILLO, Mexico – High volume and high-end quality Sonoran grapes, coupled with a later-than-usual Memorial Day, should translate into loads of retail promotional opportunities, sources say.

Fruit Patch hires CEO

Produce industry veteran Jim Gallagher has been named chief executive officer of Fruit Patch Sales Inc.

Organic production increases in California desert

A number of desert growers are implementing or expanding organic programs to meet increasing consumer demand.

Sun World revamps packaging

Sun World International LLC, Bakersfield, Calif., has enhanced the packaging for many of its products as the company launches its spring/summer program, said Gordon Robertson, senior vice president of sales and marketing.

Industry turns to social media

Grower-shippers, as well as a major table grape trade organization, are turning to promotional activities and social media to call attention to desert produce this season.

Growers forecast strong table grape deal

An early start, a fairly large crop and excellent quality should characterize this year’s Coachella Valley table grape deal, grower-shippers say.

Desert Produce business update briefs

Bakersfield, Calif.-based Anthony Vineyards has expanded its Bakersfield facility, adding two cold rooms for storage to accommodate late grapes, said co-owner Robert Bianco.