Packer Stories

05/14/2013

Naturipe Farms LLC, Estero, Fla., has partnered with the California Avocado Commission for its “Wake up to Breakfast with California Avocados” campaign.

05/14/2013

The berry category is growing with strawberries still at the top, though blueberries, raspberries and blackberries enjoy major success as well.

05/14/2013

Berries remain at the top of retail sales trends, thanks to several marketing techniques, including cross-promotions.

05/14/2013

More berries are showing up in foodservice applications, according to suppliers. Blueberries especially are popular items on restaurant menus.

05/14/2013

Variety seems to be emerging as a trend in berry pack sizes, though larger sizes are also popular.

Market Scope - Strawberries — F.o.b.s as of May 13

SANTA MARIA, CALIF., DISTRICT — Shipments (303-334-320) — Movement expected to remain about the same. Trading very active. Prices higher. Flats of 12 1-pint baskets medium-large $12. Flats of 8 1-pound containers with lids medium-large $8-9. Organic: Flats of 8 1-pound containers with lids medium-large $16. Includes palletizing and cooling. Wide range in quality.

SALINAS-WATSONVILLE, CALIF., DISTRICT — Shipments (131-150-181) — Movement expected to increase. Trading very active. Prices higher. Flats of 12 1-pint baskets medium-large $12-13. Flats of 8 1-pound containers with lids medium-large $9-10. Organic: flats of 8 1-pound containers with lids medium-large $16. Includes palletizing and cooling. Wide range in quality.

OXNARD, CALIF., DISTRICT — Shipments (170-81-43) — Movement expected to decrease. Most shippers have finished for the season. Remaining supplies in too few hands to establish market. Light shipments expected to continue until May 25. LAST REPORT.

EASTERN NORTH CAROLINA — Shipments (2-4-7) — Movement expected to remain about the same. Trading active. Prices slightly higher. Flats of 8 1-pound containers with lids medium-large $12-14. Includes palletizing and cooling.