Grower-shippers anticipate a festive fall with gatherings galore – in other words, perfect conditions for pumpkins.
“Last year, demand was driven by people living their lives at home and so we saw increased demand as a result of people decorating their homes more and celebrating with their families,” said Jeanna Hoff, saleswoman for Manteca, Calif.-based Van Groningen & Sons.
“While that isn’t as much the case this year, we don’t anticipate demand falling off. Our expectation for this year is based on the trends we have seen for other holidays and events. Since people were unable to celebrate Halloween traditionally last year, there is likely pent-up demand to celebrate this year. Our expectation is that we will see robust demand as a result.”
Michele Youngquist, owner of Mount Vernon, Wash.-based Bay Baby Produce, also noted strong demand as a result of more social gatherings. The different colors and textures available make pumpkins ideal for decorating not only for holidays but throughout the fall, Youngquist said.
She noted that it has been hotter and drier than usual in their area but that so far the crop looks good. Hoff also reported that weather has been mostly cooperative.
Both women noted that plenty of other variables have the potential to cause headaches this season, however.
“We expect that the most troublesome variable this year will be found within the supply chain,” Hoff said.
“Obtaining materials (cardboard and pallets), finding labor, and also diminished capacity in trucks and drivers has proven to cause issues in packing and shipping product. The pumpkin season is a short and intense season. This consolidated supply and drastic increase in production will likely be difficult for an already stressed supply chain to handle. We are working ahead to try to mitigate these challenges as much as possible.”
Both companies have new items coming available for the new season. Bay Baby Produce has a new line of small painted pumpkins called Little Ghouls, and additions for Van Groningen & Sons include the mini fairytale, the Kouyou and a Fall Pastel bin collection.
