GM Produce Sales expects promotable mango volume

The Mexican mango season is now in full swing, beginning in January with Ataulfo mangos from the southern areas of Mexico, said JoJo Shiba, west coast sales director of Hidalgo, Texas-based GM Produce Sales LLC. The company has been an importer of Mexican mangoes since as far back as 1984.

The weather has been ideal in many areas, and this year, a big crop of yellow mangos from southern Mexico is expected, Shiba said.

“Promotional volume should be great during March and April so we are hoping retailers take advantage of this opportunity and will promote heavily for St Patrick’s Day and Easter,” Shiba said.

While yellow mangos will be in good supply soon, red mangos look to be delayed.

“Early reports so far are indicating a late start for Mexican red mangos. Some of the southern areas have experienced bad weather,” Shiba said. “Retailers can expect to see light supplies and possible high prices in March as in recent years. However, late April, May and June should have good promotional volume for Cinco de Mayo and Memorial Day ads.”

With good volume around upcoming holidays, Shiba has seen retailers use a certain strategy for sales during promotions.

“Every year, we see more and more retailers take advantage of heavy volume and low prices by selling red or yellow mangos by the 4-kilogram box. Most 4-kilogram boxes are barcoded so they can scan at the register,” Shiba said. “This is a great way for retailers to increase their sales year over year and also build large attractive displays.”

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