100 million-plus cartons: ‘new normal’ for California table grapes

The California Table Grape Commission reports that growers shipped more than 109 million boxes in 2017.
The California Table Grape Commission reports that growers shipped more than 109 million boxes in 2017.
(File photo)

California table grape production is seeing a “new normal” of 100 million-plus box crops, according to the California Table Grape Commission.

California grape growers produced 109.1 million boxes during the 2017 season. The grapes are available from May through January, according to a news release from the commission.

“After breaking the 100-million box mark only six years ago, a 109-million box crop has become the new normal for California Table Grape growers,” commission President Kathleen Nave said in a news release.

In 2016, the industry shipped 110 million boxed of table grapes, according to a news release, with a value of $1.85 billion.

The commission is preparing for a global promotion campaign, with harvest just a few weeks away, according to the release.

“The commission campaign focuses on motivating the trade to promote, and consumers to buy, more California grapes more often,” Nave said in the release.

Almost 65% of the California table grape crop was consumed in the U.S., according to the commission. Export markets, in order of volume shipped, are:

  • Canada
  • Mexico
  • Mainland China
  • Philippines
  • Taiwan
  • Japan

The value of the 2017 crop, according to the release, was $1.81 billion.

 

Latest News

How new research could prevent frost damage in orchards
How new research could prevent frost damage in orchards

In this podcast episode, Advanced Agriscience's Collin Juurakko shares interesting discoveries he's made about how frost crystals form and how that lead to a potential solution for tree-fruit growers across the globe.

Cool Creations previews new products at AWG show
Cool Creations previews new products at AWG show

North Kansas City, Mo.-based Cool Creations LLC had two new products to show off at the Associated Wholesale Grocers' seventh annual Innovation Showcase, March 25-26.

Dole, Fresh Express nix sale of fresh vegetables division
Dole, Fresh Express nix sale of fresh vegetables division

Following Department of Justice concerns about competition in the packaged salad market, the companies have abandoned the proposed $308 million deal.

Fresh Del Monte named to most trusted companies list
Fresh Del Monte named to most trusted companies list

Fresh Del Monte is among the honorees on the Most Trustworthy Companies in America 2024 list, recognized for a commitment to quality, sustainability and innovation in fresh produce.

Improved conditions for West Mexico produce may arrive with spring
Improved conditions for West Mexico produce may arrive with spring

West Mexico growers faced a tough fall/winter season, but distributors believe things are looking up for spring with increased supplies and more reasonable prices.

What’s next for retail foodservice: Retailers dish up insights in free webinar
What’s next for retail foodservice: Retailers dish up insights in free webinar

"Impact Retail Foodservice 2024" will gather industry experts to discuss opportunities and challenges, as well as share insights for driving growth in the year ahead in one of the hottest departments in grocery.