January 16, 2020

 

We are also experiencing some showers in our Oxnard region today, with conditions to also clear up slightly into overcast weather over the weekend, and then potential for showers again next Tuesday. Chances for rain next week are currently 40-50% so we will monitor this as necessary. Today brings a cool storm with temperatures in the 50s during the day, with temperatures to increase into the 60s-70s the next 7 days. Warmer conditions may be on the way following this, which should help to increase volumes. Conventional berries continue to look very nice at 95-100 percent color, good shape, sheen and size at 14-16 count. The organic ranch looks very nice with a strong fruit set ready to ripen the next few weeks.

 

 

Mexico:

Strawberries: 

Blackberries: 

Blackberry production is remaining consistent with no changes reported. The lower temperatures are helping the quality. However, the projected higher temperatures could create some minor defects but nothing we are concerned about at this time.

Raspberries: 

 

Blueberries:

Quality out of Mexico has been good and organic production is picking up. We are currently in peak arrival period for blueberries out of Chile, and are expected to receive bulk product over the next two weeks. Berries arriving into Philadelphia are looking firm with no defects to report. Some however, at the end of last week were on the fair-poor quality standard. We are working diligently as a team to ensure all packs are kept clean with firm, strong fruit. The majority of the containers arriving to our Oxnard region going forward will be northern highbush varieties, so we are confident quality will be more uniform moving forward for our customers. We are expecting to also receive our first load of Chilean organics during week 4, and expect to receive another container per week through week 10. This is our first time offering organic Chilean blues, and we are looking forward to offering this to our valued partners! As for Oxnard, quality is looking very good among organics, with an anticipated harvest date just a few weeks out.

 

 

 

Florida: 

Weather is projected to cool down next week in Florida with temperatures mostly in the 60s and nighttime lows in the 30s-40s. There are also showers projected for both Sunday and Monday. Weather will be warm this week in the low to mid 80’s lows in the mid 60’s. Quality is excellent with size in the mid to low 20s. Volume will substantially increase in the next 2-3 weeks just in time for the Valentine's holiday. 

We are a little less than a month away from one of our berries biggest holidays: Valentine's Day. Our shoppers love the opportunity to indulge, dress up their berries or simply sweetening their days with their freshness alone.

 

As we lead up to the holiday of love, we take every opportunity to reinforce Valentines (and Galentine's) planning and inspiration for our consumers as they begin to plan sweet treats, decadent desserts or sparkling libations for their loved ones.

 

Below are just a few of the recipes we encourage shoppers to try for themselves and re-invent with thoughtfulness. Whether they're sharing their day with their partner or their best pals, we are here for it.