Although the national blueberry campaign will continue for another six weeks, the sector is preparing for the transition to the import campaign. Currently, Oregon, Michigan, Washington and British Columbia offer high quality fruit, but with production volumes lower than the historical average. “The high volume season of the domestic season is coming to an end and I expect the harvest to be completed by the end of September,” says Matthew Giddings of Always Fresh Farms. By then, the volumes from Peru will still not be enough to supply the sector.

Late start for Peru

In fact, the Peruvian blueberry season will take a while to start. Last year, Peru's harvest was delayed due to El Niño, a circumstance that delayed this season's pruning cycle, so the maximum production curve will consequently be delayed. In general, there will be a lag between the end of the domestic season and the arrival of a significant volume from Peru. “However, internally we have planned it well,” says Giddings. "We expect high quality late national fruit and we are in contact with our customers."

The retailers They are adjusting their promotions by moving them to the end of October. “By the end of October, Peru will occupy a dominant position in the market,” predicts Giddings. "The country will take the lead in November and December, months in which there should be plenty of promotional occasions."

Giddings is excited about the entry into production of new varieties of blueberries from Peru. While some new varieties were already available in smaller quantities in previous years, 2024 looks more promising for new varieties, which will hit the market in larger volumes.

Local blackberry programs

Although blackberries are having a good national season, the heat in some parts of the country has complicated things. "Also, blackberries don't travel well, so we are increasingly focusing on local programs with retailers«explains Giddings. They grow well in many parts of the US, offering local sourcing opportunities. “We have had a lot of success with local programs in Florida, Georgia, the Pacific Northwest and New Jersey,” says Giddings. The US season is winding down and is expected to end in early September.

Always Fresh Farms has already started receiving blackberries from Mexico and is looking forward to a promising import season.