Instability in the first months of the year

Now that the market has switched to Mexican supply, it has mostly stabilized, but, prior to this change, the market witnessed some turmoil. Jerald Downs, Chairman of Berry People, shares: “In January and February there was a very tight market. This combined with poor quality in Chile due to Covid-related delays at destination ports and resulted in a temporary slowdown in consumer demand, as well as discouraging promotional activity in March. In March there was a small 'collapse' in the Chilean fruit market, but Mexican fruit remained above the rest, mainly due to the condition of the product and broader demand and market opportunities for the fruit in more favorable conditions. powerful ".

Mexican harvests

At the end of March, large volumes entered the market. "There was a convergence of Mexican production that peaked, with a concentration of Chilean arrivals, creating a severe overcorrection of the market towards the last half of the month," says Downs.

“Fortunately, the challenges of the late Chilean fruit are behind us, and we now have consistent volumes of high-quality organic and conventional blueberries from our Mexican growers. Also, our growers in California are reporting fruit set that looks promising for the late April harvest; We anticipate a steady transition from Mexican to Californian production over the next 60 days.”

Organic blueberries

For organic blueberries, the market has been a bit more stable. “Typical of organics in general, the market size is smaller and often slower to 'react' to the downside or upside. We saw a narrowing of the price gap between organic and conventional from March 2020 to date, but demand patterns appear to be changing again as things open up during 2021. Hard to say, but we can see that the demand for organic continues its upward trend, with changes in the distribution channels that have an indirect impact on its markets for organic and conventional berries, ”says Downs.

Mexican volumes are strong

The Mexican season is going well and although the weather was cool at the start of the season causing a bit of a delay, the weather throughout April so far has been ideal. “Production is on the rise and our growers are committed to varieties that enhance the consumer's eating experience,” shares Down, adding: “There continue to be some challenges with logistics, packaging supplies and long delivery times due to A Covid- related limitations has kept us on our toes. So there are fewer options for 'last minute' package style changes, eg “.

An approach towards producers

Berry People's unique approach to grower relationships has helped fuel its triple-digit growth over the past three years. “We bring a long-term perspective and a commitment to delicate ties of trust to our relationships with growers, and we strive to be true partners, taking a holistic approach to improving grower and Berry People operations from top to bottom.” Downs continued. “Berries in general have been positively affected, likely due to their general health and immunity benefits. We expect the category to continue to gain in the produce department due to the revenue per linear foot it generates relative to other categories. Blueberries, specifically, have a strong foundation in terms of health, convenience, and increased affordability,” Downs concludes.

Successful season

Berry People anticipates a robust spring and summer blueberry season in 2021, with a broader and more diversified base of growers and acres from California and the Pacific Northwest, allowing them to handle the June-September transition with continuity, quality, and volume. Berry People Brand Blueberries are available in 12 x 6 ounce, 12 x 1 pint and 8 x 18 ounce packages.