Wide availability of Peruvian blueberries is expected ahead of Thanksgiving
The Peruvian blueberry season got off to a late start, but production is now peaking with different varieties being harvested. “Compared to last year, this year has been very different in terms of weather,” says Adriana Fortune, commercial director of Gourmet Trading Company. Last year, El Niño raised temperatures, impacting quality and yield, and volume was low throughout the season. This year, however, has been a bit cooler than usual, leading to a slower start to the season. “However, the plants seem to have liked the low temperatures, as the fruit is coming out very well and volume is back to normal,” says Fortune.
promotion opportunities
The peak of arrivals in the US is expected to occur in mid-October and there should be sufficient volume for promotions, especially in view of Thanksgiving.
"Last season there was not enough volume to promote in November, but this year the industry should be able to do so, both in November and December," Fortune said.
Although things are looking much better in terms of volume, conditions vary by growing region. Lambayeque in the north of the country is experiencing water shortages due to lack of rain, which may be problematic for growers in the Olmos district. In contrast, in Ica in the south of the country, a delay is expected due to the colder weather. La Libertad – south of Lambayeque but north of Ica – is having a good season so far. “Proarándanos, the Association of Blueberry Producers and Exporters of Peru, is doing a good job of collecting data from its members about the harvest and keeping the industry informed. That way, we can all plan accordingly.” Last season was a great lesson for most of the industry, and everyone is trying to take those lessons for this season.
Overall, the season is looking very promising. In addition to the promotable volumes, the quality is also favorable. “The fruit is firm, with excellent bloom, good size and, most importantly, it eats well. We are pleased with the fruit coming off our farms right now,” says Scott Hulsey, CEO of Gourmet Trading Company. “I think it will be a great season with good volume and quality, as well as good demand.”
Organic blueberries are Gourmet Trading's main product. The company also works with conventional farmers, whose fruit it also markets. The main markets for the company's fresh blueberries are the two coasts of the USA and Europe.
«We focus on the retail “We like to plan our season together with our customers,” says Hulsey. “We are proud of the partnerships we have with our customers.”
The price is unknown
In the very short term, the uncertain factor is port strikes along the US East Coast, as arrivals could be affected. The evolution of prices is also uncertain. “We have a high-quality product and, if the timing is right, we should see a hungry market willing to absorb volume,” says Luciano Fiszman, vice president of sales and procurement. In that case, the price should be competitive enough for the company to be able to buy the product. retail move significant volumes, while producers would continue to make money. “At the end of the day, we all have to protect the producer so that he can produce blueberries today and tomorrow.”
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