“Due to a hot, dry summer, our peach harvest will be extended by an additional two weeks,” says Chalmers Carr with Titan Farms. “We will harvest and ship peaches into the latter part of September.” This type of weather makes for the sweetest peach and is welcomed after a challenging start to the growing season. “The warmest spring in a decade, coupled with a very condensed bloom period reduced the time for thinning the crop,” mentioned Carr. “As a result, fruit sizing was affected.” In a normal season, the bloom period is 18 days, but it was down to eight days this year. 
High retail prices impacted movement
“The peach season started off with extremely high retail prices, slowing down movement,” mentioned Carr. “The nation’s largest retailer doubled its retail price from 2014 to 2015.” However, as the summer season progressed, retail prices lowered and business picked up. “We expect our average return to the farm to be up six percent from last year,” Carr added.
Retailer education
“Peach consumption in general is increasing, but this year’s consumption levels seem to be slightly down due to less promotion at the retail level,” says Daryl Johnston with Titan Farms. It is an ongoing challenge to ensure that retailers are competitive and shelves and displays are the right size and filled with fruit. “As a grower and leader in the segment, we put effort into educating our partners on creating more space and increasing promotions to boost consumption,” Johnston mentioned.
Titan Farms’ peaches are available in bulk as well as value-added product. The company sells its bulk peaches under the Titan Farms, Carolina Beauty and Summer Snack labels. Titan Farms also has different value-added options: a 2 lbs. bag, various clamshells and club packs that provide brand awareness and recognition.
For more information:
Titan Farms
Tel: (+1) 803-685-5381
Chalmers Carr
-or-
Daryl Johnston