US: Grape tomato demand “heavily outweighing” supply

Poor growing conditions in Florida and Mexico have caused a supply setback for the US grape tomato market this winter, with growers and importers struggling to meet demand.

“We usually have promotable quantities this time of year,” says Frank Paone of Procacci Brothers, a Philadelphia based wholesaler that operates the Santa Sweets Authentic Grape Tomato brand. This year, however, supplies have been unusually low through January. “Demand is heavily outweighing supply,” says Paone. “Cold and rain are driving down yields, and as a result, prices are much higher than what we normally see this time of year.”

According to Paone, weather issues in two central growing regions have played a major role in the supply shortage. Northwest Mexico and southern Florida have both experienced colder than typical winters this year, which Paone says has slowed growth and delayed harvests. Paone adds that heavy rains have played a part in Florida’s crop shortages and growers’ ability to harvest, but clarifies that “unseasonably cold weather’s been the case for both [regions].”

While both regions are experiencing unseasonable weather conditions, Paone says that Mexico seems to be in better shape than Florida. “We’re optimistic that supplies from our Mexico farms should regulate in the next couple of weeks, while Florida seems to be a bit more unclear.”

Procacci Brothers will be bringing the Santa Sweets brand to Southern Exposure show in Hollywood, FL, in five weeks’ time, where they will be showcasing their grape tomatoes and organic grape tomatoes, as well as their UglyRipe® heirloom tomatoes.

For more information:

Frank Paone

Tel: +1 (215) 463-8000+1 (215) 463-8000