Fall rains in Central America affected melon production there, and through the rain, cantaloupes fared better than honeydews. The U.S. market for imported melons is strong at the moment, but increased volume in March and April will lead to outstanding promotional opportunities.
“Classic Fruit produces melons at its own farms in Guatemala, but both Guatemala and Honduras are supplying melons right now,” said Tom Ferguson of Classic Fruit in Florida. Rains in October and November cut into this season's production, though supplies are on their way up. Ideal weather last month promises more imports in February and March.
“Honeydews were affected the most, and I'd say production is about 20 percent less than what it was last season,” said Ferguson. “Cantaloupe production is almost exactly the same as that from the previous season, and I think it's because the Caribbean Gold variety has just proven to be more resistant to the climatic conditions.”
Though December and January are typically sluggish months for melons, except for a dip in demand due to the blizzard that hit the East Coast, the market has held up well over the last two months. Ferguson believes this is due to early-season contracts limiting the availability of open-market fruit.
“Over the past couple of season’s contract business has become a predominant part of our industry which has assisted in eating up a lot of the regular weekly volume,” he explained. “With these retail, processing and foodservice contracts, everyone jumps on board with an agreed season-long price, and that typically leaves less product for the open market.”
For more information:
Tom Ferguson
Classic Fruit Company
+1 954 426 0775