Record yields for Ontario greenhouse tomatoes

Markets are not where they should be for greenhouse growers in Kingsville and Leamington, Ontario the largest greenhouse growing area in Canada, but the produce quality is excellent. “Supply is very good, we’re having record yields this year and the quality is fantastic,” said David Pereira of Smarty Brand, growers of beefsteak tomatoes. Due to the favourable growing conditions we have experienced this year, the competition has been intense, which usually results in larger supplies and minimal changes to demand from the consumers and / or food service. “We’re very happy with the crop conditions.”

With an abundance of produce to promote, it’s key for Pereira to push produce and keep the volume moving. “Having good promotable volumes is key. Especially when you have such outstanding quality, that’s the stuff you want to show.” Advertising is helping move continued volume but companies can never plan for overflow – or alternately, not enough yields. Responsible marketing and strategic promotion plays a vital part in moving that overflow without disrupting the markets. “It’s hard to plan for that overflow. That’s when you see markets come down,” said Pereira.

Growers track their volume from day to day, week to week and can determine growing trends each year. Being up from previous years can make it hard for planning but good weather usually indicates heavier picking from a crop that’s very healthy. “(Overflow) isn’t a terrible thing because this is what we wish for, we want to have those great crops,” he said. “We’re very happy.”

For more information:

David Pereira
Smarty Brand
Ph: (519) 322-1990
dave@smartybrand.com
http://www.smartybrand.com