Summer is not the peak time for artichoke consumption or production, so an uptick in production in a market with light demand can cause prices to drop. As volumes in California have been slightly higher than expected for this time of year, prices have reacted.“Generally, everyone expects to be lightly supplied at this time of year, and there are fewer promotions,” said Tim Tomasello with Produce West. “So any excess in volume and the market sags.” He noted that there is, in fact, a bit of excess in volume for the demand out there, so prices have dipped over the last month.
On August 11, prices for a carton of Globe 12s from California were between $10.50 and $12.75, and prices for a carton of 36s were between $6.55 and $10.50. For some sizes and varieties, Tomasello noted that current prices are about half of what they were about a month ago.
“Volumes right now are moderate to heavy with light demand,” he said. “There are no signs the market will change until you get into the fall retail promotions.”
For more information:
Tim Tomasello
Produce West
+1 831 455 2981