The California table grape season runs from May through January and the California Table Grape Commission has already started planning its promotional program for the upcoming season. From February 8-10, the Commission will be attending Fruit Logistica in Berlin. “It is an important show for us,” says Susan Day, Vice President International Marketing with the California Table Grape Commission. “Buyers, not just from Europe, but from around the world go to Berlin for the show and California grapes are exported all over the world each year.” Fruit Logistica provides a good opportunity to meet with buyers in a central location to talk about the upcoming season, which starts in a little over three months.California grapes exported to 32 countries
With its promotional programs, the Commission targets retailers in 32 countries and supports them with promotions designed to move the crop each year. The program primarily targets consumers in retail chain stores and includes activities such as chef demonstrations, grape samplings and radio ads. “In addition, we educate retailers and their customers about California grapes,” said Day.
Multiple varieties of green, red and black, seeded and seedless California table grapes are shipped to numerous countries globally. California grows more than 85 grape varieties, with some being proprietary. According to the USDA, total exports increased 4 percent during the time frame May through November 2016 compared to the same time period in 2015. Export volumes amounted to 316,309 tonnes, which is 36.7 million 19-pound boxes with a value of $734.2 million. The five largest export markets during this time frame were Canada, Mexico, China/Hong Kong, the Philippines and Taiwan. For more information:
Susan Day
Grapes from California
Tel: (+1) 559-447-8350