After a couple of months of tight supplies and high prices, lemon supplies have normalized now that the California season is producing more volume. District 3, which incorporates the desert areas of California and Arizona, has been in production for about a month now while District 1 - the San Joaquin Valley - will be starting this week. The other region - District 2 - which includes the coastal growing areas, is not due to start until next February.
There is very little fruit to come in from South America now, but California production is now producing sufficient supplies for the North American market. "Argentina is complete and final Chilean arrivals will be this week, Week 42," noted Alex Teague of Limoneira. "Lemon supplies have now normalized and we currently have a good balance between supply and demand."
Market still strong
Despite the easing of the supply situation, prices remain strong around the world due to strong demand. Even the export market - tainted by the tariff issue - is looking positive, suppliers say. According to Teague, lemon consumption continues to increase, helping to drive this strong market.
"The lemon market continues to be very vigorous worldwide," he observed. "Both foodservice and retail in all markets continues to show per capital consumption increases. Export demand is good in spite of the tariff situation, while domestic demand continues to be very brisk."
Organic program
Limoneira is about to launch a new organic program which the company says will complete the lemon and citrus lineup. Teague said the organic program will be complemented by new packaging. "As part of our 'One World of Citrus™' initiative, Limoneira organic lemons are part of a complete array of lemon and citrus varieties."
Apart from the new organic packaging, the company will be introducing specialty packaging for some of their other lemons from next month. "We will also have Limoneira Meyer lemons in historic colorful displays along with Santa Meyer stand up pouches at leading retailers in November and December," Teague shared. "In conjunction, there will be sampling programs, in-store merchandising and delicious Meyer recipes."
Other launches and PMA
Limoneira are in the midst of a busy period. In addition to the launch of the organic program, the company are also introducing what they call the 'Mix and Match' program. Here, Limoneira are putting together a number of different lemon varieties. This program will be running from January until March next year.
"Our Mix and Match™ program features pink lemons, Meyer lemons and Limoneira classic lemons," Teague said. "Each of these lemon varieties have different taste profiles that pair perfectly with different recipes. Our marketing research confirms that not only does this program build sales in the produce category, it builds sales of complimentary products throughout a retail store."
At PMA Fresh Summit this week, visitors can find out more about the Mix and Match™ program at Limoneira's booth where they will also be featuring organic lemons alongside pink lemons. Limoneira will be at Booth #1543.
For more information:
Alex Teague
Limoneira
Tel: +1 (866) 321-8953
amteague@limoneira.com
www.limoneira.com