According to a recently published statistical report of the USDA a decrease in volume is expected in Florida for most citrus fruit, the largest decrease is for oranges and for other citrus fruit a loss of 3 million boxes of a total of 66 $ million. The estates did not only suffer frost damage but also experienced the results of the hurricanes of a number of years ago, which spread citrus canker over a wide area in Florida.

 

Less grapefruit sold

According to Ton Feelders of Total Produce, market leader in Florida grapefruit, and for a number of decades in cooperation with shipper DNE, the decrease in supply of grape fruit has hardly been noticeable and the arranged volumes are being sent to Europe without any problem. The market for grapefruit should improve in January again after the traditionally quiet month of December, but with the protracted cold weather and the still difficult economic climate there is a somewhat decreased consumption behaviour with the consumer, undoubtedly causing less grapefruit being sold compared to previous years.

 

Good prices

The prices for the Star Ruby variety remain, however, at the same level as in previous years. Large sizes are not available in large volumes, but for instance size 32 is being sold for 19,00 Euros whilst size 56 can easily be sold for 15,00 Euros.

Undoubtedly this has to do with the strength of the variety "Indian River Pride". There are, however, also other varieties, such as Florida Famous and River Quality, which are marketed at lower prices, enabling not so wealthy customers to purchase grapefruit as well. Ruby Red grapefruit in smaller sizes is also available at 11,50 to 12,00 Euro.

 

The prices in Florida will, especially for the Red Ruby (which is about 80% of the volume) remain stable. Also because of a somewhat more expensive dollar it is expected that the price in Europe will remain stable till the end of the season.