"Avocado sales got off to a great start this year. Many supermarket chains took advantage of the 'healthy intentions' momentum to highlight avocados, known as a 'superfood.' Many promotions were, thus, scheduled," says Elena Rogojnikova, senior buyer at The Greenery International in the Netherlands.
"Even though prices were on the high side due to low availability. For example, Israel has less of both Hass and Greenskins. The cold weather during flowering caused that. As a result, that country didn't have enough fruit to meet all its customer demands. The size range was also smaller than average."
Good demand expected; availability will prove challenging
"The trend that began at the start of 2023 will continue until June, known, for years, as the top avocado month. Every year, avocado popularity increases among consumers. The South African season began earlier this year with hefty volumes of Fuerte and Pinkertons, mainly in large sizes," Elena explains.
"However, the heavy rains in Levubu and Tzaneen caused skin damage and stem rot. Along with higher volumes, that led to a rapid price drop for greenskins in April. It also affected the pricing of Fuerte from Kenya and Zutano from Peru. Logistical problems in Peru partly caused the South African season's early start."
"Mainly Russia usually bought greenskins, but the Ukranian war means things are different this season. According to Dutch exporters to Russia, there's also less demand for avocadoes on the Russian market than in previous years," Elena continues. "So, greenskin avocadoes are sold mainly to Eastern and Central Europe, the Baltic countries, Greece and Italy."
"There are fewer South African Hass avocados this year, and fewer Ryans are expected in the coming months. Over the next three weeks, we expect somewhat fewer greenskins from South Africa, which will increase prices. Volumes should start picking up from week 24 again. Also, the recent Peruvian, Colombian, and Kenyan supply has been plentiful. Over the past few years, avocados from Kenya have developed positively, quality-wise. Tanzania, too, is slowly gaining a place in the European avocado market," Elena concludes.
For more information:
Elena Rogojnikova
The Greenery
Mob: +31 (0) 652 647 600
Email: e.rogojnikova@thegreenery.com