For International Fruit Company (IFC) of Hammonton, New Jersey, which sources primarily from South American at this time of year, that has led to strong sales for their current range of product. Norman Barao, IFC’s VP of Sales and Marketing, says that volume on Peruvian seeded grapes has increased over this time last year. “The open appearance of the grapes is fresh, and their flavor is outstanding,” Barao explains.
Barao says this has not been the case for all Peruvian grape crop. “The volume from Peru this year for green seedless grapes is down from last year at the same period.”
Strong season expected to continue
Barao says that as the California grape season winds down, east coast retailers annually look to other sources for fresher product. This means excellent market conditions for Peruvian grapes, which are available on the market through January. Barao reports that his company’s red globes have been seeing good movement so far this season.
The market should remain steady until Chilean grapes arrive, but Barao does not expect that to happen until at least mid-December. “In December you’ll see seedless varieties arriving.” Until that time, Peruvian seeded grapes will remain at the top of the east coast market, as Barao expects prices to remain high through the holiday season.
For more information:
Nathan Barao
International Fruit Company, Inc.
Tel: +1 609-878-3113
Email: norman.barao@internationalfruitcompany.com
www.internationalfruitcompany.com