Suppliers are now starting to see the latter varieties of South African citrus making their way to the North American market. With about six more weeks of the season to run, the numbers are pointing to a decline in overall Navel orange volume compared with last year, with a contrasting increase in volume for clementines/mandarins.
"We are expecting the last arrivals of South African citrus to come around mid-October," shared Miles Fraser-Jones, Director of Global Business Development at Seven Seas Fruit, part of the Tom Lange group. "Currently, we are seeing the late clementines, including Nadorcott and Mor, Midknight Navels, and also Star Ruby grapefruit. Navel volume is substantially down from 2018, with an estimate for 1.4 million cartons, compared with 2.2 million last year."
He noted that strong winds had scarred some of the Navel orange crop, resulting in some cosmetic damage. Conversely, the increase in clementines was attributed to additional acreage as well as new plantations coming online. "We are seeing a 30 percent increase in clementine volume, from 590,000 cartons last year, to 850,000 cartons this year," Fraser-Jones observed. "Some of the biggest increases are being seen in the later varieties such as Nadorcott."
Clementines outperforming Navels
The increase in volume of clementines is an effect of how the market is moving, especially in North America. Demand for clementines is increasing at the expense of Navel oranges. The additional preparation time for Navels is apparently hurting demand, while clementines are being favored as a healthy snack, especially for kids. Subsequently, demand is expected to only increase in the coming months.
"There is very strong demand for clementines, and this will increase from now with the onset of cooler weather and children going back to school," Fraser-Jones said. "They are easier to eat but unfortunately they are cannibalizing the Navel market. Clementine sales have been consistent and stable all season and are expected to continue that way."
Meanwhile, the Navel market has been better than last year, but has still faced some pressure. "California went long this year - until the end of July - and South African Navels entered the market in early July," he added. "Consequently, it has taken some time to get shelf space."
The "Star" of the season
The overall citrus category has been enjoying steady growth, but one variety is showing exceptionally good signs for future expansion. According to Fraser-Jones, South African Star Ruby grapefruit has been accepted well into the North American market, and suppliers are keen to increase growth.
"Sales have been very strong over the last three to four years," he explained. "We see excellent opportunity for growth and are anticipating continued increased demand for Star Ruby. Also the clementine market will continue to mature and grow. As a company, Seven Seas Fruit has consistently seen year on year growth in the order of 10 - 15 percent each year."
For more information:
Miles Fraser-Jones
Seven Seas - New Jersey
Ph: +1 (856) 245-9280 x18008
Cell: +1 (856) 693-2217
mfjones@sevenseastlc.com
www.sevenseasfruit.com