© Continental FreshMexico's mango season is just a few weeks away from peak seasonal volumes and so far, it's smooth sailing. Shipments started in spring and are currently 16 percent higher compared to this time last year. "This has mostly been weather-driven as rain didn't interfere with early season fruit," says Albert Perez with Continental Fresh. Barring any weather events in the coming months, this trend of higher volume should continue. Total mango volume out of Mexico is projected to be 99 million cases, which would be an 11 percent increase over last season when total shipments amounted to 89 million cases.
Peak season is approaching
Supply is still ramping up and peak seasonal volumes will be available from about mid-June until the end of July. "Although supplies have been up, it hasn't diminished demand or pricing," shared Perez. With a steady to firm market, pricing has held strong, especially for high-quality fruit and larger sizes. "The best opportunities of the season are yet to come with peak volumes perfectly timed with the warm, summer vacation months." U.S. consumers continue to embrace mangos as a staple fruit and warmer weather in combination with seasonal promotions will help drive consistent movement at retail.
© Continental Fresh
Summer is an excellent time to ramp up large-scale promotions with big and beautiful store displays of colorful mangos.
Harvest transitions further north
At this point in the season, mangos are primarily sourced from Michoacan, but the transition into Nayarit and Sinaloa up north is beginning. Mango harvest in Oaxaca and Chiapas in the south is done. These regions were very productive, which resulted in ample promotions during the months of March, April, and May. Out of Michoacan, Kent is the predominant variety, known for its fiberless pulp and large sizing. As harvest moves north into Nayarit, the Tommy variety will become more prominent. Harvest will continue to move north until it finishes in regions like Los Mochis late August or early September, depending on weather conditions and crop maturity. "We are looking forward to a solid three to four months of continued supply."
Logistics have been fairly smooth. "Mangos have been flowing across the border efficiently so far this season as a result of our relationships with growers and logistics providers," said Perez. "We see it as a big part of our job to be thoroughly informed, anticipate on issues, and develop possible solutions. We understand the importance of keeping our customers informed, enabling them to maximize their offerings and sales."
For more information:
Albert Perez
Continental Fresh
Tel: +1 (305) 860-9611
[email protected]
www.continentalfresh.com
