The demand for avocados for Cinco de Mayo–a high avocado consumption holiday–looks similar to last year's pull. "The holiday always has good demand. Retailers and the public get pretty excited about Cinco," says Rob Ybarra, executive vice president of Villita Avocados, adding that while Monday holidays aren't ideal in terms of movement, Cinco de Mayo will likely see celebrations–and avocado consumption–throughout the weekend.
© Villita Avocado
The avocado pull for the holiday comes just shortly after a late Easter this year–another holiday that generally sees an increase in produce sales. Memorial Day is also ahead in May. "This was a little different this year–last year there was more of a gap between Easter and Cinco but after Cinco, I think demand will be brisk," says Ybarra.
As for supply, it's healthy right now. "It's very good from Mexico but also from all over. California has great supply, Colombia is joining in as is Peru and the Dominican Republic," says Ybarra. "This is probably the best supply that I've seen in a couple of years. Customers can pretty much buy avocados from any region right now."
Peru's avocado supply
Peru is just starting its production. "They're starting to get some momentum but June and July for Peru will be their top months," says Ybarra. Meanwhile, Colombia helps supply North America with fruit except for some pauses.
© Villita Avocado
All of this is leaving pricing better this year. "Last year we had that USDA stoppage in supply and that's when pricing went sky high," says Ybarra. "Pricing is getting a bit more stable and into a cadence where there's not a lot of delta between the highs and lows. It's pretty constant and I think we're in a good place."
For more information:
Rob Ybarra
Villita Avocados
[email protected]
https://villitaavocados.com/
