The end of the Mexican mango deal is nearing its culmination; Vision Import Group is now importing premium fruit from Brazil. “Supply has good promotional volumes at the moment. Historically Mexico leaves the market a little earlier, but their season was extended due to the historical volume exported,” said Ronnie Cohen. “This year because of Mother Nature the production was delayed early in the season, then concentrated for the balance of the campaign. There’s definitely enough supply arriving from Brazil. There’s no shortage of mango at the moment. Tommy Atkins is the largest percentage of the crop. “We have added our ‘Kiss’ Brand again, which is from the Palmer family, and is an excellent piece of fruit that looks to be an addition to the mango category,” he said. “The fruit has a unique elongated ovate shape with a deep, burgundy blush and when fully mature the internal flesh has a bright apricot hue. The flavour profile is an experience consumers have been asking for.”
The transition of seasons began earlier than expected, Cohen says. It’s neither good nor bad, but has to be planned in advance. “Information from the supply side, shared with the customers is critical, so we can get out in front of it, so retailers and other trade can program appropriately,” he said. “But when you have two production areas overlapping that can create a situation that, even if planned, can create some challenges.”
Cohen predicts a fast moving market for mango and prices that reflect that. “Brazil usually starts off high. In the last couple of years they’ve had some very good markets. This year I think it will be an aggressive one,” said Cohen. “I think we’ll have promotional volumes and promotional pricing. It’s good for the consumer.” Cohen was recently in Ecuador, which he says will also come on earlier and the country will also have promotional volume on a commodity with consumption that continues to rise. “I foresee good volumes, promotional pricing through to the end of the year.” I believe that customers can plan to have mango on the Thanksgiving table and I predict and encourage everyone to gift a mango to their family and friends into the holiday and the end of the year celebrations.
For more information:
Ronnie Cohen
Vision Import Group
Ph: (201) 968 1190