As the New Year begins, US importers are receiving fewer mangoes from Ecuador and turning to the Peruvian season. As a result, there is expected to be a reduction in availability as the amount of Ecuadorian fruit tapers off and before volume from Peru increases.
"We are just making our transition out of Ecuador and we will see final mango shipments during the second week of January," said Tom Hall of Freska Produce. "The first shipments out of Peru are expected during the first week of January with all Kent mangoes. During the transition phase, we typically see a drop in mango supply, as Ecuador volumes become lighter and Peru hasn't started their peak yet. This shortage is most apparent during the first two weeks of January and by the end of January, beginning of February, we will have a return to more promotable volumes."
Hall added that the situation is mimicked when it comes to organic fruit as well. "Organic volume also drops as Ecuador slows down and before Peru supplies increase. In February and into March, we will see organic Ataulfo mangoes from Mexico make a start for the season."
Higher demand period
According to suppliers, the period before Christmas and during the holidays typically experiences a dip in demand for mangoes. However, once New Year passes, demand strengthens again. Along with the drop in supply, this places a strain on the market which generally causes prices to rise.
"We expect the market to be stronger during the transition and then level out towards the end of January," Hall noted. "At this time of year, there is more demand as we come out of the Holiday season, with consumers showing greater interest in mangoes again."
Dried mango product in development
Freska Produce launched a new product in 2018 - a range of dried fruits, including mangoes. The company said it has just started the venture and is hoping to capture the market that is leaning towards healthy snack choices. The dried fruit product development is still in its early stages as Freska Produce looks to refine the options for buyers.
"We only just started getting into the dried mango program this past year," Hall shared. "It is still in development as we work out what packaging and sizing options will provide the best choices for our customers. At the moment, we are selling most of the product as bulk."
For more information:
Tom Hall
Freska Produce
Ph: +1 (805) 650-1040
[email protected]
www.freskaproduce.com
