"The avocado market can be dynamic. And that's going to become apparent in the coming weeks. Within a few weeks, it will go from one extreme situation to the next," says Annabel Könst, avocado buyer at Nature's Pride in the Netherlands.
"In Europe, we've had increased exports from Peru over the past few weeks. After several stable weeks of about 600 containers in July, we jumped to 700 in the last two weeks. That's mainly due to El Niño's effects on this season's avocado crop. Temperatures have been high all season, so the fruit is ready for picking earlier. The peak is, thus, now over, and we're going to receive fewer and fewer volumes from Peru in the coming weeks. That season will be pretty much over by late September."
"Meanwhile, the winter origins are preparing to take over. That transition will, however, be slightly slower than last year, partly because, last year, Peru took up a big part of the market. This year we can mostly count that country out. There was a lot of competition last year, but this year, Chile will represent a large share of the European market. Therefore, more Chilean avocados will be available but they will be priced differently," explains Annabel.
"Other origins will also be on the market in the coming months. We expect the first Israeli avocados. These aren't yet large volumes, but some growers are ready to harvest earlier. Colombian avocados are also doing well, and Kenya is nearing the end of its season."
"Mexico will send more supply to Europe in the coming weeks. That season is starting later than usual, also because of El Niño," Annabel continues. "The Spanish season will begin in late November, but because of the heat, small numbers of avocados could come our way earlier. The Moroccan season, too, starts at the end of November, and this season's supply should be higher."
"While the current market is in a high supply, normal sales situation, we expect a reduced supply and increased sales in September due to back-to-school promotions throughout Europe. That market should be good with firm prices, especially from late September. In this dynamic market, we, of course, are working closely with our dedicated growers to ensure everyone enjoys the tastiest avocados," concludes the avocado buyer.
For more information:
Annabel Könst
Nature's Pride
Tel: +31 (0) 174 219 155
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.naturespride.nl