The supply of blueberries is coming in heavily at the moment. “They’re coming out of both Peru and Chile right now,” says Ricky Armata of C&J Brothers. “Last year in February, the market was tight on blueberries. There were supposed to be big ads for February last year, but then they all got pulled because there was no fruit available.”
While Peru supplies blueberries virtually year-round, Chilean blueberries are in mid-season right now and will likely be shipping for at least another month. “Peru was late this year, and Chile was a little early--usually, there aren’t as many blueberries right now, but the two countries are overlapping. That started late December to early January,” says Armata.
Consistent movement
Meanwhile, demand is strong for blueberries, given the fruit is a staple item that sees consistent demand. “Supply is heavy, though, so the market is pretty depressed. However, fruit is moving along,” he says.
Pricing is low, which means promotional opportunities are available. “It’s a good item to promote, especially since strawberries are very expensive and raspberries are too. Berries are an essential category, and it’s the one berry they can promote right now,” says Armata.
Looking ahead, the next few weeks the focus will be on moving the ample blueberry volume. “I don’t see a shortage at all because it seems like everyone’s hitting peak volumes right now,” says Armata.
For more information:
Ricky Armata
C&J Brothers
Tel.: +1 (718) 991-5050
Ricky@candjbrothers.com
https://www.candjbrothers.com/