After a winter of scarcity and high prices, the European avocado market is now facing a summer of more possibilities. Annabel Könst, Avocado Buyer at Nature's Pride, expects good availability in the coming weeks and a focus on smaller sizes. "It depends on the commitment of all parties involved to stabilize the avocado market, then the summer will be more balanced and consumers can fully enjoy the tastiest avocados."
The avocado buyer examines the summer options. "Currently, there is still a mix of Mediterranean and overseas avocado varieties on the market, coming from countries like Spain, Colombia, Peru, South Africa, Israel, Kenya, and Tanzania. The Mediterranean harvest is nearing its end, shifting the focus to South Africa and Peru."
Peru
"Peru, one of the main suppliers, shows a decline in supply throughout the season. Despite the lower availability compared to last year, we expect a more stable market than the previous season. Peru has faced delays this year, especially in the north, due to the effects of El Niño. Nevertheless, there is currently better availability of Peruvian avocados on the market, mainly from the highlands of Peru. However, we currently see in the market that there is also a lot of product in circulation with minimal or no certifications and with a low dry matter content, which disrupts the market for growers who want to do the right thing. At Nature's Pride, we always value good quality and certification."
Annabel visiting the Peruvian suppliers.
North / Central / South
"From week 18/19, the volume from the north will increase and they will take over from the fruit from the highlands in Peru. The north (including regions: Lambayaque, Motupe, Olmos) is estimated to have 30-50% less fruit than last year. The central regions of Peru (Trujillo, Viru, Chao, Chepen) generally have less volume available compared to previous years, so no excessive large and prolonged overlap is expected with the fruit from the north. Fortunately, we see a slight improvement in availability in the south of Peru (Lima, Chincha, Nazca), but due to strong demand from markets such as Chile and America, there will not be a significant increase in supply to Europe in the coming weeks. This distribution will lead to a better balance, in both the European and other global markets," Annabel explains.
South Africa
"South Africa has tried to fill the gap created by the delay from Peru in March and April, but several rainy days and logistical problems have hampered their efforts. Despite their efforts to be on the market in bulk from mid-March, they are expected to be present in the market with more volume than planned in May and June."
Other summer sources
"Colombia is also currently on the market with the first fruit of the summer season (Traviesa season) and will continue to provide deliveries throughout the summer. However, they will mainly focus on the American market due to expected demand and favorable prices. Other suppliers, such as Kenya and Tanzania, have had good supply these weeks, but will ship less in the coming weeks to relieve the market in May. All in all, we do not expect shortages, but also no major surpluses. There is enough potential for a nice stable market."
South Africa.
Informing and inspiring - preparation and health benefits
"It remains important to inform consumers about avocados, and to inspire them. Many consumers are not fully aware of the many health benefits and nutritional values that avocados offer, and may not know all the ways to prepare them. To address this, we plan to run the 'Avocado All Day' campaign from May to September in collaboration with the World Avocado Organization (WAO). This campaign will inspire consumers with tasty and simple recipe ideas. We will combine promotions and activations in stores with online interactions to increase impact and measure results. By promoting avocados as a versatile and healthy food choice for any time of the day, we aim to make a positive impact on eating habits and contribute to a healthier society," Annabel concludes.
For more information:
Annabel Könst
Nature's Pride
+31 (0)174 219155
[email protected]
www.naturespride.nl