The supply of Mexican avocados is currently about a month behind typical levels, though it's gradually catching up. "We've had approximately four weeks of consistent rain, which has been beneficial," says Rob Ybarra, executive vice president of Villita Avocados. He notes this follows a summer marked by extreme heat. "Since the start of the new season, the industry has been trailing by a month."
These recent rains are expected to improve the sizing of avocados from Mexico's aventajada crop. Larger sizes should start appearing in January-February, aligning with the peak demand season around the Super Bowl. "We hoped to see a better size distribution by mid-November, favoring larger sizes," says Ybarra. He anticipates an increase in sizes 32, 36, and 40 by December.
Other factors affecting the delay include the dry matter requirement of 24 and recent national holidays, which paused picking and packing for two days.
Rising demand for avocados
Demand for avocados is also picking up. "Over the next 14 days, we're anticipating strong sales activity. We have larger purchase orders coming in, putting us in a favorable position," says Ybarra. He expects robust sales over the next two weeks, despite Thanksgiving typically being a slower period followed by a quieter week.
For more information:
Rob Ybarra
Villita Avocados
[email protected]
https://villitaavocados.com/