Market Trends: Week of 08 August, 2016

Tomatoes

East

• Rounds- Supplies in the east continue to be fragmented and light.  Demand remains light which is keeping supplies and demand in equilibrium and FOB prices steady from last week.  The east continues to have to go west to meet demand and the west is determining the market in the east. Due to the heat and afternoon storms, quality continues to be variable. AL, AK, VA, SC and NC fields continue to produce.  

• Romas- Roma supplies are light and fragmented also but FOB prices are down due to light demand. Quality is variable due to the heat and storms.  FOB prices are down on all sizes.

• Grapes- Good supplies are being harvested from our NC and VA eastern shore fields.  FOB prices have continued to drop this week and quality continues to be good.

• Cherries- Supplies and demand continue to be generally light.  FOB prices are steady compared to last week. Quality is good.

• Weather forecast- NC/TN Mountains: A little cooler with daytime highs in upper 70s to upper 80s through early next week.  Lows will be generally in the mid to upper 60s.  A good chance of storms, possibly severe, every day. Western SC:  Partly cloudy to mostly sunny.  A little cooler with highs in the low 80s to low 90s. A good chance of storms, possibly severe, every day.

West/Mexico

• Rounds- Vine-ripes continue to cross at Baja and McAllen. CA mature-green growers continue to harvest.  Supplies are light but weak demand is putting downward pressure on FOB prices. We have previously reported about the severe heat that the growing regions have experience the past several weeks.  We have not seen the heat effect quality to a large degree yet.   However, the real effects of these extreme temperatures will not be seen for another 30-45 days.  We expect both quality and quantity to suffer around the first of September.

• Romas- Supplies continue to come out of Baja and CA. Even though the east is having to come west to meet all of its demand, demand remains sluggish.  Like the rounds, we are keeping a close eye on quality due to the excessive heat the crop has gone through. FOB prices are down on all sizes from last week.

• Grapes- Supplies continue mainly out of Baja with very good volume. We continue to see a wide range in quality. FOB prices are variable (depending on quality) but are down slightly again this week.

• Cherries- FOB prices are down slightly this week.  Quality is fair to good. 

Green Bell Pepper

East- Weak demand is putting downward pressures on FOB prices this week.  Supplies continue to be fragmented with supplies coming from NC to MI.  Quality is generally very good.

West- Supplies continue to be weak but demand is even weaker.  FOB prices are down on all grades compared to last week.

Yellow Squash

East- FOB prices are stronger this week as the growing regions remain fragmented.  Quality is generally good.

West- Weak demand and better supplies are causing FOB prices to fall this week.  Quality is variable but continues to improve.

Green Squash

East- FOB prices are higher this week on both grades.  We continue to harvest fields in SC, NC, MI and the Northeast. The large zucchini are in extreme short supply due to the cooler and wet weather MI has experienced this week.

West- FOB prices are generally down this week. Supplies are coming from Santa Maria and Washington fields. Quality is good.

Green Beans - Beans are still plentiful and quality is good. 

 Cucumbers- East- MI, NY and NJ are seeing good supplies. Demand continues to be sluggish.  Growers in MI are letting their older fields go due to the low market prices.  We are seeing some quality issues due to the weather.  FOB prices are steady to up this week.

West- Supplies coming from Baja and quality is extremely variable. FOB prices are generally higher on all grades and sizes compared to last week.  Demand continues to be weak. When demand is this weak, even a small change in that demand (or supplies) can have a dramatic effect on prices.

Eggplant

East- FOB prices are steady to down slightly from last week. Quality of eggplant is very good.

West- FOB prices are steady to down again this week.  Quality is good.

Jalapenos

East- FOB prices are up slightly this week.  Quality continues to be generally good.

Market Trends: Week of 01 August, 2016

Tomatoes

East

• Rounds- Supplies in the east continue to be fragmented and light.  Demand is also relatively light which is keeping supplies and demand in equilibrium and FOB prices steady from last week.  In the near future we may be some upward pressure on prices to keep in step with the western market. The east continues to have to go west to meet demand. Due to the heat and afternoon storms quality continues to be only fair to good. AL, AK, VA, SC and NC fields continue to produce.  

• Romas- Like the rounds, roma supplies are light and fragmented in the east. Quality is variable and weaker this week due to the heat and storms.  FOB prices are steady on XL and L sizes and up slightly on the medium size.

• Grapes- Good supplies are being harvested from our NC and VA eastern shore fields. FOB prices have continued to drop this week and quality continues to be good.

• Cherries- Supplies and demand continue to generally light.  FOB prices are down slightly compared to last week. Quality is good.

• Weather forecast- NC/TN Mountains: A little cooler with daytime highs in the mid to upper 80s through early next week.  Lows will be generally in the mid to upper 60s.  A chance of storms everyday with the chances increasing going into the weekend and into next week. Western SC:  Partly cloudy to mostly sunny and continued hot with highs in mid 90s.  A chance of storms everyday with the chances increasing toward the end of the weekend and into next week.

West/Mexico

• Rounds- Vine-ripes continue to cross at Baja and McAllen. CA mature-green growers continue to harvest but are currently picking only three days a week.  It has been extremely hot for the past seven straight days with highs between102-108 each day.  We expect day time highs to continue to exceed 100 degrees through Friday.  Quality of the mature greens is variable and continues to deteriorate. However, the real effects of these extreme temperatures will not be seen for another 45 days.  We expect both quality and quantity to suffer around the first of September. There is currently a wider than normal range in FOB prices corresponding to the quality being sold.

• Romas- Supplies continue to come out of Baja and CA. Demand is sluggish.  Like the rounds, quality is not as good as it has been and is much more variable. There is a wider than normal range in FOB prices and are generally down from last week for all sizes.

• Grapes- Supplies continue mainly out of Baja with very good volume. We continue to see a wide range in quality. FOB prices are variable (depending on quality) but are down again this week.

• Cherries- FOB prices are steady this week.  Quality is fair to good.

Green Bell Pepper

East- Good supplies and weak demand is causing FOB prices to fall again this week.  Supplies continue to be fragmented with supplies coming from NC to MI.  Quality is generally very good.

West- Supplies continue to be weak but demand is even weaker.  FOB prices are down on all grades compared to last week.

Yellow Squash

East- Supplies, demand and FOB prices remain generally steady from last week.  Quality is generally good.

West- Slight upward pressure on FOB prices this week.  Quality is variable but continues to improve.

Green Squash

East- Strong supplies continue and FOB prices are generally steady with downward pressure on both grades.  We continue to harvest fields in SC, NC, MI and the Northeast. Quality is very good.

West- FOB prices are generally steady this week. Supplies are coming from Santa Maria andWashington fields. Quality is good.

Cucumbers

East- MI, NY and NJ are seeing strong supplies. Demand continues to be sluggish.  Growers in MI are letting their older fields go due to the low market prices.  FOB prices are steady at low levels with continued downward pressure.

West- Supplies coming from Baja and quality is extremely variable. FOB prices are generally lower on all grades and sizes compared to last week.

Eggplant

East- Better supplies have put downward pressure on FOB prices. Quality of eggplant is very good.

West- FOB prices are down again this week.  Quality is good.

Jalapenos

East- FOB prices are down this week.  Quality continues to be generally good.

West- FOB prices are steady with upward pressure.

Market Trends: Week of 25 July, 2016

Week of July 25,2016

Tomatoes

East

• Rounds- Supplies in the east continue to be fragmented and light. This year the growers are 10-12 days behind schedule and are selling out daily. FOB prices are higher on all sizes compared to last week. The quality is not as good as it has been the past several weeks and is now only fair to good. The east continues to have to go west to meet demand. AL, AK, SC and NC fields are producing. The eastern shore of VA have also started to be harvested in a light way.

• Romas- Like the rounds, roma supplies are light and fragmented in the east. Quality is variable. FOB prices are higher on all sizes.

• Grapes- More supplies are being harvested from the VA eastern shore fields. The fields in the NC mountains continue to produce. FOB prices are lower compared to last week. Quality is good.

• Cherries- Supplies continue to be light and FOB prices are steady from last week. Quality is good.

• Weather forecast- NC/TN Mountains: Partly cloudy and hot through early next week with highs near 90. Lows will be generally in the upper 60s. A chance of storms everyday with the chances increasing toward the end of the weekend and into next week. Western SC: Partly cloudy and hot with highs in mid 90s to 100 degrees. A good chance of storms everyday through the weekend.

West/Mexico

• Rounds- Vine-ripes continue to cross at Baja and McAllen. CA mature green growers continue to harvest. Quality of the mature greens continue to deteriorate and is only fair best. Shrinkage at the repack level sometimes is reaching 50%. There is a wider than normal range in FOB prices corresponding to the quality being sold.

• Romas- Supplies continue to come out of Baja and CA. We continue to see strong demand. Like the rounds, quality is not as good as it has been and is much more variable. There is a wide than normal range in FOB prices but they will be generally unchanged from last week.

• Grapes- Supplies continue mainly out of Baja with more volume. We continue to see a wide range in quality. FOB prices are variable (depending on quality) but are moderately down from last week.

• Cherries- FOB prices are steady to down slightly from last week. Quality is fair to good.

Green Bell Pepper

East- More supplies are available this week and MI will be starting by the end of the week. FOB prices are moderately to sharply down on all sizes and grades. Quality is generally very good.

West- It is a different story in the west as we are about one week away from additional supplies. FOB prices are generally steady this week compared to last week.

Yellow Squash

East- Supplies and demand remain steady from last week. FOB prices are general steady with downward pressure on the fancy grade and upward pressure on mediums. Quality is generally good.

West- More supplies are available in the west. Supplies are coming from Santa Maria and Eastern Washington. Quality is variable but continues to improve. FOB prices are lower in the west compared to last week.

Green Beans - Beans are being harvested on VA Eastern Shore and Central New York. Quality and supplies remain good with prices at the lower end.

Green Squash -East- Strong supplies continue and FOB prices are generally steady with downward pressure on both grades. We continue to harvest fields in SC, NC and the Northeast. Some growers in MI have stopped harvesting their fields due to low market prices. Quality is very good.

West- FOB prices are lower again this week due to stronger supplies. Supplies are coming from Santa Maria and Washington fields. Quality continues to improve.

Cucumbers- East- More growing regions are coming on line. MI, NY and NJ are seeing strong supplies. This increase in supplies has put downward pressure on FOB prices again this week.

West- There is downward pressure (though not as strong as in the east) on FOB prices as more growers have begun out of Baja.

Eggplant

East- The market is active with upward pressure on FOB prices. Quality of eggplant is very good.

West- FOB prices are generally steady this week. Quality is good.

Jalapenos

East- FOB prices are steady this week. Quality continues to be generally good

Market Trends: Week of 18 July, 2016

Tomatoes

East

Rounds- Supplies in the east continue to be fragmented and light. FOB prices remain steady from last week. The east is having to go west to meet demand. AL, AK, SC and NC fields are producing and quality is very good.  The Eastern shore of VA should start up within a week.

Romas- Like the rounds, roma supplies are light and fragmented in the east.  Quality is variable but generally good.  FOB prices are steady on XL or L sizes.  There is downward pressure on the medium size.

Grapes- FOB prices remain steady from last week.  Quality is very good.

Cherries- Supplies are light and FOB prices are higher this week. Quality is good.

Weather forecast- NC/TN Mountains:  A good chance of storms everyday through early next week.  Highs will be in the 80s with lows in the mid-60s. Western SC:  Mostly sunny until the weekend with little chance of rain.  Highs will be in the mid-90s with lows near 70.  A good chance of storms over the weekend.

West/Mexico

Rounds- Vine-ripes continue to cross at Baja and McAllen.  CA mature green growers continue to harvest. Quality of the mature greens are not as good this week due to wind scarring, especially on the larger fruit.  FOB prices are steady to slightly higher on all sizes.

Romas- Supplies continue to come out of Baja and CA. We continue to see strong demand.  There is upward pressure on all sizes. Quality is good.

Grapes- Supplies continue mainly out of Baja. We continue to see a wide range in quality.  FOB prices are variable (depending on quality) and generally higher from last week.

Cherries- Supplies are a little tighter this week putting upward pressure on FOB prices.  Quality is fair to good. 

Green Bell Pepper

East- The heat is bringing an earlier than normal end to our southern fields and we are about one week away from the MI fields starting to produce.  This “mini”-gap is putting some upward pressure on FOB prices.  Quality is generally good.

West- We are also transitioning in the west as Bakersville is winding down.  FOB prices are generally steady with upward pressure.

Yellow Squash

East- Supplies are stronger as more growers come on-line.  FOB prices are lower.  Quality is generally good.

West- More supplies are also available in the west. Supplies are coming from Santa Maria and Eastern Washington.  Quality is variable but continues to improve. FOB prices are lower in the west also.

Green Squash

East- Stronger supplies are pushing FOB prices lower on all grades and sizes.  Growers continue to harvest fields in SC, NC and the Northeast.

West- FOB prices are lower this week due to stronger supplies. Supplies are coming from Santa Maria and Washington fields.  Quality remains variable but also continues to improve.

Green Beans -  Eastern Shore is picking up om volume, pricing is adjusted back down into the teens. Quality is good.

Cucumbers- East- More growing regions are coming on line as MI an NJ have started up.  This increase in supplies has put strong downward pressure on FOB prices.

West- There is downward pressure on FOB prices as more growers have begun out of Baja.

Eggplant

East- FOB prices are higher this week as supplies are tighter.  Quality of eggplant is very good.

West- FOB prices are lower again this week.  Supplies are coming primarily from the Fresno fields.

Jalapenos

East- FOB prices are up slightly this week as supplies are tighter.  Quality continues to be generally good.

Market Trends: Week of 11 July, 2016

Tomatoes

East

Rounds- As reported last week, the northern FL and coastal SC fields are at the end of the season and growers are cleaning up their fields.  As growers move northward for the summer, the market becomes more fragmented.  AL, AR, and western SC fields have started producing with light volume.  Supplies are currently a little lighter this week as we transition into these more northern fields.  Quality out of the northern fields is very good to excellent while the quality of the older southern fields is variable. Supplies of the ex-large tomatoes are tighter and FOB prices are higher as a result.   Supplies for the large size is generally steady and there is less upward pressure on that size.  Supplies for the medium size remains strong and FOB prices are actually seeing downward pressure.  Growers in the mountains of NC and TN should be starting up this week.  Our fields on the eastern shore of VA should start up within the next week or two. 

Romas- Like the rounds, we are transitioning into the northern summer fields. Supplies are down temporarily this week during the transition putting upward pressure on FOB prices, especially the smaller sizes.  Quality continues to be good.

Grapes- FOB prices remain relatively low but stronger demand continues to put upward pressure on FOB prices.  Quality is very good.

Cherries- FOB prices for cherry tomatoes are steady to down this week. Quality is good.

Weather forecast- NC/TN Mountains:  A good chance of storms everyday through early next week.  Highs will be near 90 and lows will be in the 60s. Western SC:  Variable cloudiness with highs in the mid to upper 90s.  A chance of storms, possibly severe, most afternoons and nights through early next week.

West/Mexico

Rounds- Vine-ripes continue to cross at Baja and McAllen.  All CA mature green growers continue to harvest.  FOB prices are steady to lower on all sizes.  Quality of the mature greens is improving as we get further away from the abnormally high temperatures the fields experienced.    

Romas- Supplies continue to be good out of Baja and FOB prices remain generally steady from last week. We are seeing stronger demand this week.  CA growers also continue to pick. Quality is good.  FOB prices are generally steady with downward pressure.

Grapes- Supplies continue mainly out of Baja. We continue to see a wide range in quality.  FOB prices are variable (depending on quality) and generally higher from last week.

Cherries- FOB prices generally steady.  Quality is fair to good.

Green Bell Pepper

East- Our NC crop continues in full production with good supplies. Like tomatoes, the market is becoming more fragmented as we move northward. We are seeing downward pressure on FOB prices on all sizes and grades.  Quality out of our NC fields is very good.

West- Better supplies from northern CA fields is causing FOB prices to fall.  Quality is improving.

Yellow Squash

East- Supplies are stronger as more growers come on-line.  FOB prices are lower.  Quality is generally good.

West- More supplies are also available in the west. Supplies are coming from Santa Maria and Eastern Washington.  Quality is variable but continues to improve. FOB prices are lower in the west also.

Green Squash

East- Stronger supplies are pushing FOB prices lower on all grades and sizes.  We continue to harvest fields in SC, NC and the Northeast.

West- FOB prices are lower this week due to stronger supplies. Supplies are coming from Santa Maria and Washington fields.  Quality remains variable but also continues to improve.

Green Bens

The eastern shore of Virginia is in production in a small way. Market is expected to remain strong fro the next few weeks.

Cucumbers 

East- More growing regions are coming on line as MI an NJ have started up.  This increase in supplies has put downward pressure on FOB prices.

West- Product continues to cross at Nogales and Baja but Nogales is at the very end of its crop.  There is downward pressure on FOB prices as a few more growers have begun out of Baja.

Eggplant

East- Plentiful supplies continue to put downward pressure on FOB prices.  Quality of eggplant is very good.

West- FOB prices are lower this week.  Supplies are coming primarily from the Fresno fields.

JALAPENOS

East- FOB prices are down slightly this week as more growers begin to harvest.  Quality out of these new northern fields is good.  We continue to see quality issues out the GA fields as that crop comes to an end.

West- FOB prices are steady to slightly lower this week.  Quality is good.

Market Trends: Week of 04 July, 2016

Tomatoes

East

Rounds- FOB prices remain steady with downward pressure for all sizes from last week’s levels.  Supplies continue to be available from several areas.  The northern FL, GA and coastal SC fields will be wrapping up this week.  AL and AR fields have started producing.  Our suppliers are scheduled to begin harvesting their western SC fields this Friday and their western NC fields should begin shortly thereafter.  The TN mountain fields are scheduled to begin the week of July 4.  Finally, VA eastern shore fields should start producing in a light way around the middle of July.  Once these fields begin producing there will be several starts and stops due to the fact that several plantings had to be delayed due to rains earlier this spring.  Nevertheless, there should be plenty of supplies around to meet the weak demand we have been seeing much of this year.  Quality is good.

Romas- Good supplies continue to put downward pressures on already low FOB prices for all sizes.  Quality continues to be good.

Grapes- FOB prices remain low but stronger demand has caused prices to get up off the floor this week.  We do not expect prices to continue to rise in the near future.  Quality is very good.

Cherries- FOB prices for cherry tomatoes are also off the floor this week but remain very low.  Like the grapes, we do not see much additional upward pressure on cherries. Quality is good.

Weather forecast- NC/TN Mountains:  A good chance of storms on Wednesday and over the weekend.  Highs will be in the lower to mid-80s and lows will be in the 60s. Western SC:  Mostly sunny with highs near 90.   Little chance of storms until the weekend.

West/Mexico

Rounds- Vine-ripes continue to cross at Baja and McAllen.  All CA mature green growers are now harvesting.  Supplies are good and demand continues to remain light causing FOB prices to drift lower on all sizes. However, the recent high temperatures have caused the quality of the mature greens to be fair at best due to softness and bruising.   

Romas- Supplies continue to be good out of Baja and FOB prices remain generally steady from last week. The size of romas are running smaller this week.  CA growers continue to pick their fields this week. Quality is good.  We expect volume out of Baja to continue strong for two more weeks and then volume should start to drop off which may but upward pressure on FOB prices.

Grapes- Supplies continue mainly out of Baja. We continue to see a wide range in quality.  FOB prices are variable (depending on quality) and generally steady from last week.  McAllen supplies are dwindling. 

Cherries- FOB prices generally steady at or near the Suspension Agreement minimums.  Quality is fair to good.

Green Bell Pepper

East- The GA crop is rapidly winding down and quality is suspect.  The NC crop continues in full production. We are seeing downward pressure on FOB prices on all sizes.  However, the FOB prices of the choice grade is higher.  Quality out of  NC fields is good.

West- Bakersfield is winding down with light volume due to the high temperatures.  The Fresno growing region is now in production.  Currently, FOB prices remain generally steady from last week.  Quality is variable.

Yellow Squash

East- Supplies are stronger as more growers come on-line.  FOB prices are responding.  Sourcing primarily from SC and NC.  Quality is variable but continues to improve.

West- More supplies are also available in the west. Supplies are coming from Santa Maria and Eastern Washington.  Quality is variable but improving. FOB prices are lower in the west also.

Green Squash

East- Stronger supplies are pushing FOB prices lower on all grades and sizes.  Our growers continue to harvest fields in SC, NC and the Northeast.

West- FOB prices are lower this week due to stronger supplies. Supplies are coming from Santa Maria and Washington fields.  Quality remains variable but is improving.

Cucumbers

East- Supplies are a little tighter and we are seeing a wide range of quality and FOB prices.  Better quality is bringing higher prices.  We look for increased supplies after the holiday as Michigan and NJ start.  This increase in supplies should put downward pressure on FOB prices.

West- Product continues to cross at Nogales and Baja but Nogales is at the end of its crop.  There is downward pressure on FOB prices as a few more growers have begun out of Baja.

Eggplant

East- Plentiful supplies continue to put downward pressure on FOB prices.  Quality of eggplant is very good.

West- FOB prices are lower this week.  Supplies are coming primarily from the Fresno fields.

Jalapenos

East- FOB prices are higher again this week and we continue to see quality issues out of the GA fields.

West- FOB prices are higher this week.  Quality is good.

Market Trends: Week of 27 June, 2016

Tomatoes

East

• Rounds- Weak demand and good supplies continue to put downward pressure on FOB prices for all sizes. Supplies are available from several areas. The GA and coastal SC fields should continue producing into the first week of July. AL and AR fields are starting to be harvested in a light way. More volume will be coming from those fields in the weeks to come. Western SC and NC fields should begin later this week and next week. The TN mountain fields are scheduled to begin around July 4. Finally, our VA eastern shore fields should start producing in a light way around the middle of July. Once these fields begin producing there will be several starts and stops due to the fact that several plantings had to be delayed due to rains earlier this spring. Nevertheless, there should be plenty of supplies around to meet the anemic demand we have been seeing much of this year. Quality is good.

• Romas- FOB prices are generally steady on all sizes. Quality continues to be good.

• Grapes- FOB prices are lower again this week due to weak demand and good supplies. Quality is very good.

• Cherries- FOB prices are also lower again this week. Quality is good.

• Weather forecast- Beaufort, SC: Hot with little chance of rain every day this week. Highs will be in the low to upper 90s with lows in the mid to upper 70s. A chance of storms early next week.

West/Mexico

• Rounds- Vine-ripes continue to cross at Baja and McAllen. All CA mature green growers are now harvesting. Supplies are generally light but demand is even lighter causing FOB prices to drift lower. The growing fields have been extremely hot with highs around 105. Quality has been generally fair at best but we are seeing better quality on the near horizon. We will keep an eye out to see how this heat affects quality in the future.

• Romas- Supplies continue to be good out of Baja and FOB prices remain generally steady from last week. We are seeing some slight upward pressure on the larger sizes. CA growers have started to pick their fields this week. Quality is very good.

• Grapes- Supplies continue mainly out of Baja. We continue to see a wide range in quality. FOB prices are variable (depending on quality) and slightly higher from last week.

• Cherries- FOB prices generally steady at or near the Suspension Agreement minimums. Quality is slightly better.

Green Bell Pepper

East- The GA crop is rapidly winding down. The quality of any remaining growers still harvesting is suspect. NC crop is in full production. We are seeing slight upward pressure on FOB prices. Quality out of our NC fields is good.

West- Bakersfield is winding down a little earlier this year due to the high temperatures. We are beginning to transition into the Fresno growing regions. Currently, FOB prices remain generally steady from last week. Quality is variable.

Yellow Squash

East- FOB prices are generally stable. Sourcing primarily from SC and NC. Quality is variable but improving.

West- Supplies of medium size yellow squash are limited this week causing FOB prices to rise from last week. FOB prices for fancy grade remain generally steady. Supplies are coming from Santa Maria. Quality is variable. Eastern Washington fields are in production.

Green Squash

East- FOB prices are generally steady to this week and quality is generally good. We continue to harvest fields in SC and NC. Later this week the northeast should begin to harvest which will likely put downward pressure on FOB prices.

West- FOB prices are higher this week. Supplies are coming from Santa Maria and Washington fields. Quality remains variable.

Green Beans

FOB Pricing remains high! Growers finishing up in Georgia and NC volume is unable to support demand. Quality is good.

Cucumbers- East- FOB prices are slightly higher this week on supers and steady to down slightly on selects. Quality remains generally good.

West- Product continues to cross at Nogales and Baja but Nogales is at the end of its crop. FOB prices remain at low levels. Demand is stronger which may begin to exert upward pressure on prices.

Eggplant

East- Plentiful supplies are putting downward pressure on FOB prices, especially for the fancy grade. Quality of eggplant is very good.

West- FOB prices are steady to slightly lower this week. Supplies are coming primarily from the Fresno fields.

Jalapenos

East- FOB prices are higher again this week and we are now seeing some quality issues out of the GA fields.

West- FOB prices are generally steady to higher this week. Quality is good

Market Trends: Week of 20 June, 2016

Tomatoes

East

Rounds- Weak demand and good supplies are putting downward pressure on FOB prices for all sizes. The hot weather has put an early end to crown picking in our coastal SC fields and we are already into 2nd picking. The inland SC region along with AL and TN will start up in a light way next week. Quality and shelf-life suffered somewhat last week as we transitioned from the FL fields into the SC fields and the fruit was subject to the wind and rains from Tropical Storm Colin. However, the fruit coming out of the fields now is looking better.

Romas- FOB prices are slightly higher on the larger sizes and steady on the smaller sizes. Quality continues to be generally good.

Grapes- FOB prices are a little lower this week due to weak demand and good supplies. Quality is better as we get further away from the wind and rain brought on by TS Colin.

Cherries- FOB prices are slightly lower this week. Quality is good.

Weather forecast- Beaufort, SC: Hot with a good chance of storms every day this week. Highs will be in the low to upper 90s with lows in the low to mid 70s.

 

West/Mexico

Rounds- Vine-ripes continue to cross at Baja, McAllen and Nogales. Better quality continues to come out of Baja. Call CA mature green growers are now producing. FOB prices remain steady. Quality is generally average. More supplies should be available next week as all the CA growers should be in full production.

Romas- Supplies continue to be good and FOB prices remain steady from last week. Quality is very good.

Grapes- Supplies continue out of Nogales and Baja. We continue to see a wide range in quality. FOB prices are variable (depending on quality) and generally steady from last week.

Cherries- FOB prices generally steady. Quality is slightly better.

Green Bell Pepper

East- The excessive heat and rains have put an earlier than normal end to the GA crop. The quality of any remaining growers still harvesting is suspect. Our NC crop is in full production. FOB prices are active. Quality out of our NC fields is good.

West- Supplies continue out of Nogales and the desert but those regions are ending. Bakersfield is in production but weather has been extremely hot. FOB prices are generally higher. Quality is variable.

Yellow Squash

East- FOB prices are generally steady but becoming active. Sourcing primarily from SC and NC. Quality is variable.

West- FOB prices are steady to lower this week. Supplies are coming from Santa Maria. Quality is variable. Eastern Washington fields have started producing in a small way.

Green Squash

East- FOB prices are generally steady to higher this week. Quality is generally good. We continue to harvest fields in SC and NC.

West- FOB prices generally steady this week but we continue to see some downward pressure. Supplies are coming from Santa Maria fields with eastern Washington fields starting with light yields. Quality remains variable.

Green Beans- Rain caused this FOB market to double in price compared to last week. Market will remain firm until fields are stripped and NC picks up in volume to support demand. Quality is fair.

Cucumbers- East- FOB prices are slightly higher this week. Quality remains generally good.

West- Product continues to cross at Nogales and Baja. FOB prices remain at low levels. The Nogales growing region will come to the end of its crop in the next 7-10 days. We look for higher prices in the next several weeks heading up to the 4th of July.

Eggplant

East- FOB prices are seeing downward pressure. Quality of eggplant is very good.

West- FOB prices are slightly lower this week as more supplies are available from the Fresno region. The desert region is coming to the end of its crop.

Jalapenos

East- FOB prices are generally higher this week. Quality is good.

West- FOB prices are generally steady. Quality is good.

Market Trends: Week of 13 June, 2016

Tomatoes

East

Rounds- Tropical Storm Colin has brought heavy rains and wind into all the tomato growing regions this week and will keep fields from being harvested until today.  The Central FL region is all but finished.  The growing region now spreads from the panhandle of FL up through the coastal region of SC.  The inland SC region will start up during the last week of this month.  As a result of the rains and the inability to harvest for several days, supplies are short and FOB prices are up $5-$6 on all sizes.  We expect this to be only a temporary spike and FOB prices should fall as more supplies become available.  However, we may not see the rock bottom prices that were prevalent several weeks ago.  Quality right now is still good but we will keep a close eye on it as we get into the fields after the rains and wind as quality and shelf-life often become suspect after such storms.

Romas- FOB prices are slightly higher on the larger sizes and moderately higher on the smaller sizes. Like rounds, quality continues to be very good but we will keep an eye on it after the rains.

Grapes- FOB prices remain generally steady this week with upward pressure.  Quality is very good.

Cherries- FOB prices remain generally steady this week.  Quality is very good.

Weather forecast- Beaufort, SC:  Little chance of rain for the remainder of the week with mostly sunny skies.  Highs will be near 90 and lows in the low to mid 70s.

West/Mexico

Rounds- Vine-ripes continue to cross at Baja, McAllen and Nogales. Quality continues to be better out of Baja than Nogales.  Enough mature greens are now being harvested out of CA to meet more of the western demand.  By next week, most all mature green growers will be in production.  FOB prices remain low but upward pressure is being exerted.  

Romas- Supplies continue to be good and FOB prices remain low but we continue to see some FOB prices above Suspension Agreement minimums, especially for the larger sizes.  Quality is very good.

Grapes- Supplies continue out of Nogales and Baja. We are seeing a wider range in quality.  The better quality fruit is bringing higher FOB prices.

Cherries- FOB prices generally steady with upward pressure.  Quality is only fair. 

Note:  See comments concerning Tropical Storm Colin in the eastern round tomato section above.  Most of these eastern dry vegetable commodities were also in the path of the storm.  The rain and wind will have different effect on quality depending on the sensitivity of the commodity and the geographical range that it is currently being grown.

Green Bell Pepper

East- Pepper is now being grown from south GA to NC. The various regions are supplying enough product to keep FOB prices steady to even lower.  Quality is currently very good but we will see how the storm effects quality.

West- Supplies continue out of Nogales and the desert but the desert region is ending.  All Bakersfield fields should be in production by next week.  FOB prices are generally stable.  Quality is variable.

Yellow Squash

East- FOB prices remain at relatively low levels but we see upward pressure.  Quality is more variable as yellow squash is very susceptible to adverse weather.

West- FOB prices are steady to lower this week. Supplies are coming from Santa Maria.  Quality is variable.

Green Squash

East- FOB prices remain at low levels this week with slight downward pressure.  Quality is generally good.  We continue to harvest fields in GA and eastern NC.

West- FOB prices generally steady this week but we do see some downward pressure. Supplies are coming from Santa Maria fields.  Quality remains variable.

Green Beans East Coast price remains steady no change from last week. Quality still good coming out of Georgia.

Cucumbers- East- FOB prices are generally steady. Quality remains generally good.

West- Product continues to cross at Nogales and Baja.  FOB prices remain at low levels but with downward pressure.

Eggplant

East- FOB prices are seeing downward pressure.  Quality of eggplant is very good but we will see how quality and shelf-life are affected by the storm.

West- FOB prices are slightly lower this week as more supplies are available from the Fresno region.

Jalapenos

East- FOB prices are generally lower this week.  Quality is good.

Market Trends: Week of 06 June, 2016

Tomatoes

East

Rounds- FOB prices remain depressed and continue to move within a narrow range.  Prices are off of the floor from several weeks ago but remain at low levels.  There is slight upward pressure on all sizes. The Quincy growing region (northern FL) continues to produce and SC fields should begin later this week.  Therefore, there should be no gap in supplies so prices should remain depressed and stay within a narrow range unless an unseen weather event disrupts the supply chain.   Quality continues to be very good but we will keep an eye on it due the fact that the growing regions have received quite a bit of rain this past week and we are entering into a typical summer weather pattern where afternoon storms are the norm.

Romas- Strong supplies continue.  FOB prices are steady from last week at or near rock bottom. We are seeing slight downward pressure on the larger sized prices. Quality is excellent.

Grapes- FOB prices remain generally steady this week.  Quality is very good to excellent.

Cherries- FOB prices remain steady this week.  Quality is very good to excellent.

Weather forecast- Quincy:  Partly sunny skies with highs in the 90s and lows in the 60s.  A slight chance of afternoon storms most days.

West/Mexico

Rounds- Vine-ripes continue to cross at Baja, McAllen and Nogales. Quality continues to be better out of Baja than Nogales.  Mature greens continue to be harvested.  FOB prices remain low and even more downward pressure is being exerted.  We do not anticipate any gap in supplies while transitioning between growing regions.

Romas- Supplies continue to be good but for the first time in weeks we are seeing some FOB prices above Suspension Agreement minimums.  Quality is very good.

Grapes- Good supplies out of Nogales and Baja are keeping the FOB prices of grapes at low levels. The quantity and quality of the fruit crossing at Nogales is not as good as that crossing from Baja.  The better quality fruit is bringing higher FOB prices.

Cherries- FOB prices generally steady.  Quality is only fair.

Green Bell Pepper

East- The FL fields are their last legs and southern GA is the major growing region.  The new crop in GA is bringing higher FOB prices.  Quality is very good out of GA.

West- Supplies continue out of Nogales and the desert.  The quality out of the desert is better and bringing higher FOB prices than the product out of Nogales.  We expect to start harvesting the Bakersfield fields later this week.  FOB prices are generally stable.  Quality is variable.

Yellow Squash

East- FOB prices remain at relatively low levels but we continue to see some upward pressure.  Quality is a little more variable.

West- FOB prices for fancy grade are higher this week while the price for choice is generally steady with some downward pressure seen. Quality is variable.

Green Squash

East- FOB prices remain at low levels this week with slight upward pressure for fancy grade.  Quality is generally good.  We have just begun to harvest fields in eastern NC.

West- FOB prices generally steady this week but we do see some upward pressure.  Quality remains variable.

Green Beans-  FOB prices remain steady. Supplies and quality good.

Cucumbers- East- FOB prices are generally steady for the select grade and slightly higher for supers. Quality remains generally good. Continue to mainly sourcing out of south GA.

West- Product continues to cross at Nogales and Baja.  FOB prices remain at low levels but with upward pressure.

Eggplant

East- FOB prices for choice are seeing downward pressure while fancy is steady to higher.  Quality of eggplant is very good.

West- FOB prices are steady this week.  We expect additional supplies to be available by this weekend as the Fresno region begins harvesting.

 Jalapenos

East- FOB prices are generally steady to lower this week.  Quality is very good.