Market update for berries

California strawberry production has been hampered since the beginning of the season by cool temperatures and sporadic winter showers. Fair weather has held over the last week and looks to continue with clear skies in the forecast for both Oxnard and Santa Maria. As the industry begins to shift into full production, Oxnard will be the primary shipping location followed by Baja California. Overall pack-outs are down nearly three million flats in comparison to last year, which has kept FOB pricing significantly higher than we’d normally see during this time period. As the industry prepares for a significant Easter pull, expectations are for growers and shippers to finally hit stride and start shipping meaningful volumes this week. Look for average spot market pricing to open around $14 with FOB’s starting to adjust down as we head into the weekend.

Source: DirectSource