Weather Update
High pressure continues out west as a weak cold front approaches the region late Friday into Saturday with a cool down and a chance of showers across Central and Southern California. This system will bring cooler temperatures and a chance of rain to the Southwestern Desert growing regions over the weekend followed by strong winds and cool temperatures early next week. Seasonably warm temperatures and generally dry conditions look to continue across Mexico into next week. A cold front moves into Florida mid-week with light to moderate scattered showers sliding south into the weekend with gradual warming following the system.
Freight Update
California and Arizona trucks continue to be plentiful and look to stay that way for the near future. Washington apple trucks remain steady. Idaho onion and potato trucks both remain a little snug. Potato trucks are available but trying to take advantage of rates. The national average dropped slightly this week at $2.890 per gallon. California prices dropped as well and are currently at $3.774 per gallon. Crude oil remained steady and is currently at $52.98 per barrel.
What You Should Know
Avocado (Mexican): With US inventories depleted and supplies diminishing rapidly, the industry remains in a “Demand Exceeds Supply” situation.
Berries (Blackberries): All mixed berries will continue to be in light supplies through next week.
Berries (Blueberries): All mixed berries will continue to be in light supplies through the end of this week.
Berries (Raspberries): All mixed berries will continue to be in light supplies through next week.
Berries (Strawberries): Increased production should result in lower market pricing across the board in all areas.
Grapes (Green): Good supplies for the next 2-3 weeks then arrivals will slow down.
Grapes (Red): Spot buy opportunities and good volumes are expected for the next 2-3 weeks.
Onions: Markets lower. White onions winding down in Northwest.
Potatoes: Light supplies of larger sizes; in particular 40 count and 50 count.
Potatoes (Colored): Markets remain high; in particular B size and #2 grade reds.
Tomatoes (Western): Supply short. Market elevated. Supply critical.
Transitions And Temperatures
Onions: Mexico crossings into South Texas available.
Grapes (Green): We may experience some challenges in late March to early April as we look toward transitioning into Mexican fruit.
Grapes (Red): We may see some challenges toward the end of March if the weather stays cool in Mexico.
Carrots: The last of the Bakersfield product is being processed this week, and Coachella production begins next week.
A Peak At Peak Seasonss
Stone Fruit: We are approaching peak production over the next 3-4 weeks.
Grapes (Green): We are currently in the peak of Chilean production.
Grapes (Red): We are currently in the peak production period for Chilean harvest
