The supply of table grapes from California continues to be strong, even with recent rains that could have potentially impacted the crop. "The rains were spotty and isolated showers here and there but nothing of concern," says Philippe Markarian of Mirabella Farms, adding that this year is seeing strong quality on table grapes.
In terms of varieties being harvested right now, they include Jack's Salute, Autumn Royal, Red Globe, Sweet Globe and some Timco. In shipping, the company is also moving Ivory, Great Greens, Scarlet Royal and Krissy grapes.
Demand could be stronger. "It's feeling lacklustre at this time which I'm surprised to see for September," says Markarian. "The program business is pretty much steady but the spot market has been very slow. We can't put our finger on why."
© Mirabella Farms
Table grapes vs. other items
The company hopes that going into the fourth quarter of the year, that demand will pick up. "We'll have fewer competing items such as cherries and strawberries and stone fruit which means there can be more emphasis on grapes," says Markarian.
All of this means pricing right now is softer than last year at this time on the spot market while program business is similar to last year. "We hope pricing picks up because it needs to with our rising costs, such as labor and raw materials. They've increased for all growers," says Markarian. "We're trying to stay fresh with our inventories and to do so, we're trying to get aggressive on pricing to help create movement."
For more information:
Philippe Markarian
Mirabella Farms
Tel: +1 (559) 237-4495
[email protected]
www.mirabellafarmsinc.com