CALIFORNIA & GEORGIA - With the summer months upon us, blackberries are a rising category on consumers’ shopping lists. As retailers look to satisfy this demand, our most recent dive into the fresh produce pricing landscape revealed slightly lower volumes and elevated pricing in the sector.

The market remains tight, with demand exceeding supply, according to a recent The Source report from PRO*ACT. These conditions are expected to continue through early May. California will ramp up production as temperatures rise in the middle of the month, followed by Georgia a couple of weeks later.

Both the Los Angeles Terminal Market and San Francisco Terminal Market reported a steady to about-steady market with light to very light offerings.

The National Berry Report, generated from data compiled by the USDA Agricultural Marketing Service, reported the following in terms of pricing:

• Imports through South Florida/Tampa: Flats 12 6-oz cups with lids Medium $16-$18 few $20 occasional higher
• Mexico: Flats 12 6-oz cups with lids $16-$18 occasional higher and lower

Overall, California is experiencing good quality on its blackberry crop, with more opportunities expected to open up as the season gains steam over the next couple of months.

AndNowUKnow will continue to report the latest market dynamics and pricing info, so stay tuned for more updates.