CALIFORNIA - In recent weeks, celery prices have been on the lower end of the spectrum with the amount of supply currently in the market. Now, growers anticipate seeing a stronger market within the next week or two as the Oxnard deal finishes up and transitions to Salinas, CA.

“We are in a transition period right now, moving from Oxnard to Salinas,” said Rick Alcocer, Senior VP of Fresh Sales for Duda Farm Fresh Foods. “There is more celery supply right now than there is existing demand. No doubt that since the beginning of last week through all of this week, you’re still dealing with lingering supplies. When that cleans up, you’ll see a strengthening market.”

As of June 17, 2015, the USDA reported celery prices out of Oxnard as the following:

• $6.75 - $10.50 for 2 dz sizes
• $7.50 - $10.56 for 2 ½ dz sizes
• $7.75 - $11.55 for 3 dz sizes
• $10.50 - $13.75 for 4 dz sizes

Out of Salinas – Watsonville, California, the USDA reported prices as the following, as of June 17, 2015:

• $8.50 - $12.55 for 2 dz sizes
• $8.50 - $12.55 for 2 ½ dz sizes
• $10.45 - $13.50 for 3 dz sizes

“The market is oversupplied and demand is light, so that curtailed the pricing,” Russ Widerburg, Sales Manager for Boskovich Farms, said. “Until Oxnard finishes in a couple weeks you won’t see much change in the market.”

Growers have reported no issues with weather, with cool evenings and an overall mild climate.

“There’s nice growing conditions in Salinas,” continued Alcocer.

It sounds like it’s going to be another productive season out of Salinas. Stay tuned as we continue to report on this transitional phase. 

Duda Farm Fresh Foods

Boskovich Farms