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In its busiest March ever, the Port of Savannah container trade increased by 22.5% or 98,000 TEUs compared to last year. In intermodal cargo, the Port of Savannah set a record of 52,645 containers moved by rail, an increase of 17 percent over the same month last year.
The Georgia Ports Authority handled 534,000 twenty-foot equivalent container units in March, its second monthly record in a row. In February, GPA moved 479,850 TEUs, also a high. Savannah is the fastest-growing container port on the U.S. East and Gulf coasts.
“The growth rate was largely due to two factors: Cargo coming back from the U.S. West Coast after the completion of labor contract negotiations, and customers front-loading orders to avoid new tariffs,” said GPA President and CEO Griff Lynch.
Terminal Fluidity
In intermodal cargo, the Port of Savannah set an all-time record of 52,645 containers moved by rail, an increase of 17 percent over the same month last year. The March performance edged out the previous record of 52,446 rail moves set in January 2021. Similarly, the Appalachian Regional Port in Northwest Georgia handled 3,566 containers in March, an increase of more than 1,100 containers or 47 percent compared to March 2024. It was the highest volume for the ARP since October 2024, when the inland terminal handled 3,666 containers.
Rail cargo remained fluid at the 85-acre Mason Mega Rail Terminal, with an average rail dwell in March of only 22 hours between vessel offload and departing train. Located on the Port of Savannah terminal, Mason Mega Rail handles 42 double-stacked trains per week.
The Port of Savannah’s Garden City Terminal completed 333,571 truck turns in March, with the port setting a weekly gate record of 80,505 truck turns in the week ending March 16.
“From our docks and the container yard to the truck gates and on-terminal rail, our operations teams are achieving strong metrics in cargo flow,” said GPA Chief Operating Officer Ed McCarthy. “That translates into supply chain velocity for our customers who want to exercise more control on order fulfillment speed.”
The average truck turn time in March was 35 minutes for a single move and 55 minutes when a driver delivered an export and picked up an import. Such dual moves accounted for 86 percent of containers moving by truck. Thanks to this terminal efficiency, local truckers can make up to six to eight daily moves to area warehouses.
“On behalf of the Georgia Ports Authority, I would like to thank our employees, Gateway Terminals, the local International Longshoremen’s Association, and the railroads, shipping lines, and motor carriers who are our frontline partners in logistics, serving our customers,” said GPA Board Chairman Kent Fountain. “In Georgia, we are united in our commitment to serving the farms, factories, and businesses that support the economy of our state and nation.”
Stronger Supply Chains in Savannah
To support faster service for ocean carriers, the Port of Savannah has added three new start times for work vessels – 6 a.m., 3 p.m., and 9 p.m. – for a total of eight start times per day. Vessel operations in Savannah are performed 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Additionally, GPA plans to use dock space at Ocean Terminal as a lay berth or staging area for large vessels to be worked at Garden City Terminal. Starting in May, this will allow for a much quicker transition between ships, cutting berth idle time from 12 to 3 hours. “The Ocean Terminal lay berths will launch a new era of flexibility at the Port of Savannah, allowing us to turn vessels faster and more efficiently,” Lynch said.
Faster Customs Inspections
A new $44.5 million U.S. Customs facility at Garden City Terminal will double the size of the agency’s previous location by early June, streamlining on-site inspections for Georgia Ports customers. The project comes after GPA won a federal bid process to continue housing the local Customs operations on-site at Georgia Ports.
“For our customers, the speed and convenience of on-terminal Customs inspections cannot be overstated,” Lynch said. “Our owner-operator model and unmatched terminal space mean containers don’t have to be hauled off-port for Customs – saving cargo owners time and money.”
The new location will also provide 400,000 square feet of parking for outdoor inspections, accommodating Customs and other federal agencies such as the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
Economic Development / Investment Climate
January and February were the most active months local brokers have seen in this market, said GPA Director of Economic and Industrial Development Stacy Watson, “Across manufacturing, warehousing, and third-party logistics, companies are looking at facilities and getting information on what the area has to offer.”
Bountiful shipments of California strawberries are occurring at California Giant Berry Farms as the company shares news of giant volumes of its cornerstone product.
The berry purveyor’s high yields and volumes of excellent quality fruit ensures peak promotable volumes of California strawberries throughout the coming months and ample availability for National Strawberry Month and Memorial Day.
Over the next few weeks, California Giant, based in Watsonville, CA, anticipates peak supplies of exceptional conventional and organic strawberries from its Santa Maria growing region. These berries exhibit ideal size, quality, and flavor. While these peak volumes are expected to gradually taper down, the supply from Santa Maria remained robust through the end of May.
In the Watsonville and Salinas region, recent growing conditions are proving beneficial for the California Giant strawberry crop.
The company anticipates a significant increase in ripening, leading to strong and consistent volumes of premium strawberries from this region from now through the end of July. California Giant customers can look forward to a steady supply of fresh, high-quality strawberries from Watsonville and Salinas throughout the late spring and early summer.
The California strawberry industry is gearing up for a remarkable peak of season spanning from May through June—promising an abundant supply of promotable fruit. This surge in production presents a fantastic opportunity for retailers, foodservice operators, and strawberry lovers alike, with substantial volumes of strawberries for distribution and enjoyment.
“California Giant is committed to supporting our retail and foodservice partners in maximizing the potential of this abundant strawberry season and National Strawberry Month,” shared Tim Youmans, Vice President of Sales at California Giant Berry Farms.
“This is prime strawberry time to run creative, engaging promotions, and our team is ready to provide tailored support to help our customers achieve outstanding results.”
ABOUT CALIFORNIA GIANT BERRY FARMS
At California Giant Berry Farms, the difference is Giant. As the most resilient berry company in the world, California Giant strives to deliver premium berries while nourishing its communities. California Giant’s year-round supply of strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries set the standard for quality and consistency and provides retailers, foodservice, and consumers with the best berry experience. Over four decades, California Giant has evolved into a global family united by a passion for delivering excellence. Quality, consistency and community inspire the mission and values that sustain the California Giant enterprise.
*****
ALLEN LUND COMPANY, TRANSPORTATION BROKERS, LOOKING FOR REEFER CARRIERS: 1-800404-5863.
California walnut growers are experiencing promising early-season conditions that suggest a positive outlook for the 2025 crop, the California Walnut Board (CWB) and California Walnut Commission (CWC) reported. These favorable climate conditions follow three consecutive years of average to above-average rainfall and snowpack in the Sierra Nevada mountains.
The current growing season benefits from adequate surface water and replenished soil profiles, contributing to a strong bloom and early shoot development.
Early walnut varieties began to show bud break in mid-April, with varieties such as Chandler exhibiting healthy shoot growth across California’s main growing regions. The orchards are currently in a critical growth phase, which is essential for nut development throughout the season.
Industry representatives emphasized the significance of the current climate conditions. Davin Norene, a walnut growing specialist and owner of Big Time Farming, noted, “We are predicting a positive outcome for this year’s crop.”
Robert Verloop, executive director and CEO of the California Walnut Board & Commission, mentioned that growers are well-positioned to take advantage of ideal soil moisture and temperatures, which may lead to strong yields and quality for the 2025 crop. This favorable start is viewed as a positive shift after facing challenges in previous seasons, highlighting the resilience of California’s walnut industry.
*****
ALLEN LUND COMPANY, TRANSPORTATION BROKERS, LOOKING FOR REEFER CARRIERS: 1-800-404-5863.
Brighter Bites, a national nonprofit that delivers fresh fruits and vegetables directly to families, has launched a webpage dedicated to its Food is Medicine initiative in partnership with UTHealth Houston.
The page highlights the nonprofit’s work over the past several years, showcasing the connection between healthy food and improved health outcomes, according to a news release.
The Food is Medicine initiative emphasizes the role of nutrition in managing chronic diseases, preventing illness and improving overall well-being. Key features of the new webpage include visuals, personal testimonials, publications and research, and highlights that detail the program’s success and impact, the release said.
“Our goal is to provide all children and their families with a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables while teaching them how to use it to reduce risk of diet-related chronic disease later in life. As part of our Food Is Medicine efforts, we will integrate provisions of fresh produce and nutrition education in the health care system so healthy food can be part of preventing or managing disease and promoting well-being,” said Shreela Sharma, Brighter Bites co-founder and a professor and vice-chair of the Department of Epidemiology at UTHealth Houston School of Public Health.
The Food is Medicine page highlights how Brighter Bites’ work in providing participants with fresh food and nutrition education ultimately supports the management of chronic conditions such as diabetes, hypertension and obesity. By addressing both the root causes of these conditions and the social determinants of health, the initiative has led to measurable improvements in health outcomes for countless individuals in the communities served, the release said.
“We are proud to share our Food is Medicine initiative with our supporters and the broader community,” said Brighter Bites CEO Rich Dachman. “This initiative is at the heart of our mission to build healthier futures for families across the country. For the past several years, we’ve seen firsthand how access to fresh, nutritious food along with nutrition education can make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals and lead to better health outcomes.”
Shipments of domestic raspberries and blackberries has ramped up, and with shipments underway from Mexico. Growers anticipate an overall good season this year despite a slower start than last year.
The USDA reports as of April 19, black berry loadings was at about 6.3 million pounds from California, Georgia and North Carolina, down from about 9.5 million pounds at the same time in 2024. Total 2024 fresh market volume was 62.3 million pounds.
Fresh market shipments of raspberries as of April 19 was 720,000 pounds from California, down from 1.9 million pounds in 2024. Total fresh market volume for 2024 was 63.5 million pounds of conventional and 27.7 million pounds of organic.
North Bay Produce of Traverse City, MI sources blackberries from Mexico year-round, while Georgia started in May, followed by North Carolina in June. Raspberries are shipped from Mexico from October to June and from California from June to October.
California Giant Berry Farms of Watsonville, CA has peak shipments of raspberries from August to November. Peak loadings for blackberries is June through October. Both are sourced primarily from Watsonville and Mexico.
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ALLEN LUND COMPANY, TRANSPORTATION BROKERS, LOOKING FOR REEFER CARRIERS: 1-800-404-5863.
The Mexican Table Grapes Association reports heavy rains hit the Corborca producing area and affected primarily the red grape variety of Flames.
Nearly 2 inches of rain severely impacted the grape-producing area right before peak harvest and will affect early shipments of variety the most. An early damage estimate sees 50 to 60 percent of the crop in that production area lost.
The association reported the Hermosillo area, which also has significant production, did not suffer major damage. Last year, production reached 6 million boxes of Flame grapes across the three regions: Hermosillo, Guaymas, and Caborca. Guaymas is the smallest, Hermosillo had nearly 300,000 boxes, and Caborca produced 2.6 million boxes. This year, they had only harvested about 155,000 boxes as its season was just beginning.
Despite the weather event, about 12 to 15 million boxes of fruit is expected to be shipped in the coming weeks. The initial forecast was for a total of 24 million boxes.
Peru’s agro-export sector continues to expand, with key products such as blueberries, grapes, mangoes, asparagus, cocoa, and coffee driving growth.
In 2024, the country’s agricultural exports surpassed $12 billion, marking a 22% increase from 2023. This growth was fueled by rising international prices for certain products and lower production in some regions of Asia, Europe, and Africa, allowing Peru to capitalize on global demand.
In the framework of the webinar “Peruvian Agroexports 2024,” David Sandoval, CEO of Fluctuante, said that a few decades ago, Peru had a significant challenge: ” We exported to few markets, we had an infrastructure that was not as efficient as the one we have today, and also producers did not have easy access to financing.”
“Peru was not such an important player in the agro-export sector at the international level,” he said, ”but after 24 years, from having a reduced agro-export basket, we went on to export more than 600 products in this sector, and we have been able to conquer markets in different continents.
During this time, in addition to the traditional shipment of products such as coffee and asparagus, Peru has been gaining ground in blueberries, grapes, avocados, mangoes, cocoa, and coffee exports.
Due to the sector’s development, Fluctuante’s CEO stated, “We are pleased that in 2024 we will have surpassed US$12 billion in exports and that this transcends”.
In his opinion, the progress of Peruvian agro-exports does not stop. “For 2025, 202,6, and the following years, I am sure that the sector will continue to grow, but what is fundamental is to sit down and see what these figures are to take measures.”
The present and future look prosperous, but Sandoval said that the sector should not depend on prices. ” We must act strategically on our production and care for our crops and water resources and take care of all other resources such as freight, boxes, and all those that accompany the agro-export sector as a whole.
Consumption
The sector’s development must go hand in hand with increased consumption. In that sense, Sandoval exposed that in 2050, the planet will have about 9.7 billion inhabitants. “We are currently 8 billion people worldwide, and in 25 years, we will have 1.7 billion more people to feed.”
The agro-export industry sees this figure as auspicious—considering that it will go hand in hand with food production—but Sandoval pointed out that the birth rate has begun to fall since 2015, “but we should be aiming to feed the 9.7 billion people we are going to have by 2050.”
But he asked a question: Are we prepared to produce more and save resources or be more efficient in using these resources?
In this regard, he commented that agro exports should focus on three areas: population growth, especially in Asia; the development of the middle class; and data processing.
He indicated that the population would continue to grow, for example, in Asia and countries such as China, India, and Indonesia.
He explained that there is an interesting phenomenon related to the fact that the population that used to be poor is now becoming part of the middle class “and, therefore, has more resources to buy mainly food. That is why they are willing to pay higher prices per kilogram of the products we export.”
Secondly, he pointed out that consumer habits are changing. People increasingly demand fresher, healthy, and environmentally sound products.
The third point concerns the industry’s need for extensive data processing, “and we need to be productive and produce with long-term sustainability.”
Peruvian agro-export markets
The leading destination is the United States, with a 34% share and a 19% variation, with shipments of blueberries, grapes, coffee, and asparagus standing out.
In this sense, Sandoval stated, “We must diversify our markets because we cannot bet a little more than a third of our exports in this sector to only one. We should be betting on gourmet markets, niches, and Asia, which is growing in population.
The Netherlands has a 14% share and a 30% variation, mainly exporting blueberries, avocados and grapes. Then comes Spain, which ships avocado, asparagus, and cocoa. “If we add all of Europe as a whole, we practically also have 30% of our exports to the whole of Europe,” he said.
Asia, which includes China and Hong Kong in the global market, is in fourth position with a 4% share.
Sandoval also highlighted the relevance of markets such as Chile and Mexico. The latter is especially important for Peruvian table grapes.
Regarding Canada, he specified that in 2024, they exported mainly coffee, grapes, and also cocoa.
As the offshore melon season ends, the Westside Produce and Classic Fruit Alliance have announced the kickoff of the domestic melon season in Arizona and California. “The team is gearing up for another great year with first picks out of Arizona expected next week,” both companies said in a release.
Patricio indicated the domestic season started in Yuma, AZ, on May 19th, with stable volumes starting June 1st.
“We are entering year 4 of our alliance together, providing year-round supplies of melons to our valued customers,” said Garrett Patricio, president of Westside Produce. “We have developed synergies as partners and satisfied our goal of being the one-stop shop for melons year-round. We will continue working together to make this goal a reality.”
Then, they will transition to Firebaugh by July 1st, “where we plan to have sufficient acreage and volume to cover contract customers and provide some market opportunities for regular customers. In addition, we have new trial varieties planted in every block in Yuma. We are also being planned out of California to seek the highest quality and flavor available.”
The allied companies said they have also begun preparations for the 2025/26 winter import season, fulfilling their mission of providing melons 52 weeks a year.
The main melon-producing states in the U.S. are California, Texas, Florida, and Arizona.
Pacific Trellis Fruit, home to the Dulcinea brand, introduced a new line of premium melons: Dulcinea Pure Perfection melons.
This collection of high-flavor, high-quality melons is designed to elevate the consumer eating experience with exceptional sweetness, texture and juiciness, according to a news release.
“We are enthusiastic to introduce the Pure Perfection line to our customers,” said Rob Markel, vice president of sales, melon division for Pacific Trellis Fruit. “These melons represent the pinnacle of flavor and quality, meeting the consumer demand for superior-tasting fruit that delivers an unforgettable eating experience.”
The Pure Perfection lineup will launch with three distinct varieties, available June through September:
- Pure Sweetness — An extra sweet cantaloupe-like variety celebrated for its incredibly juicy, soft, melt-in-your-mouth flavor.
- Pure Sunshine — A firm yet juicy honeydew-like melon offering a refreshing, smooth and sweet taste.
- Pure Crunch — An oblong Chinese Hami melon featuring a crisp, refreshing texture with hints of honey and pear.
- Beyond the launch of Pure Perfection melons, Pacific Trellis Fruit continues to offer a diverse and robust melon program. The company remains the innovator of the mini-seedless watermelon, PureHeart, and grows the full-size, seedless Sugar Daddy watermelon, both available in organic options. Other premium offerings include the Tuscan-style extra sweet cantaloupe and the SunnyGold yellow mini-seedless watermelon.
- The company ships its mini-seedless and full-size watermelons year round from growing regions in Mexico, Arizona, California and Idaho, with an offshore program in Guatemala. Seasonal melon programs include the Tuscan-style, extra sweet cantaloupe and the SunnyGold yellow, seedless mini watermelon. The Tuscans will begin shipping from Arizona in May and California in July, whereas the SunnyGold will start in May from Mexico, moving to Arizona in June and California in July. The Dulcinea program will have a steady melon supply throughout the summer months, ripe for promotional opportunities.
*****
ALLEN LUND COMPANY, TRANSPORTATION BROKERS, LOOKING FOR REEFER CARRIERS: 1-800-404-5863.
Optimism abounds in the Northwest as the cherry shipping season has arrived. Favorable weather has growers and shippers ready for a good start, followed by heavy shipments.
Orchard View Cherries of Dalles, OR is looking to a promising season and is expected to kick things off on June 12.
With more than a century of expertise growing cherries on the banks of Oregon’s Columbia River, Orchard View is forecasting excellent quality, consistent large sizing and mature sugars, and a 30% increase in volume over last year.
“This season is progressing beautifully,” shared Brenda Thomas, president of Orchard View. “Our trees came through a mild winter looking strong, and after an exceptional pollination period, they’re now bursting with more cherries than we saw in 2024. We’re thrilled to be entering this season with moderate conditions that are ideal for producing high-quality fruit.”
With promotable volumes beginning the last week of June, ample supply will be ready for July 4 celebrations and continue through the season. The team expects a smooth transition from California to Northwest fruit, ensuring uninterrupted availability for retailers and consumers during the peak summer season.
The company focuses exclusively on cherries, with over 90% of fruit shipped raised on the 3,500 acres it grows on. Each variety — Chelan, Bing, Kordia, Rainier, Lapins, Regina, Skeena and Sweetheart — is carefully matched to its optimal microclimate and elevation for peak performance.
Early Northwest cherry estimates project a larger cherry crop this season, about 24.5 million boxes, which is about 28% higher than last year. This is up from last year’s 19 million boxes.
Some young cherry plantings in the Pacific Northwest have started to produce, which adds to overall supply.
Chelan Fresh Marketing of Chelan, WA expects to have about 10 percent more cherries this season.
CMI Orchards of Wenachee, WA expresses similar optimism.
A few cherries started in the Pacific Northwest around June 1 and it will be late June for British Columbia cherries.
Peak shipments will be the week of June 23 and the week of July 14. There will be ample loadings occurring from mid-June through at least mid-August.
Loadings ahead of the Fourth of July holiday is another time for good volume.
*****
ALLEN LUND COMPANY, TRANSPORTATION BROKERS, LOOKING FOR REEFER CARRIERS: 1-800-404-5863.
Ocean Mist Farms says it is wrapping up a successful spring artichoke season as the company transitions into its Northern California summer season.
“We’ve been very pleased with the excellent quality and sizing this spring crop produced,” Ben Wilson, commodity account manager for Ocean Mist Farms, said in a news release. “The varieties we grow in our northern region have been specially selected or developed to perform well in this unique coastal climate, just as our desert varieties are tailored to thrive in our Southern California winter growing region.”
Ocean Mist Farms said its spring and summer artichokes are grown from perennial plants that perform best in cooler climates and thrive in temperate weather environments, especially coastal areas, with a low risk of frost.
“Artichokes love a Mediterranean climate, which we are fortunate to have here in the Monterey Bay area,” Wilson said. “Cool-climate crops thrive in foggy environments all summer long. Add in the rich, fertile soils of this region, along with sunny but mild days and cool nights, and you’ve got the perfect conditions for growing premium-quality artichokes.”
While the company’s popular purple artichoke season has concluded until next winter, Ocean Mist Farms said it expects steady volumes of globe artichokes over the next couple weeks.
“There is typically a slight dip in supply as we transition into our summer crop,” Wilson said, “but with preplanning, retailers can still take advantage of promotable volumes throughout the summer.”
ALLEN LUND COMPANY, TRANSPORTATION BROKERS, LOOKING FOR REEFER CARRIERS: 1-800-404-5863
In its busiest March ever, the Port of Savannah container trade increased by 22.5% or 98,000 TEUs compared to last year. In intermodal cargo, the Port of Savannah set a record of 52,645 containers moved by rail, an increase of 17 percent over the same month last year.
The Georgia Ports Authority handled 534,000 twenty-foot equivalent container units in March, its second monthly record in a row. In February, GPA moved 479,850 TEUs, also a high. Savannah is the fastest-growing container port on the U.S. East and Gulf coasts.
“The growth rate was largely due to two factors: Cargo coming back from the U.S. West Coast after the completion of labor contract negotiations, and customers front-loading orders to avoid new tariffs,” said GPA President and CEO Griff Lynch.
Terminal Fluidity
In intermodal cargo, the Port of Savannah set an all-time record of 52,645 containers moved by rail, an increase of 17 percent over the same month last year. The March performance edged out the previous record of 52,446 rail moves set in January 2021. Similarly, the Appalachian Regional Port in Northwest Georgia handled 3,566 containers in March, an increase of more than 1,100 containers or 47 percent compared to March 2024. It was the highest volume for the ARP since October 2024, when the inland terminal handled 3,666 containers.
Rail cargo remained fluid at the 85-acre Mason Mega Rail Terminal, with an average rail dwell in March of only 22 hours between vessel offload and departing train. Located on the Port of Savannah terminal, Mason Mega Rail handles 42 double-stacked trains per week.
The Port of Savannah’s Garden City Terminal completed 333,571 truck turns in March, with the port setting a weekly gate record of 80,505 truck turns in the week ending March 16.
“From our docks and the container yard to the truck gates and on-terminal rail, our operations teams are achieving strong metrics in cargo flow,” said GPA Chief Operating Officer Ed McCarthy. “That translates into supply chain velocity for our customers who want to exercise more control on order fulfillment speed.”
The average truck turn time in March was 35 minutes for a single move and 55 minutes when a driver delivered an export and picked up an import. Such dual moves accounted for 86 percent of containers moving by truck. Thanks to this terminal efficiency, local truckers can make up to six to eight daily moves to area warehouses.
“On behalf of the Georgia Ports Authority, I would like to thank our employees, Gateway Terminals, the local International Longshoremen’s Association, and the railroads, shipping lines, and motor carriers who are our frontline partners in logistics, serving our customers,” said GPA Board Chairman Kent Fountain. “In Georgia, we are united in our commitment to serving the farms, factories, and businesses that support the economy of our state and nation.”
Stronger Supply Chains in Savannah
To support faster service for ocean carriers, the Port of Savannah has added three new start times for work vessels – 6 a.m., 3 p.m., and 9 p.m. – for a total of eight start times per day. Vessel operations in Savannah are performed 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Additionally, GPA plans to use dock space at Ocean Terminal as a lay berth or staging area for large vessels to be worked at Garden City Terminal. Starting in May, this will allow for a much quicker transition between ships, cutting berth idle time from 12 to 3 hours. “The Ocean Terminal lay berths will launch a new era of flexibility at the Port of Savannah, allowing us to turn vessels faster and more efficiently,” Lynch said.
Faster Customs Inspections
A new $44.5 million U.S. Customs facility at Garden City Terminal will double the size of the agency’s previous location by early June, streamlining on-site inspections for Georgia Ports customers. The project comes after GPA won a federal bid process to continue housing the local Customs operations on-site at Georgia Ports.
“For our customers, the speed and convenience of on-terminal Customs inspections cannot be overstated,” Lynch said. “Our owner-operator model and unmatched terminal space mean containers don’t have to be hauled off-port for Customs – saving cargo owners time and money.”
The new location will also provide 400,000 square feet of parking for outdoor inspections, accommodating Customs and other federal agencies such as the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
Economic Development / Investment Climate
January and February were the most active months local brokers have seen in this market, said GPA Director of Economic and Industrial Development Stacy Watson, “Across manufacturing, warehousing, and third-party logistics, companies are looking at facilities and getting information on what the area has to offer.”
Bountiful shipments of California strawberries are occurring at California Giant Berry Farms as the company shares news of giant volumes of its cornerstone product.
The berry purveyor’s high yields and volumes of excellent quality fruit ensures peak promotable volumes of California strawberries throughout the coming months and ample availability for National Strawberry Month and Memorial Day.
Over the next few weeks, California Giant, based in Watsonville, CA, anticipates peak supplies of exceptional conventional and organic strawberries from its Santa Maria growing region. These berries exhibit ideal size, quality, and flavor. While these peak volumes are expected to gradually taper down, the supply from Santa Maria remained robust through the end of May.
In the Watsonville and Salinas region, recent growing conditions are proving beneficial for the California Giant strawberry crop.
The company anticipates a significant increase in ripening, leading to strong and consistent volumes of premium strawberries from this region from now through the end of July. California Giant customers can look forward to a steady supply of fresh, high-quality strawberries from Watsonville and Salinas throughout the late spring and early summer.
The California strawberry industry is gearing up for a remarkable peak of season spanning from May through June—promising an abundant supply of promotable fruit. This surge in production presents a fantastic opportunity for retailers, foodservice operators, and strawberry lovers alike, with substantial volumes of strawberries for distribution and enjoyment.
“California Giant is committed to supporting our retail and foodservice partners in maximizing the potential of this abundant strawberry season and National Strawberry Month,” shared Tim Youmans, Vice President of Sales at California Giant Berry Farms.
“This is prime strawberry time to run creative, engaging promotions, and our team is ready to provide tailored support to help our customers achieve outstanding results.”
ABOUT CALIFORNIA GIANT BERRY FARMS
At California Giant Berry Farms, the difference is Giant. As the most resilient berry company in the world, California Giant strives to deliver premium berries while nourishing its communities. California Giant’s year-round supply of strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries set the standard for quality and consistency and provides retailers, foodservice, and consumers with the best berry experience. Over four decades, California Giant has evolved into a global family united by a passion for delivering excellence. Quality, consistency and community inspire the mission and values that sustain the California Giant enterprise.
*****
ALLEN LUND COMPANY, TRANSPORTATION BROKERS, LOOKING FOR REEFER CARRIERS: 1-800404-5863.
California walnut growers are experiencing promising early-season conditions that suggest a positive outlook for the 2025 crop, the California Walnut Board (CWB) and California Walnut Commission (CWC) reported. These favorable climate conditions follow three consecutive years of average to above-average rainfall and snowpack in the Sierra Nevada mountains.
The current growing season benefits from adequate surface water and replenished soil profiles, contributing to a strong bloom and early shoot development.
Early walnut varieties began to show bud break in mid-April, with varieties such as Chandler exhibiting healthy shoot growth across California’s main growing regions. The orchards are currently in a critical growth phase, which is essential for nut development throughout the season.
Industry representatives emphasized the significance of the current climate conditions. Davin Norene, a walnut growing specialist and owner of Big Time Farming, noted, “We are predicting a positive outcome for this year’s crop.”
Robert Verloop, executive director and CEO of the California Walnut Board & Commission, mentioned that growers are well-positioned to take advantage of ideal soil moisture and temperatures, which may lead to strong yields and quality for the 2025 crop. This favorable start is viewed as a positive shift after facing challenges in previous seasons, highlighting the resilience of California’s walnut industry.
*****
ALLEN LUND COMPANY, TRANSPORTATION BROKERS, LOOKING FOR REEFER CARRIERS: 1-800-404-5863.
Brighter Bites, a national nonprofit that delivers fresh fruits and vegetables directly to families, has launched a webpage dedicated to its Food is Medicine initiative in partnership with UTHealth Houston.
The page highlights the nonprofit’s work over the past several years, showcasing the connection between healthy food and improved health outcomes, according to a news release.
The Food is Medicine initiative emphasizes the role of nutrition in managing chronic diseases, preventing illness and improving overall well-being. Key features of the new webpage include visuals, personal testimonials, publications and research, and highlights that detail the program’s success and impact, the release said.
“Our goal is to provide all children and their families with a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables while teaching them how to use it to reduce risk of diet-related chronic disease later in life. As part of our Food Is Medicine efforts, we will integrate provisions of fresh produce and nutrition education in the health care system so healthy food can be part of preventing or managing disease and promoting well-being,” said Shreela Sharma, Brighter Bites co-founder and a professor and vice-chair of the Department of Epidemiology at UTHealth Houston School of Public Health.
The Food is Medicine page highlights how Brighter Bites’ work in providing participants with fresh food and nutrition education ultimately supports the management of chronic conditions such as diabetes, hypertension and obesity. By addressing both the root causes of these conditions and the social determinants of health, the initiative has led to measurable improvements in health outcomes for countless individuals in the communities served, the release said.
“We are proud to share our Food is Medicine initiative with our supporters and the broader community,” said Brighter Bites CEO Rich Dachman. “This initiative is at the heart of our mission to build healthier futures for families across the country. For the past several years, we’ve seen firsthand how access to fresh, nutritious food along with nutrition education can make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals and lead to better health outcomes.”
Shipments of domestic raspberries and blackberries has ramped up, and with shipments underway from Mexico. Growers anticipate an overall good season this year despite a slower start than last year.
The USDA reports as of April 19, black berry loadings was at about 6.3 million pounds from California, Georgia and North Carolina, down from about 9.5 million pounds at the same time in 2024. Total 2024 fresh market volume was 62.3 million pounds.
Fresh market shipments of raspberries as of April 19 was 720,000 pounds from California, down from 1.9 million pounds in 2024. Total fresh market volume for 2024 was 63.5 million pounds of conventional and 27.7 million pounds of organic.
North Bay Produce of Traverse City, MI sources blackberries from Mexico year-round, while Georgia started in May, followed by North Carolina in June. Raspberries are shipped from Mexico from October to June and from California from June to October.
California Giant Berry Farms of Watsonville, CA has peak shipments of raspberries from August to November. Peak loadings for blackberries is June through October. Both are sourced primarily from Watsonville and Mexico.
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The Mexican Table Grapes Association reports heavy rains hit the Corborca producing area and affected primarily the red grape variety of Flames.
Nearly 2 inches of rain severely impacted the grape-producing area right before peak harvest and will affect early shipments of variety the most. An early damage estimate sees 50 to 60 percent of the crop in that production area lost.
The association reported the Hermosillo area, which also has significant production, did not suffer major damage. Last year, production reached 6 million boxes of Flame grapes across the three regions: Hermosillo, Guaymas, and Caborca. Guaymas is the smallest, Hermosillo had nearly 300,000 boxes, and Caborca produced 2.6 million boxes. This year, they had only harvested about 155,000 boxes as its season was just beginning.
Despite the weather event, about 12 to 15 million boxes of fruit is expected to be shipped in the coming weeks. The initial forecast was for a total of 24 million boxes.
Peru’s agro-export sector continues to expand, with key products such as blueberries, grapes, mangoes, asparagus, cocoa, and coffee driving growth.
In 2024, the country’s agricultural exports surpassed $12 billion, marking a 22% increase from 2023. This growth was fueled by rising international prices for certain products and lower production in some regions of Asia, Europe, and Africa, allowing Peru to capitalize on global demand.
In the framework of the webinar “Peruvian Agroexports 2024,” David Sandoval, CEO of Fluctuante, said that a few decades ago, Peru had a significant challenge: ” We exported to few markets, we had an infrastructure that was not as efficient as the one we have today, and also producers did not have easy access to financing.”
“Peru was not such an important player in the agro-export sector at the international level,” he said, ”but after 24 years, from having a reduced agro-export basket, we went on to export more than 600 products in this sector, and we have been able to conquer markets in different continents.
During this time, in addition to the traditional shipment of products such as coffee and asparagus, Peru has been gaining ground in blueberries, grapes, avocados, mangoes, cocoa, and coffee exports.
Due to the sector’s development, Fluctuante’s CEO stated, “We are pleased that in 2024 we will have surpassed US$12 billion in exports and that this transcends”.
In his opinion, the progress of Peruvian agro-exports does not stop. “For 2025, 202,6, and the following years, I am sure that the sector will continue to grow, but what is fundamental is to sit down and see what these figures are to take measures.”
The present and future look prosperous, but Sandoval said that the sector should not depend on prices. ” We must act strategically on our production and care for our crops and water resources and take care of all other resources such as freight, boxes, and all those that accompany the agro-export sector as a whole.
Consumption
The sector’s development must go hand in hand with increased consumption. In that sense, Sandoval exposed that in 2050, the planet will have about 9.7 billion inhabitants. “We are currently 8 billion people worldwide, and in 25 years, we will have 1.7 billion more people to feed.”
The agro-export industry sees this figure as auspicious—considering that it will go hand in hand with food production—but Sandoval pointed out that the birth rate has begun to fall since 2015, “but we should be aiming to feed the 9.7 billion people we are going to have by 2050.”
But he asked a question: Are we prepared to produce more and save resources or be more efficient in using these resources?
In this regard, he commented that agro exports should focus on three areas: population growth, especially in Asia; the development of the middle class; and data processing.
He indicated that the population would continue to grow, for example, in Asia and countries such as China, India, and Indonesia.
He explained that there is an interesting phenomenon related to the fact that the population that used to be poor is now becoming part of the middle class “and, therefore, has more resources to buy mainly food. That is why they are willing to pay higher prices per kilogram of the products we export.”
Secondly, he pointed out that consumer habits are changing. People increasingly demand fresher, healthy, and environmentally sound products.
The third point concerns the industry’s need for extensive data processing, “and we need to be productive and produce with long-term sustainability.”
Peruvian agro-export markets
The leading destination is the United States, with a 34% share and a 19% variation, with shipments of blueberries, grapes, coffee, and asparagus standing out.
In this sense, Sandoval stated, “We must diversify our markets because we cannot bet a little more than a third of our exports in this sector to only one. We should be betting on gourmet markets, niches, and Asia, which is growing in population.
The Netherlands has a 14% share and a 30% variation, mainly exporting blueberries, avocados and grapes. Then comes Spain, which ships avocado, asparagus, and cocoa. “If we add all of Europe as a whole, we practically also have 30% of our exports to the whole of Europe,” he said.
Asia, which includes China and Hong Kong in the global market, is in fourth position with a 4% share.
Sandoval also highlighted the relevance of markets such as Chile and Mexico. The latter is especially important for Peruvian table grapes.
Regarding Canada, he specified that in 2024, they exported mainly coffee, grapes, and also cocoa.
As the offshore melon season ends, the Westside Produce and Classic Fruit Alliance have announced the kickoff of the domestic melon season in Arizona and California. “The team is gearing up for another great year with first picks out of Arizona expected next week,” both companies said in a release.
Patricio indicated the domestic season started in Yuma, AZ, on May 19th, with stable volumes starting June 1st.
“We are entering year 4 of our alliance together, providing year-round supplies of melons to our valued customers,” said Garrett Patricio, president of Westside Produce. “We have developed synergies as partners and satisfied our goal of being the one-stop shop for melons year-round. We will continue working together to make this goal a reality.”
Then, they will transition to Firebaugh by July 1st, “where we plan to have sufficient acreage and volume to cover contract customers and provide some market opportunities for regular customers. In addition, we have new trial varieties planted in every block in Yuma. We are also being planned out of California to seek the highest quality and flavor available.”
The allied companies said they have also begun preparations for the 2025/26 winter import season, fulfilling their mission of providing melons 52 weeks a year.
The main melon-producing states in the U.S. are California, Texas, Florida, and Arizona.
Pacific Trellis Fruit, home to the Dulcinea brand, introduced a new line of premium melons: Dulcinea Pure Perfection melons.
This collection of high-flavor, high-quality melons is designed to elevate the consumer eating experience with exceptional sweetness, texture and juiciness, according to a news release.
“We are enthusiastic to introduce the Pure Perfection line to our customers,” said Rob Markel, vice president of sales, melon division for Pacific Trellis Fruit. “These melons represent the pinnacle of flavor and quality, meeting the consumer demand for superior-tasting fruit that delivers an unforgettable eating experience.”
The Pure Perfection lineup will launch with three distinct varieties, available June through September:
- Pure Sweetness — An extra sweet cantaloupe-like variety celebrated for its incredibly juicy, soft, melt-in-your-mouth flavor.
- Pure Sunshine — A firm yet juicy honeydew-like melon offering a refreshing, smooth and sweet taste.
- Pure Crunch — An oblong Chinese Hami melon featuring a crisp, refreshing texture with hints of honey and pear.
- Beyond the launch of Pure Perfection melons, Pacific Trellis Fruit continues to offer a diverse and robust melon program. The company remains the innovator of the mini-seedless watermelon, PureHeart, and grows the full-size, seedless Sugar Daddy watermelon, both available in organic options. Other premium offerings include the Tuscan-style extra sweet cantaloupe and the SunnyGold yellow mini-seedless watermelon.
- The company ships its mini-seedless and full-size watermelons year round from growing regions in Mexico, Arizona, California and Idaho, with an offshore program in Guatemala. Seasonal melon programs include the Tuscan-style, extra sweet cantaloupe and the SunnyGold yellow, seedless mini watermelon. The Tuscans will begin shipping from Arizona in May and California in July, whereas the SunnyGold will start in May from Mexico, moving to Arizona in June and California in July. The Dulcinea program will have a steady melon supply throughout the summer months, ripe for promotional opportunities.
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Optimism abounds in the Northwest as the cherry shipping season has arrived. Favorable weather has growers and shippers ready for a good start, followed by heavy shipments.
Orchard View Cherries of Dalles, OR is looking to a promising season and is expected to kick things off on June 12.
With more than a century of expertise growing cherries on the banks of Oregon’s Columbia River, Orchard View is forecasting excellent quality, consistent large sizing and mature sugars, and a 30% increase in volume over last year.
“This season is progressing beautifully,” shared Brenda Thomas, president of Orchard View. “Our trees came through a mild winter looking strong, and after an exceptional pollination period, they’re now bursting with more cherries than we saw in 2024. We’re thrilled to be entering this season with moderate conditions that are ideal for producing high-quality fruit.”
With promotable volumes beginning the last week of June, ample supply will be ready for July 4 celebrations and continue through the season. The team expects a smooth transition from California to Northwest fruit, ensuring uninterrupted availability for retailers and consumers during the peak summer season.
The company focuses exclusively on cherries, with over 90% of fruit shipped raised on the 3,500 acres it grows on. Each variety — Chelan, Bing, Kordia, Rainier, Lapins, Regina, Skeena and Sweetheart — is carefully matched to its optimal microclimate and elevation for peak performance.
Early Northwest cherry estimates project a larger cherry crop this season, about 24.5 million boxes, which is about 28% higher than last year. This is up from last year’s 19 million boxes.
Some young cherry plantings in the Pacific Northwest have started to produce, which adds to overall supply.
Chelan Fresh Marketing of Chelan, WA expects to have about 10 percent more cherries this season.
CMI Orchards of Wenachee, WA expresses similar optimism.
A few cherries started in the Pacific Northwest around June 1 and it will be late June for British Columbia cherries.
Peak shipments will be the week of June 23 and the week of July 14. There will be ample loadings occurring from mid-June through at least mid-August.
Loadings ahead of the Fourth of July holiday is another time for good volume.
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Ocean Mist Farms says it is wrapping up a successful spring artichoke season as the company transitions into its Northern California summer season.
“We’ve been very pleased with the excellent quality and sizing this spring crop produced,” Ben Wilson, commodity account manager for Ocean Mist Farms, said in a news release. “The varieties we grow in our northern region have been specially selected or developed to perform well in this unique coastal climate, just as our desert varieties are tailored to thrive in our Southern California winter growing region.”
Ocean Mist Farms said its spring and summer artichokes are grown from perennial plants that perform best in cooler climates and thrive in temperate weather environments, especially coastal areas, with a low risk of frost.
“Artichokes love a Mediterranean climate, which we are fortunate to have here in the Monterey Bay area,” Wilson said. “Cool-climate crops thrive in foggy environments all summer long. Add in the rich, fertile soils of this region, along with sunny but mild days and cool nights, and you’ve got the perfect conditions for growing premium-quality artichokes.”
While the company’s popular purple artichoke season has concluded until next winter, Ocean Mist Farms said it expects steady volumes of globe artichokes over the next couple weeks.
“There is typically a slight dip in supply as we transition into our summer crop,” Wilson said, “but with preplanning, retailers can still take advantage of promotable volumes throughout the summer.”
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