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Early season exports of mangoes from Mexico have been very light in volume, but that is changing.
In mid-February, Mexican growers had only exported about 1 million pounds of the fruit compared to 1.8 million pounds at the same time a year ago. However, Ciruli Bros. LLC, of Rio Rico, AZ reports the light numbers will not add up to this year’s exports being short.
In fact the opposite is true.
February cold weather and some light rain, which are very unusual this time of the year, have resulted in the slow start to the season.
Volume is now picking up significantly along with larger than normal sizes for the fruit thanks to ample rainfall during the growing season.
Ciruli Bros. now is importing mangoes from Chiapas, Oaxaca and Michoacan.
G-M Produce Sales LLC of Hidalgo, TX, launched its Mexican mango season the week of Feb. 17, and it will continue until September. The company ships all the commercial mango varieties — haden, tommy atkins, kent, keitt and ataulfo.
The Mexican mango harvest for Mission Produce of Oxnard, CA started strong in February and will continue for conventional and organic mangoes until the end of the harvest in September.
Throughout the summer, the company will source honey, haden, tommy atkins, kent and keitt varieties from Mexico.
Good volume on small mangoes is expected by mid-April through June when a lot of packers in the central areas of Jalisco and southern Sinaloa are forecasting a bumper crop.
The southern areas in Michoacán should be in full swing by April and May.
Yellow mangoes will be heavy mid-March through April, with the season out of the southern areas winding down in May.
U.S. Importers are facing a surge in table grape imports from Southern Hemisphere producers, driving prices down and forcing fruit to remain in cold storage for extended periods, impacting quality.
The latest reports indicate while the market is moving, it is not keeping pace with heavy arrivals. Additionally, storage space, packing, and cooling facilities at East Coast ports are nearing full capacity.
While Chilean and Peruvian table grapes are among the biggest concerns, Chilean stone fruit, Mediterranean citrus, and pears from Argentina are also competing for cold storage space.
Peru has had a strong season, with international shipments up 32% year over year through Week 8. Shipments to the U.S. alone are up 48% compared to last season.
Peruvian exporters have increased their focus on the U.S. market, with 53.5% of their table grape tonnage shipped there by the end of Week 8, compared to 47.7% at the same time last season.
Chilean table grape shipments are also up 11.2% through Week 8, with shipments to the U.S. increasing by nearly 15%.
If Chile is to reach its projected 67 million cases this season, an additional 35 million will arrive in the U.S., meaning there is still significant volume left to move.
Meanwhile, South Africa has increased its shipments to the U.S. by 27%, though fewer shipments from the country are expected in the coming weeks.
March and April are expected to be dominated by Chilean arrivals. As importers rush to sell the fruit already in storage, the condition of the remaining grapes will be critical in determining the outcome of the 2024-25 import season.
ATV Farms is a grower-packer-distributor of carrots, onions, parsnips, beets and other root vegetables. The Holland Landing, Ontario based reports it has acquired Sunfresh Farms, an Edmonton, Alberta-based grower-shipper-wholesaler of fruits and vegetables in western Canada.
ATV Farms operates over 7,000 acres of farmland and has a 300,000-square-foot processing and packing facility in Ontario.
ATV Farms, says his family’s business has a strong presence in the eastern part of Canada and the northeast of the U.S., and sought a presence in west to better serve its national retailers.
Sunfresh, which has been around many years, has a something similar in British Columbia to what ATV does in Eastern Canada. So ATV viewed the acquistion as a natural progression to servicing retail accounts internationally and be able to take care of Canadians nationally across the country.
Sunfresh Farms would also help take some pressure of ATV Farms’ eastern facility and allow the company to continue to grow. ATV Farms will sell its products under its Green Earth Organics label as well as its ATV Farms. The Sunfresh label will also continue to be used.
Between ATV Farms’ and its sister company Green Earth Organics, it is the largest conventional root veggie grower in the country as well as the biggest organic distributor. With the acquisition in the west as well as the new facility and adding acreage in the east, it is allowing ATV to be a leader in Canada and be able better service U.S. retail accounts as well as ensuring service for all of its Canadian retailers.
2025 exports of Peruvian blueberries got off to a much slower beginning compared to the same month in 2024.
Exports totaled 23,454 tons worth $110.31 million, which represented a decrease of 15 percent in volume and 41 percent in value, with an average price of 4.70 per kilogram (-31.3 percent).
A primary factor in this drop was the reduction in shipments to China, which went from $15 million in January 2024 to only $2 million in 2025, along with the general drop in the price of the product, according to Fresh Fruit.
Throughout the month, Peruvian blueberries reached 24 countries, of which the U.S. remained the main destination, with a share of 64 percent. 14,721 tons were exported to this market for a value of $70.51 million, with an average price of $4.79 per kilogram. Compared to January 2024, shipments to this country fell by 1 percent in volume and 30 percent in value, with a 29 percent reduction in average cost.
The Netherlands was the second destination with a 21 percent share. Exports to this market reached 5,151 tons for a value of $23.24 million, with an average price of $4.51 per kilogram. In terms of annual variation, the exported volume increased by 33 percent, although the value fell by 12 percent and the average cost decreased by 34 percent.
The United Kingdom closed the podium with 1,791 tons exported, generating a value of $7.34 million. The average price of blueberries in this market was $4.10 per kilogram, which represented a 45 percent drop compared to 2024. However, the volume shipped increased by 37 percent, while the total value of exports to this destination decreased by 25 percent.
On the other hand, in January, almost 70 Peruvian agro-exporters participated, of which the most prominent were Camposol S.A., with a 30 percent share; Hortifrut – Perú S.A.C., with 14 percent; and Blueberries Perú S.A.C., with 10 percent. In 2024, the largest exporters were Camposol (25 percent), Hortifrut (13 percent) and Agrovisión (6 percent). Camposol and Hortifrut increased their market share, while Agrovisión left the podium and was replaced by Blueberries Perú S.A.C.
In terms of markets served, Camposol concentrated its exports in the United States (69 percent) and the Netherlands (27 percent) in 2025, increasing its presence in these markets compared to 2024, when its share in the United States was 53 percent and in the Netherlands 14 percent.
Hortifrut prioritized the United States (67 percent) and the Netherlands (14 percent), while in 2024 these percentages were 50 percent and 17 percent, respectively. Blueberries also had a change in its market focus, with a greater presence in Saudi Arabia (11 percent), while in 2024 it exported mainly to the United States (60 percent) and the Netherlands (14 percent).
Regarding the ports, Terminales Portuarios Euroandinos concentrated 42.4 percent of shipments; followed by DP World, with 27.6 percent; and APM Terminals, with 24.2 percent. The General San Martín – Paracas Port Terminal had a 4 percent share, while the Jorge Chávez International Airport represented 2.3 percent.
Thanks to rising exports, increased domestic demand, better water access, improved berry varieties, and modern agricultural practices, Mexico expects significant growth in its 2025 berry production. Blackberries are forecast to reach 250,000 MT, raspberries 219,000 MT, and strawberries 700,000 MT—a year-over-year increase of 3%, 7%, and 6%, respectively.
Blueberries are the only berry projected to see a decline, with production expected at 73,500 MT, representing a 9% decrease compared to 2024 due to a shortened harvest period.
The Berry Annual Voluntary Report from the USDA highlights that Mexico’s berry exports will continue to surpass domestic consumption in 2025, maintaining its position as the top U.S. fresh berry supplier. According to the report, overall berry exports, including strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, and blueberries, are forecast to grow to 752,000 MT in 2025, up 5% from 716,000 MT in 2024. This growth is driven by strong U.S. demand and the weakened peso relative to the U.S. dollar.
In 2024, Mexicans consumed an estimated 2,400 grams (5.3 pounds) of strawberries per person, followed by 1,200 grams (2.6 pounds) of blackberries, 314 grams (0.7 pounds) of raspberries, and 146 grams (0.3 pounds) of blueberries. Strawberries remain the most consumed berry in the country, underscoring their strong domestic popularity. Mexico leads globally in blackberry production, ranks second for raspberries, and remains in the top 10 for both strawberries and blueberries.
Blackberries: Steady growth
A 3% production increase in 2025 reflects Mexico’s recovery from COVID-19-related slowdowns. Growth is modest compared to raspberries and strawberries due to aging plants and slower adoption of improved varieties. Mexican growers produce about 18 MT of blackberries per hectare, with each hectare supporting around 7,500 plants. Blackberry plants begin producing fruit after five months and can continue for up to 10 years with proper care, yielding three flowerings per year. Michoacán, Jalisco, Colima, Baja California, and Sinaloa account for 99% of national production.
Raspberries: Leading growth at 7%
Raspberry production is forecast to see the highest increase at 7%, driven by improved water management, skilled labor retention, and expanded planting areas. In 2025, the planted area is projected to reach 11,220 hectares. Production has steadily risen since 2019, surpassing 190,000 MT in 2023. Modernized farming practices have allowed producers to achieve higher yields while using less water and fertilizer. The key raspberry-producing states are Jalisco, Michoacán, and Baja California.
Strawberries: Expanding with new techniques
Strawberry production is projected to reach 700,000 MT, a 6% increase from the previous year’s estimate of 661,260 MT. Growers are expanding planting areas and implementing innovative agricultural practices to maximize yields with fewer resources. Strawberry growers have reduced water and fertilizer use while achieving higher yields and are adopting new varieties for improved plant management. Major production areas include Michoacán, Guanajuato, Jalisco, and Baja California, where summer production is most prominent.
Blueberries: Facing a temporary setback
Blueberry production is forecast to decline by 9% due to a delayed harvest start, which shortened the harvesting period. Despite this setback, Mexico remains the sixth-largest blueberry producer globally. Domestic consumption continues to grow as health-conscious consumers increasingly incorporate blueberries into their diets.
Mexico is one of the main blueberry-producing countries, ranking sixth globally. By calendar year 2025, production is projected at 73,500 metric tons (MT), down 9% from 2024.
In the case of exports, the most recent United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) report focused on the fruit, indicates that these would reach 70,000 MT and imports 20,000 MT.
Exports would be 70,000 metric tons, slightly lower than the 74,000 metric tons of the previous year. The United States accounts for 96% of Mexican blueberry exports.
In recent years, the country has expanded its product to new horizons, finding opportunities in the European Union and in emerging markets such as the United Arab Emirates.
The United States is expected to remain Mexican blueberries’ main export market and supplier.
On the other hand, imports are forecast at 20,000 tons, up 7% from 2024, due to increased domestic demand met in part by the United States, Peru, and Canada during periods of lower production in Mexico.
The United States will continue to be Mexico’s main supplier of blueberries, while Peru has begun increasing its blueberry exports to the country.
Texas onion growers and shippers see a strong, successful year as the 2025 harvest has just got underway.
The Texas International Produce Association of Mission, TX. reports a few fields are being harvested while others will start clipping onions by mid-March.
Yields and volume should be similar to last year, with growing conditions being pretty stable> No major pest or disease issues are reported.
Little Bear Produce of Edinburg, TX notes yellow, sweet and red onions are their most popular types of onions. The company specializes in sweet onions.
Southern Rio Grande Valley onions started in mid-February, and the main harvest kicked in about a week later and will continue until mid-April.
Onion volume should be about the same as last year at Little Bear Produce, and early indications were that quality should be good.
Significant changes have occurred at The Onion House LLC in Weslaco, TX.
The company was acquired from previous owner Don Ed Holmes in late 2023, and more recently, there has been installation of equipment to put up 2-, 3- and 5-pound consumer packs and added a new palletizer.
The Onion House sells the same kinds of onions as in the past: Mexican onions during the Mexican season and red, yellow and white onions from Texas when the Mexico deal finishes. Volume should be the same as last year.
The Onion House program to start between mid-to-late March.
Texas onions should continue through May or possibly into June. Mexico and Texas onions are shipped fresh, not out of storage.
Later in the year, The Onion House will ship onions from Colorado and Idaho.
BATAVIA, IL — ALDI, the fastest-growing grocer in the U.S., today announced recently its plan to open more than 225 new store locations in 2025 as part of the next phase of its five-year national growth strategy.
This is the most stores ALDI will open in one year in its nearly 50-year U.S. history as more shoppers than ever look to save up to 36% on an average shopping trip.*
The new stores will open through a combination of organic growth and converting select Winn-Dixie and Harveys Supermarket stores to the ALDI format. In total, ALDI will convert approximately 220 Southeastern Grocers locations to the ALDI format through 2027.
As part of the strategy, ALDI has closed a transaction to divest approximately 170 Winn-Dixie and Harveys Supermarket stores that are not part of the ALDI conversion plan to a consortium including C&S Wholesale Grocers, Southeastern Grocers senior leadership and private investors. This transaction allows ALDI to create a focused conversion portfolio in the Southeast as it progresses its expansion plans across the country.
“When we announced our acquisition of Southeastern Grocers, we shared that we intended for a meaningful number of Winn-Dixie and Harveys Supermarkets to continue to operate, and we’re delivering on that promise while also supporting ALDI growth. Over the last year, we’ve seen firsthand how C&S Wholesale Grocers, Southeastern Grocers and their teams have continued to deliver great quality, service and value to their customers, and we are confident they will lead the company successfully into its next chapter,” said Jason Hart, CEO, ALDI.
“Converting the remaining locations to the ALDI format is critically important to our nationwide commitment to help shoppers fill their carts with quality groceries for less. As shoppers continue to feel sticker shock at the checkout, the value ALDI delivers can’t be beat,” added Hart.
Grand openings for the first several converted Southeastern Grocers stores are underway, with approximately 100 converted locations re-opening as ALDI stores by the end of 2025.
In addition to its Southeast expansion, ALDI will add to its established footprint in the Northeast and Midwest regions, grow its presence in the West with more stores in Southern California and Arizona, and enter new communities, like Las Vegas. As ALDI grows its footprint to serve more customers, it also brings its employee-focused culture and industry-leading pay and benefits to more communities.
“ALDI continues to see more shoppers come through our doors as they experience our quicker, easier and more affordable shopping experience firsthand,” said Hart. “With our expansion across the country, ALDI is earning the trust of more shoppers in more communities than ever before, bringing us closer to becoming America’s first stop for groceries.”
Last year, ALDI opened nearly 120 stores, bringing its total store count to over 2,400 and solidifying its position as the third-largest grocery chain by store count in the U.S. More than one-in-four American households shop at ALDI for its affordable, quality groceries, which is double the amount from just six years ago. With shoppers saving money with every trip, more shoppers are flocking to ALDI than ever before.
With the lowest prices of any national grocery store* ALDI is a welcome solution to inflation as it enters more communities nationwide. In 2024, 19 million new shoppers were drawn to its quality, affordable groceries, quicker, easier shopping experience, shelves stocked with only the best products at even better prices, and ultra-popular, on-trend ALDI Finds. Customers can conveniently shop in-store, through curbside pickup, or via delivery to get the essentials they need how, when and where they need them.
Deutsche Bank served as financial advisor to ALDI. Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP was transaction counsel to ALDI and Kayne Law Group served as co- real estate counsel to ALDI.
About ALDI U.S.
ALDI is America’s fastest-growing retailer, serving millions of customers across the country each month. Our disciplined approach to operating with simplicity and efficiency gives our customers great products at the lowest prices of any national grocery store.* ALDI strives to have a positive impact on its customers, employees and communities by being socially and environmentally responsible, earning ALDI recognition as a leading grocer in sustainability.** In addition to helping protect the planet, ALDI helps customers save time and money through convenient shopping options via in-store, curbside pickup or delivery at shop.aldi.us. For more information about ALDI, visit aldi.us.
California Giant Berry Farms of Watsonville, CA has shared the availability of its GIANT Blueberries. These large (20mm+) and flavorful berries are now available in a vibrant new label design, selected by California Giant’s consumer audience.
This new, modern label celebrates a product California Giant has expanded on since the opening of its state-of-the-art blueberry pack house in Santa Maria, CA.
California Giant’s GIANT Blueberries are available in good volume from March through August, with peak availability in April and May. Sourcing begins in Mexico, shifts to California, and then moves to the Pacific Northwest as the growing season progresses, to ensure a consistent supply of these flavorful berries throughout the spring and summer.
The GIANT Blueberries, boasting impressive size and superior flavor, are sorted for color, firmness, size, and other quality indicators using a state-of-the-art Unitec sorting line at the Santa Maria facility. This ensures only the highest-quality berries make it into each clamshell. The Santa Maria pack house serves as a central hub for California Giant’s growers and outside suppliers, offering co-packing assistance and reinforcing the company’s commitment to supporting its industry partners.
Jumbo blueberries are a rapidly growing segment of the berry category, reflecting evolving consumer preferences. Nielsen data shows double-digit growth in both dollar sales and pounds compared to the previous year, with jumbo blueberries also increasing their dollar share of the total blueberry category. Notably, the top three jumbo blueberry items accounted for 50% of total dollar sales, and the top ten items made up an impressive 90%, highlighting the strong consumer demand for premium jumbo offerings.
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.
A study from Western New England University (WNE) suggests that regularly eating grapes can positively impact muscle gene expression, with particularly strong effects in females.
The research, recently published in the journal Foods, found that daily grape consumption alters muscle gene expression in ways that promote lean muscle mass and reduce markers of muscle degeneration.
“This study provides compelling evidence that grapes have the potential to enhance muscle health at the genetic level,” said Dr. John Pezzuto, senior investigator of the study and professor and dean of the WNE College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences.
Alterations in muscle gene expression resulted in male and female muscle characteristics becoming more similar on a metabolic level.
The Role of Nutrigenomics
Nutrigenomics, the study of how diet influences gene expression, played a central role in this research. Grapes, rich in natural compounds called phytochemicals, have been shown to impact various aspects of health, from heart and kidney function to skin and eye health.
In this study, researchers examined the effects of consuming two servings of grapes per day on muscle gene expression patterns. The results demonstrated that grape consumption altered over 20,000 genes, significantly influencing muscle metabolism.
The study also revealed that genes associated with good muscle health—such as those linked to lean muscle mass—were elevated, while genes tied to muscle deterioration were suppressed. These findings suggest that dietary interventions, like adding grapes to one’s diet, could serve as a complementary approach to traditional muscle maintenance strategies, such as exercise and protein-rich nutrition.
Future Research Directions
The WNE research team aims to further investigate the mechanisms behind these genetic changes and determine how quickly they occur in human subjects. As the field of nutrigenomics continues to evolve, this study opens the door for new dietary approaches to muscle health across different age groups.
Early season exports of mangoes from Mexico have been very light in volume, but that is changing.
In mid-February, Mexican growers had only exported about 1 million pounds of the fruit compared to 1.8 million pounds at the same time a year ago. However, Ciruli Bros. LLC, of Rio Rico, AZ reports the light numbers will not add up to this year’s exports being short.
In fact the opposite is true.
February cold weather and some light rain, which are very unusual this time of the year, have resulted in the slow start to the season.
Volume is now picking up significantly along with larger than normal sizes for the fruit thanks to ample rainfall during the growing season.
Ciruli Bros. now is importing mangoes from Chiapas, Oaxaca and Michoacan.
G-M Produce Sales LLC of Hidalgo, TX, launched its Mexican mango season the week of Feb. 17, and it will continue until September. The company ships all the commercial mango varieties — haden, tommy atkins, kent, keitt and ataulfo.
The Mexican mango harvest for Mission Produce of Oxnard, CA started strong in February and will continue for conventional and organic mangoes until the end of the harvest in September.
Throughout the summer, the company will source honey, haden, tommy atkins, kent and keitt varieties from Mexico.
Good volume on small mangoes is expected by mid-April through June when a lot of packers in the central areas of Jalisco and southern Sinaloa are forecasting a bumper crop.
The southern areas in Michoacán should be in full swing by April and May.
Yellow mangoes will be heavy mid-March through April, with the season out of the southern areas winding down in May.
U.S. Importers are facing a surge in table grape imports from Southern Hemisphere producers, driving prices down and forcing fruit to remain in cold storage for extended periods, impacting quality.
The latest reports indicate while the market is moving, it is not keeping pace with heavy arrivals. Additionally, storage space, packing, and cooling facilities at East Coast ports are nearing full capacity.
While Chilean and Peruvian table grapes are among the biggest concerns, Chilean stone fruit, Mediterranean citrus, and pears from Argentina are also competing for cold storage space.
Peru has had a strong season, with international shipments up 32% year over year through Week 8. Shipments to the U.S. alone are up 48% compared to last season.
Peruvian exporters have increased their focus on the U.S. market, with 53.5% of their table grape tonnage shipped there by the end of Week 8, compared to 47.7% at the same time last season.
Chilean table grape shipments are also up 11.2% through Week 8, with shipments to the U.S. increasing by nearly 15%.
If Chile is to reach its projected 67 million cases this season, an additional 35 million will arrive in the U.S., meaning there is still significant volume left to move.
Meanwhile, South Africa has increased its shipments to the U.S. by 27%, though fewer shipments from the country are expected in the coming weeks.
March and April are expected to be dominated by Chilean arrivals. As importers rush to sell the fruit already in storage, the condition of the remaining grapes will be critical in determining the outcome of the 2024-25 import season.
ATV Farms is a grower-packer-distributor of carrots, onions, parsnips, beets and other root vegetables. The Holland Landing, Ontario based reports it has acquired Sunfresh Farms, an Edmonton, Alberta-based grower-shipper-wholesaler of fruits and vegetables in western Canada.
ATV Farms operates over 7,000 acres of farmland and has a 300,000-square-foot processing and packing facility in Ontario.
ATV Farms, says his family’s business has a strong presence in the eastern part of Canada and the northeast of the U.S., and sought a presence in west to better serve its national retailers.
Sunfresh, which has been around many years, has a something similar in British Columbia to what ATV does in Eastern Canada. So ATV viewed the acquistion as a natural progression to servicing retail accounts internationally and be able to take care of Canadians nationally across the country.
Sunfresh Farms would also help take some pressure of ATV Farms’ eastern facility and allow the company to continue to grow. ATV Farms will sell its products under its Green Earth Organics label as well as its ATV Farms. The Sunfresh label will also continue to be used.
Between ATV Farms’ and its sister company Green Earth Organics, it is the largest conventional root veggie grower in the country as well as the biggest organic distributor. With the acquisition in the west as well as the new facility and adding acreage in the east, it is allowing ATV to be a leader in Canada and be able better service U.S. retail accounts as well as ensuring service for all of its Canadian retailers.
2025 exports of Peruvian blueberries got off to a much slower beginning compared to the same month in 2024.
Exports totaled 23,454 tons worth $110.31 million, which represented a decrease of 15 percent in volume and 41 percent in value, with an average price of 4.70 per kilogram (-31.3 percent).
A primary factor in this drop was the reduction in shipments to China, which went from $15 million in January 2024 to only $2 million in 2025, along with the general drop in the price of the product, according to Fresh Fruit.
Throughout the month, Peruvian blueberries reached 24 countries, of which the U.S. remained the main destination, with a share of 64 percent. 14,721 tons were exported to this market for a value of $70.51 million, with an average price of $4.79 per kilogram. Compared to January 2024, shipments to this country fell by 1 percent in volume and 30 percent in value, with a 29 percent reduction in average cost.
The Netherlands was the second destination with a 21 percent share. Exports to this market reached 5,151 tons for a value of $23.24 million, with an average price of $4.51 per kilogram. In terms of annual variation, the exported volume increased by 33 percent, although the value fell by 12 percent and the average cost decreased by 34 percent.
The United Kingdom closed the podium with 1,791 tons exported, generating a value of $7.34 million. The average price of blueberries in this market was $4.10 per kilogram, which represented a 45 percent drop compared to 2024. However, the volume shipped increased by 37 percent, while the total value of exports to this destination decreased by 25 percent.
On the other hand, in January, almost 70 Peruvian agro-exporters participated, of which the most prominent were Camposol S.A., with a 30 percent share; Hortifrut – Perú S.A.C., with 14 percent; and Blueberries Perú S.A.C., with 10 percent. In 2024, the largest exporters were Camposol (25 percent), Hortifrut (13 percent) and Agrovisión (6 percent). Camposol and Hortifrut increased their market share, while Agrovisión left the podium and was replaced by Blueberries Perú S.A.C.
In terms of markets served, Camposol concentrated its exports in the United States (69 percent) and the Netherlands (27 percent) in 2025, increasing its presence in these markets compared to 2024, when its share in the United States was 53 percent and in the Netherlands 14 percent.
Hortifrut prioritized the United States (67 percent) and the Netherlands (14 percent), while in 2024 these percentages were 50 percent and 17 percent, respectively. Blueberries also had a change in its market focus, with a greater presence in Saudi Arabia (11 percent), while in 2024 it exported mainly to the United States (60 percent) and the Netherlands (14 percent).
Regarding the ports, Terminales Portuarios Euroandinos concentrated 42.4 percent of shipments; followed by DP World, with 27.6 percent; and APM Terminals, with 24.2 percent. The General San Martín – Paracas Port Terminal had a 4 percent share, while the Jorge Chávez International Airport represented 2.3 percent.
Thanks to rising exports, increased domestic demand, better water access, improved berry varieties, and modern agricultural practices, Mexico expects significant growth in its 2025 berry production. Blackberries are forecast to reach 250,000 MT, raspberries 219,000 MT, and strawberries 700,000 MT—a year-over-year increase of 3%, 7%, and 6%, respectively.
Blueberries are the only berry projected to see a decline, with production expected at 73,500 MT, representing a 9% decrease compared to 2024 due to a shortened harvest period.
The Berry Annual Voluntary Report from the USDA highlights that Mexico’s berry exports will continue to surpass domestic consumption in 2025, maintaining its position as the top U.S. fresh berry supplier. According to the report, overall berry exports, including strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, and blueberries, are forecast to grow to 752,000 MT in 2025, up 5% from 716,000 MT in 2024. This growth is driven by strong U.S. demand and the weakened peso relative to the U.S. dollar.
In 2024, Mexicans consumed an estimated 2,400 grams (5.3 pounds) of strawberries per person, followed by 1,200 grams (2.6 pounds) of blackberries, 314 grams (0.7 pounds) of raspberries, and 146 grams (0.3 pounds) of blueberries. Strawberries remain the most consumed berry in the country, underscoring their strong domestic popularity. Mexico leads globally in blackberry production, ranks second for raspberries, and remains in the top 10 for both strawberries and blueberries.
Blackberries: Steady growth
A 3% production increase in 2025 reflects Mexico’s recovery from COVID-19-related slowdowns. Growth is modest compared to raspberries and strawberries due to aging plants and slower adoption of improved varieties. Mexican growers produce about 18 MT of blackberries per hectare, with each hectare supporting around 7,500 plants. Blackberry plants begin producing fruit after five months and can continue for up to 10 years with proper care, yielding three flowerings per year. Michoacán, Jalisco, Colima, Baja California, and Sinaloa account for 99% of national production.
Raspberries: Leading growth at 7%
Raspberry production is forecast to see the highest increase at 7%, driven by improved water management, skilled labor retention, and expanded planting areas. In 2025, the planted area is projected to reach 11,220 hectares. Production has steadily risen since 2019, surpassing 190,000 MT in 2023. Modernized farming practices have allowed producers to achieve higher yields while using less water and fertilizer. The key raspberry-producing states are Jalisco, Michoacán, and Baja California.
Strawberries: Expanding with new techniques
Strawberry production is projected to reach 700,000 MT, a 6% increase from the previous year’s estimate of 661,260 MT. Growers are expanding planting areas and implementing innovative agricultural practices to maximize yields with fewer resources. Strawberry growers have reduced water and fertilizer use while achieving higher yields and are adopting new varieties for improved plant management. Major production areas include Michoacán, Guanajuato, Jalisco, and Baja California, where summer production is most prominent.
Blueberries: Facing a temporary setback
Blueberry production is forecast to decline by 9% due to a delayed harvest start, which shortened the harvesting period. Despite this setback, Mexico remains the sixth-largest blueberry producer globally. Domestic consumption continues to grow as health-conscious consumers increasingly incorporate blueberries into their diets.
Mexico is one of the main blueberry-producing countries, ranking sixth globally. By calendar year 2025, production is projected at 73,500 metric tons (MT), down 9% from 2024.
In the case of exports, the most recent United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) report focused on the fruit, indicates that these would reach 70,000 MT and imports 20,000 MT.
Exports would be 70,000 metric tons, slightly lower than the 74,000 metric tons of the previous year. The United States accounts for 96% of Mexican blueberry exports.
In recent years, the country has expanded its product to new horizons, finding opportunities in the European Union and in emerging markets such as the United Arab Emirates.
The United States is expected to remain Mexican blueberries’ main export market and supplier.
On the other hand, imports are forecast at 20,000 tons, up 7% from 2024, due to increased domestic demand met in part by the United States, Peru, and Canada during periods of lower production in Mexico.
The United States will continue to be Mexico’s main supplier of blueberries, while Peru has begun increasing its blueberry exports to the country.
Texas onion growers and shippers see a strong, successful year as the 2025 harvest has just got underway.
The Texas International Produce Association of Mission, TX. reports a few fields are being harvested while others will start clipping onions by mid-March.
Yields and volume should be similar to last year, with growing conditions being pretty stable> No major pest or disease issues are reported.
Little Bear Produce of Edinburg, TX notes yellow, sweet and red onions are their most popular types of onions. The company specializes in sweet onions.
Southern Rio Grande Valley onions started in mid-February, and the main harvest kicked in about a week later and will continue until mid-April.
Onion volume should be about the same as last year at Little Bear Produce, and early indications were that quality should be good.
Significant changes have occurred at The Onion House LLC in Weslaco, TX.
The company was acquired from previous owner Don Ed Holmes in late 2023, and more recently, there has been installation of equipment to put up 2-, 3- and 5-pound consumer packs and added a new palletizer.
The Onion House sells the same kinds of onions as in the past: Mexican onions during the Mexican season and red, yellow and white onions from Texas when the Mexico deal finishes. Volume should be the same as last year.
The Onion House program to start between mid-to-late March.
Texas onions should continue through May or possibly into June. Mexico and Texas onions are shipped fresh, not out of storage.
Later in the year, The Onion House will ship onions from Colorado and Idaho.
BATAVIA, IL — ALDI, the fastest-growing grocer in the U.S., today announced recently its plan to open more than 225 new store locations in 2025 as part of the next phase of its five-year national growth strategy.
This is the most stores ALDI will open in one year in its nearly 50-year U.S. history as more shoppers than ever look to save up to 36% on an average shopping trip.*
The new stores will open through a combination of organic growth and converting select Winn-Dixie and Harveys Supermarket stores to the ALDI format. In total, ALDI will convert approximately 220 Southeastern Grocers locations to the ALDI format through 2027.
As part of the strategy, ALDI has closed a transaction to divest approximately 170 Winn-Dixie and Harveys Supermarket stores that are not part of the ALDI conversion plan to a consortium including C&S Wholesale Grocers, Southeastern Grocers senior leadership and private investors. This transaction allows ALDI to create a focused conversion portfolio in the Southeast as it progresses its expansion plans across the country.
“When we announced our acquisition of Southeastern Grocers, we shared that we intended for a meaningful number of Winn-Dixie and Harveys Supermarkets to continue to operate, and we’re delivering on that promise while also supporting ALDI growth. Over the last year, we’ve seen firsthand how C&S Wholesale Grocers, Southeastern Grocers and their teams have continued to deliver great quality, service and value to their customers, and we are confident they will lead the company successfully into its next chapter,” said Jason Hart, CEO, ALDI.
“Converting the remaining locations to the ALDI format is critically important to our nationwide commitment to help shoppers fill their carts with quality groceries for less. As shoppers continue to feel sticker shock at the checkout, the value ALDI delivers can’t be beat,” added Hart.
Grand openings for the first several converted Southeastern Grocers stores are underway, with approximately 100 converted locations re-opening as ALDI stores by the end of 2025.
In addition to its Southeast expansion, ALDI will add to its established footprint in the Northeast and Midwest regions, grow its presence in the West with more stores in Southern California and Arizona, and enter new communities, like Las Vegas. As ALDI grows its footprint to serve more customers, it also brings its employee-focused culture and industry-leading pay and benefits to more communities.
“ALDI continues to see more shoppers come through our doors as they experience our quicker, easier and more affordable shopping experience firsthand,” said Hart. “With our expansion across the country, ALDI is earning the trust of more shoppers in more communities than ever before, bringing us closer to becoming America’s first stop for groceries.”
Last year, ALDI opened nearly 120 stores, bringing its total store count to over 2,400 and solidifying its position as the third-largest grocery chain by store count in the U.S. More than one-in-four American households shop at ALDI for its affordable, quality groceries, which is double the amount from just six years ago. With shoppers saving money with every trip, more shoppers are flocking to ALDI than ever before.
With the lowest prices of any national grocery store* ALDI is a welcome solution to inflation as it enters more communities nationwide. In 2024, 19 million new shoppers were drawn to its quality, affordable groceries, quicker, easier shopping experience, shelves stocked with only the best products at even better prices, and ultra-popular, on-trend ALDI Finds. Customers can conveniently shop in-store, through curbside pickup, or via delivery to get the essentials they need how, when and where they need them.
Deutsche Bank served as financial advisor to ALDI. Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP was transaction counsel to ALDI and Kayne Law Group served as co- real estate counsel to ALDI.
About ALDI U.S.
ALDI is America’s fastest-growing retailer, serving millions of customers across the country each month. Our disciplined approach to operating with simplicity and efficiency gives our customers great products at the lowest prices of any national grocery store.* ALDI strives to have a positive impact on its customers, employees and communities by being socially and environmentally responsible, earning ALDI recognition as a leading grocer in sustainability.** In addition to helping protect the planet, ALDI helps customers save time and money through convenient shopping options via in-store, curbside pickup or delivery at shop.aldi.us. For more information about ALDI, visit aldi.us.
California Giant Berry Farms of Watsonville, CA has shared the availability of its GIANT Blueberries. These large (20mm+) and flavorful berries are now available in a vibrant new label design, selected by California Giant’s consumer audience.
This new, modern label celebrates a product California Giant has expanded on since the opening of its state-of-the-art blueberry pack house in Santa Maria, CA.
California Giant’s GIANT Blueberries are available in good volume from March through August, with peak availability in April and May. Sourcing begins in Mexico, shifts to California, and then moves to the Pacific Northwest as the growing season progresses, to ensure a consistent supply of these flavorful berries throughout the spring and summer.
The GIANT Blueberries, boasting impressive size and superior flavor, are sorted for color, firmness, size, and other quality indicators using a state-of-the-art Unitec sorting line at the Santa Maria facility. This ensures only the highest-quality berries make it into each clamshell. The Santa Maria pack house serves as a central hub for California Giant’s growers and outside suppliers, offering co-packing assistance and reinforcing the company’s commitment to supporting its industry partners.
Jumbo blueberries are a rapidly growing segment of the berry category, reflecting evolving consumer preferences. Nielsen data shows double-digit growth in both dollar sales and pounds compared to the previous year, with jumbo blueberries also increasing their dollar share of the total blueberry category. Notably, the top three jumbo blueberry items accounted for 50% of total dollar sales, and the top ten items made up an impressive 90%, highlighting the strong consumer demand for premium jumbo offerings.
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.
A study from Western New England University (WNE) suggests that regularly eating grapes can positively impact muscle gene expression, with particularly strong effects in females.
The research, recently published in the journal Foods, found that daily grape consumption alters muscle gene expression in ways that promote lean muscle mass and reduce markers of muscle degeneration.
“This study provides compelling evidence that grapes have the potential to enhance muscle health at the genetic level,” said Dr. John Pezzuto, senior investigator of the study and professor and dean of the WNE College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences.
Alterations in muscle gene expression resulted in male and female muscle characteristics becoming more similar on a metabolic level.
The Role of Nutrigenomics
Nutrigenomics, the study of how diet influences gene expression, played a central role in this research. Grapes, rich in natural compounds called phytochemicals, have been shown to impact various aspects of health, from heart and kidney function to skin and eye health.
In this study, researchers examined the effects of consuming two servings of grapes per day on muscle gene expression patterns. The results demonstrated that grape consumption altered over 20,000 genes, significantly influencing muscle metabolism.
The study also revealed that genes associated with good muscle health—such as those linked to lean muscle mass—were elevated, while genes tied to muscle deterioration were suppressed. These findings suggest that dietary interventions, like adding grapes to one’s diet, could serve as a complementary approach to traditional muscle maintenance strategies, such as exercise and protein-rich nutrition.
Future Research Directions
The WNE research team aims to further investigate the mechanisms behind these genetic changes and determine how quickly they occur in human subjects. As the field of nutrigenomics continues to evolve, this study opens the door for new dietary approaches to muscle health across different age groups.