Posts Tagged “feature”
Pacific Trellis Fruit Company, owner of the Dulcinea Brand, entered a long-term joint venture agreement with Desert Ghost, a Hermosillo, Sonora, Mexico, farming entity owned by the Carrillo family of Caborca.
Luis Carrillo also owns UVEX, a large table grape operation located in Caborca. Several years ago, Desert Ghost acquired a ranch in Hermosillo known as Campo La Colorada. Desert Ghost invested significant capital in developing the land by installing irrigation systems, building cold storage and packing house facilities, offices and a state-of-the-art pack line for all table grape pack styles, including all types of clam shells, according to a news release.
The focus in this ranch has always been on new proprietary varieties that can supply the best quality fruit in the early part of the season. New plantings of flames, Ivory, Krissy, Midnight Beauty, Ruby Rush and Autumncrisp soon followed, the release said.
“Over the past six years, we have evaluated many varieties and identified the ones that are better suited for our region. In this second phase of our project, we can focus on those cultivars that have proven to perform great,” Carrillo said.
When the joint venture with PTF was signed earlier this year, Desert Ghost embarked on a massive project to remove the Ivory and Krissy blocks and plant back new vines with Early Sweet, Ruby Rush and Applause varieties. The rest of the prepared open ground has also been planted with new blocks of Honey Pop, more Ruby Rush and Early Sweet, the release said.
“We have a 14-year relationship with Pacific Trellis, and we are thrilled to go into this new phase of the project with a company that shares our commitment to quality, and we look forward to continuing to expand our program,“ Carillo said.
“PTF has had a long-standing relationship with the Carrillo family, and this opportunity provided us with a chance to lay a cornerstone in our Mexican table grape program with an aligned strategic partner,” said Earl McMenamin, senior sales executive and category manager for Mexico and California Grapes. “We look forward to an exciting future with these new additions to our table grape portfolio.”
With an existing Mexican grape program that sources 1.5 million boxes from all districts, including Guaymas, Hermosillo and Caborca, this joint venture is a significant enhancement that will bring PTF’s total program close to two million boxes in three years, the release said, adding that the Mexican grape program, along with their large South American and California programs, allows PTF to supply customers with premium table grapes 365 days a year.
By Iyer Amruthur ALC San Antonio
You weren’t born yet; there’s no record you can follow back, the digital and paper trail buried deeper than your local fiber cables, allowing you to read this periodical! I’m, of course, talking about 1200 BCE, when historians theorize that the first ocean trade route began. Thankfully, dusty naval logs and old boxes of hardtack are not what we’re here for. We’re here to talk about something pretty topical in today’s economic world: tariffs. A tariff is critical to trade, as it is a tax or duty paid upon importing a certain good or product class from another country. They can range from small to cripplingly large in terms of fees. They’re almost as old as trade, but not quite. The United States issued its first tariff back on July 4, 1789, 286 years ago. It levied a charge per ton of goods brought into the USA towards the selling party, such as wine, beer, and coffee.
Fast-forwarding to modern times, tariffs are a common and omnipresent part of trade. Discussions about tariff policy have evolved into a raucous, entropic, and engrossing conversation. The effects are wide-ranging and sweeping. As you can imagine, the cost of goods and services has wild implications, almost a butterfly effect on a country’s economy and even its partners. Let’s take the example of a simple tariff on imported aluminum and steel. Every car frame, CNC-turned bolt, or screw, down to the cost of buying a new truck and trailer for transport, is affected. When the cost of goods and manufacturing starts to balloon, the implications and effects become pervasive.
A more expensive sheet of aluminum can lead to layoffs, higher purchasing costs, slower development times, cutting corners, and, in some cases, the collapse of a brand or product category. I’m sure you all remember when eggs became a bit “pricey”, and we saw quite an explosion of creative, if not tasty, substitutes for the traditional American breakfast. A tariff can also vary in terms of total cost, ranging from minor to major, and levying vastly different impacts on the respective industry.
To give an example, the USA recently placed a 25% tariff on Mexican Imports (for non-USMCA-compliant goods). In order for goods to avoid this, they must be compliant under standards requiring a large majority of the final “product” to be built within the USMCA region. The regional clause allows Mexico to avoid 87% of all tariffs on goods, including cars, machinery, electrical equipment, agricultural goods, beer, and spirits. Along with a base 10% tariff for all other countries, these policies were put into play in March of this year.
Tariffs can often be implemented as a trade tool, but are also used as a reactionary or punitive measure. For instance, the tariffs levied against Mexico were cited as a deterrent and countermeasure to an influx of drugs into the USA, where efforts perceived by Mexico were assessed as “lax”, as well as solving a growing trade imbalance between the USA and Mexico. This gives the USA an opportunity to “level” the playing field by encouraging outside companies to invest in USA-based production, pressure foreign competitors to “play ball”, and aid in job creation.
Tariffs are simple, effective, and potent measures to control global and domestic trade. However, they also have wide-ranging implications that extend across both macroeconomic and microeconomic conditions. Let us look forward to a future of balanced and healthy trade!
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Iyer Amruthur is a national sales manager in the ALC San Antonio office and has been with the company for three years. He attended The University of Georgia where he obtained a Bachelor’s Degree in Marketing, with a minor in Communications.
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ALLEN LUND COMPANY, TRANSPORTATION BROKERS, LOOKING FOR REEFER CARRIERS: 1-800-404-5863.
If you are hauling are importing kiwifruit right now, it is coming from New Zealand.
Currently, kiwifruit sold in the United States is being supplied by New Zealand through October, after which the domestic California harvest enters the market, followed by imports from Italy. U.S. goods trade with New Zealand totaled an estimated $10.1 billion in 2024.
Zespri reports the improved outlook to increased yields, improved fruit sizing for Green and RubyRed varieties, and added volume from newly producing orchards, particularly for SunGold and RubyRed.
“We have another bumper crop of more than 200 million trays from New Zealand this season, and our sales programs have started well, particularly in Europe and North America, where we’ve seen strong demand,” according to Zespri CEO Jason Te Brake.
Zespri is also advancing key strategic initiatives, including efforts to increase grower ownership.
As part of a recent share alignment initiative, the proportion of growers who hold shares in Zespri has risen to more than 60%, up from 48%. The increase follows a 2024 grower vote in which 91% supported Zespri’s offshore expansion strategy.
As economic pressure continues to shape consumer choices, a clear trend is emerging: people are finding small, health-forward ways to treat themselves, and blueberries are leading the way. Demand is growing for high-quality, premium blueberries that deliver flavor and freshness, particularly among two distinct groups of shoppers.
First, older consumers with higher incomes ($150k +) or fixed retirement budgets prioritize quality and nutrition in their food purchases and worry less about convenience. For them, produce – especially blueberries – serves as a trusted source of wellness, offering antioxidants, natural sweetness, and versatility without compromise.
At the same time, a second group – middle-income households, especially those with busy, working-age adults – are making strategic choices about what to splurge on. While price remains a consideration, these shoppers are increasingly opting for produce that feels worth the investment, primarily when it supports long-term health goals and everyday convenience.
“We’re seeing shoppers become more intentional,” says Trisha Casper, Customer Insights Manager at Superfresh Growers. “Blueberries strike that perfect balance – healthy, satisfying, and just indulgent enough to feel like a treat without guilt.”
“This season’s Superfresh Growers blueberry crop fits this growing demand for high-quality, premium blueberries,” Trisha notes. “The Superfresh blueberry season is expected to start the third week of June with an abundant and promotable crop. Our Pacific Northwest farms have enjoyed optimal spring weather, providing ideal pollination conditions. We plan to have top-quality berries through September.”
The rise in premium blueberry demand reflects a broader shift in how consumers define value. It’s no longer just about the lowest price – it’s about getting the most from each purchase, especially when it comes to foods that support well-being and lifestyle choices.
As blueberry consumption continues to grow across generations and income levels, this nutrient-dense fruit is proving itself to be more than just a snack – it’s a smart, feel-good staple for modern shoppers and retailers have the opportunity to lean into this momentum by positioning blueberries as a dual-purpose fruit – one that supports health while offering a touch of indulgence.
From in-store signage to digital promotions, the message is clear: blueberries are a high-value item that meets wellness goals and everyday enjoyment.
USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service released the 2025 Acreage Report on June 30. The report showed a 2% overall decline in potatoes acres planted in 2025 (912,000 acres) compared to 2024 (930,000 acres).
Most states saw very modest planting changes this year compared to last year. Colorado (55,000 acres) and Wisconsin (68,000 acres) saw potato acreage gains of 1,000 acres each. North Dakota’s potato acres declined by 1,000 acres to 72,000 acres, while Maine (52,000 acres), and Minnesota (41,000 acres) saw 2,000-acre planting declines.
Washington saw the steepest single-state, year-to-year declines in 2025 at 145,000 acres compared to 160,000 acres last year.
The report notes that Washington potatoes “were emerging ahead of schedule with 95% of the crop emerged as of June 1.” Planting in Idaho, the largest potato-growing state with 315,000 acres planted (steady with 2024), was also noted as ahead of last year with 95% of the crop emerged as of June 15.
Even with the year-to-year changes in Washington, the report didn’t contain any significant surprises for Blair Richardson, CEO of Potatoes USA.
“The relatively minor adjustments to planted acreage estimates in the other states are likely a function of the regular ups and downs related to crop rotations, projected demand, contracted acreage with processing companies and other factors,” he says. “I did not see anything that seemed out of the ordinary.”
Aneberries, (the National Association of Berry Exporters in Mexico, are planning for a record-breaking season, forecasting a 25% increase in shipments to the U.S, rising from around 250,000 tons in 2024 to approximately 300,000 tons by the end of the 2024–2025 season.
Aneberries sees itself as a supplier of strawberries, raspberries, and blackberries to North America, thanks to its unmatched logistics. No other country rivals Mexico in delivering fresh berries to U.S. markets as quickly. Mexico already accounts for nearly 87.8% of all strawberries imported into the U.S., making up 14.8% of the total global export value in fresh berries Aneberries notes while the national berry cultivation area has shrunk, from over 148,000 acres in past years to an estimated 118,700–123,500 acres by November 2025, the industry is pivoting toward improved productivity and variety, rather than seeking increased land use. This strategic shift supports the strawberry export boom without expanding acreage.
Export trends vary across berry types: blueberry exports remain steady at about 63,000 tons despite reduced growing area in Jalisco and northern Sinaloa. Raspberry exports are expected to dip 3%–4%, down from 120,000 to approximately 115,000 tons. In contrast, blackberry exports are projected to rise by 8%, reaching between 80,000 and 85,000 tons, up from 77,000 tons.
Mexico’s berries aren’t just destined for the U.S, other key markets include Canada, Europe, Japan, and various Asian countries. Notably, blueberry shipments to Japan recently doubled, climbing from around 700–800 tons to approximately 1,600 tons.
Todd Greiner Farms Packing, LLC. (TGF) of Hart, MI, a leading grower/packer/shipper of Michigan produce, announces its 2025 sweet corn season. Shipment started the week of July 20th and peak volume expected the week of August 17th, just in time for Labor Day promotions.
This season, TGF will be offering premium bi-color sweet corn, commonly known as “butter and sugar” corn, celebrated for its vibrant color contrast and sweet, juicy flavor. With the company’s recent expansion into full-scale sales and marketing services, retail partners can expect enhanced support, consistent communication, and seamless order fulfillment.
“Todd Greiner Farms is excited to bring another season of high-quality Michigan sweet corn to our retail customers,” said Blake Hansen, National Sales Manager. “With our expanded sales team and marketing capabilities, we’re better positioned than ever to support retailers with a product that’s both a consumer favorite and a strong summer promotional driver.”
While TGF has long been recognized as a national leader in asparagus, Michigan’s reputation as an agricultural powerhouse extends well beyond. The state ranks second only to California in agricultural diversity, and is a top-10 producer of sweet corn, supporting strong seasonal supply programs for retailers nationwide.
According to Tastewise, sweet corn enjoys a long seasonal conversation with over 400,000 consumers engaging on the topic, peaking in both social media buzz and sales between May and October. Its versatility, nostalgic appeal, and summer-friendly preparation make it a reliable staple for produce departments throughout the season.
“We understand what sweet corn means to consumers in the summer months,” said Steve Rudat, Account and Supply Chain Manager. “It’s more than just produce—it’s tradition, backyard barbecues, and family memories. Our goal is to help retailers meet that demand with a high-quality product, shipped fresh and on time.”
Todd Greiner Farms Packing, LLC., located in Hart, MI, is a family-owned and operated fruit, vegetable, and evergreen grower/packer/shipper. Since its founding in 1994, TGF has maintained a reputation for quality and integrity, operating two packing/shipping facilities and holding a Primus Labs – Superior food safety rating. TGF’s diverse product offerings include asparagus, cherries, zucchini, sweet corn, peaches, hard squash, pumpkins, apples, and evergreens.
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Fluctuante reports frozen Peruvian mangoes are regaining momentum after many producers shifted their focus to the fresh market last season. That trend may be be reversing in the 2024–25 season with 67,000 tons of frozen mango exported.”
Processing takes place in the same regions which grow fresh mangoes: Piura, Lambayeque, and Ancash.
Fluctuante notes when exporting frozen mango cubes or slices, you’re targeting a market that wants a ready-to-eat or easy-to-open product.
The main markets for Peruvian frozen mangoes are the United States, Canada, the Netherlands, Belgium, and Chile.
Because of oversupply and tariffs, the U.S. lemon industry experienced devastating price drops., but is now back to a more normal situation.
Interfresh of Orange, CA, reports prices have increased due to the tariffs issues being settled calming and fewer shippers. Interfresh noted at one point lemon f.o.b. prices were the lowest in 30 years.
With less competition there are fewer people selling lemons which is leading to higher prices. There also have been fewer lemon imports.
Imports from Argentina are now arriving, but more focus is being placed on markets such as Europe.
In March 2025, the U.S. implemented several rounds of tariffs, primarily targeting imports from Canada, Mexico and China. This had an impact on lemon exports.
The oversupply from California’s District 1 affected pricing, and the tariffs’ effect on exports exacerbated the issue. Plus, the decrease in U.S. lemon exports at the beginning of the year meant that the domestic market had to absorb a good amount of the supply.
Lemon supplies are now much tighter than in January and February. In the next three to four months, the greater demand and lower supply will lead to an increase in pricing.
KEYSTONE MARKETING
Keystone Fruit Marketing of Greencastle, PA has announced the launch of its inaugural Mexican lemon season.
As the exclusive marketer for this new program, Keystone is excited to offer high-quality lemons under its KFM Citrus label.
“This is a new and exciting chapter for us,” said Matthew Gideon, Sales and Commodity Manager at Keystone. “Our Mexico onion grower planted oranges and lemons a couple of years ago, and this season marks the first time our lemons are commercially viable. It’s a natural extension of our existing relationship, and we’re eager to build on our partnership moving forward.”
The program began in July and will run for approximately three months, with consistent weekly volumes expected throughout the season. Lemons will cross through South Texas and be distributed across the United States and Canada.
Initial production will start with 40-50 acres, with plans to expand to 100 acres by the 2026 summer season. Bulk cartons will be packed in Mexico, while a full lineup of consumer pack options will be available through Keystone’s third-party warehouse in South Texas.
Keystone Fruit Marketing is a division of Progressive Produce. Progressive Produce is a year-round grower/packer/shipper of fresh produce. We grow thousands of acres throughout North and South America of potatoes, onions, asparagus, citrus, and other fruits and vegetables and provide outstanding service 365 days a year.
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ALLEN LUND COMPANY, TRANSPORTATION BROKERS, LOOKING FOR REEFER CARRIERS: 1-800-404-5863.
According to a report by IndexBox, the U.S. berries market will witness steady growth with a CAGR of 4% from 2024 to 2035. The raspberry and blackberry market has been experiencing growth for nine consecutive years, seeing 20% growth of $1.1 billion in 2020. The consumption peaked in 2020 and is expected to continue growing in the years to come.
In 2020, consumption of berries in the United States surged to 161,000 tons, growing by 31% compared with 2019. Revenue in the U.S. during that year also grew by 20% compared to the previous year.
The raspberry and blackberry market in the U.S. consists entirely of imported products; import prices have also increased sharply. However, despite the hike in price, the U.S. relies on foreign supplies due to insufficient domestic output.
According to the report, the U.S. will remain reliant on imports for at least the medium term.