Market Update for Stone Fruit

Week of March 17 – March 23

Chilean stone fruit arrivals are inconsistent, with many importers receiving the last of their yellow nectarines and peaches for the season. We should see increased volumes of late season Angelino black plums now through the middle of April. Yellow nectarines are trading between $18.00 and $20.00, with peaches selling between $20.00 and $22.00. Premium 40 size Angelino black plums are trading between $24.00 and $26.00 FOB.

Cherries

The California cherry season is right around the corner with almost 50% of the crop in full bloom. With the California Cherry Commission not putting out a crop estimate this season; it will be up to the marketers to set the tone for retail programmed prices. Many believe the crop will fall just below 8 million boxes, which will still allow for Memorial Day promotions. There is real concern that Canadian retailers will choose to boycott American cherries, leaving marketers to find new homes for close to 15% of the crop, putting pressure on prices for smaller fruit, as Canada has always provided a good outlet for 11 row and smaller cherries. Even if Canadian retailers choose to buy California cherries, there is no guarantee that consumers will support U.S. grown fruit. Currently, Canadian retailers have started identifying U.S. products on the shelf, making it easier for consumers to make their own decisions, which does not bode well for U.S. products.