SINALOA, MX - With a vast network of growers located in Sinaloa, Veggies From Mexico (VFM) is currently gearing up for the start of the 2025–2026 season. The operation’s grower partners will begin with seedlings in July for a wide variety of tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, string beans, hot peppers, and eggplants, among other offerings.

“In recent years, our state has experienced a significant drought. According to weather forecasts, we expect to receive substantial rainfall this summer,” shared Georgius Gotsis, Chief Executive Officer, Veggies From Mexico. “Fortunately, vegetable production has been the least affected, as high-tech irrigation systems, protected agriculture, and other technological tools that help conserve water are being used. For the 2025–2026 season, we expect production volumes similar to last year’s. In the case of corn production, which serves the local market, there will be more challenges due to the lack of water.”

As Georgius notes, now is the ideal time for growers to sit with retailers and plan this year’s sales through contracts with attractive prices for both farmers and consumers. Weekly harvest and sales scheduling by volume allows for efficient planning, streamlining of processes, and maximizing profits for all parties involved.

Another key driver of category growth at retail is consumer education.

“We must continue working to share with the North American consumer that Mexican veggies production has been known for over 100 years for its high quality, flavor, and nutritional value,” Georgius added. “It is essential that they know our produce is backed by food safety and social responsibility standards and certifications. This is especially important in light of the critical situation regarding potential tariffs on our exports to the United States, where consumers could ultimately be the most affected.”

To learn more about Veggies From Mexico’s growers, production timeframes, and contacts, click here.

CALIFORNIA/MEXICO - With the Mexico harvest slowing down and the California season now in full swing, reports state that avocado markets have stabilized over the past couple of months.

PRO*ACT’s The Source report, published on June 4, states that sizes 48 count and smaller are seeing improved conditions, while larger fruit continues to face challenges. With both coasts now receiving offshore fruit, producers have been able to maintain a balance in supply. Our pricing update from April showed that supplies were light out of all regions, but markets seem to have steadied since then.

The USDA’s most recent market report out of California’s Los Angeles Terminal reinforces that current avocado markets are steady. The report lists CA Hass 32s of fair quality 69.00-72.00; lower 36s of fair quality at 69.00-72.00; and 40s of fair quality at 63.00-66.00.

Mexico Hass, according to USDA, is represented by the following numbers:

• 32s 70.00-72.00 mostly 70.00-71.00 occasional higher/lower
• 36s 70.00-72.00 mostly 70.00-71.00 occasional higher
• 40s 64.00-66.00 mostly 65.00-66.00 occasional higher/lower
• 48s 60.00-63.00 mostly 61.00-62.00 occasional lower
• 60s 44.00-47.00 mostly 45.00-46.00 occasional higher
• 70s 38.00-40.00 mostly 39.00-40.00 occasional higher
• 84s 29.00-32.00 mostly 30.00-31.00 occasional higher/lower

With approximately five weeks left before transitioning to the Flora Loca season in Mexico, and peak season through the end of June in California, we will continue to keep our eye on avocado markets.

EASTERN PACIFIC - The 2025 hurricane season is officially underway in the Eastern Pacific, with Hurricane Barbara becoming the first of the year. As of Monday, Barbara was tracking parallel to Mexico’s western coast, bringing flooding rainfall, powerful waves, and hazardous rip currents, though no direct landfall is expected.

“A strengthening trend over the weekend allowed Barbara to reach Category 1 hurricane status early Monday,” explained AccuWeather Senior Meteorologist Bill Deger. While its core remains offshore, Barbara's outer bands are expected to keep seas rough along the Mexican coast into Tuesday.

Meanwhile, Tropical Storm Cosme has formed nearby and could briefly approach hurricane strength before also weakening midweek. AccuWeather forecasters are watching for a possible fourth system to form later this week, with potential development between June 13–15. 

Keep checking ANUK for possible ripple effects on produce movement.

SALINAS, CA - As part of its ongoing commitment to transparency, education, and customer connection, Markon is proud to host its upcoming Customer Tour series in California’s Salinas Valley—known as the “Salad Bowl of the World.”

Markon started off the year strong with a springtime Yuma, Arizona tour, and is now kicking off the Summer of Salinas, inviting restaurant owner-operators and Markon Cooperative’s member representatives to see the extraordinary care and expertise behind the fresh produce they sell and serve every day.

The first Customer Tour will take place on June 9, with a second scheduled for July, and the final in late August. Each tour offers a unique look into the heart of produce production. Guests typically visit active harvests of romaine or iceberg lettuce, strawberries, broccoli or cauliflower, artichokes, and a value-added fresh-cut processing facility. Walking through these fields alongside the farmers, participants gain a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship, food safety, and sustainability practices behind every carton of Markon produce.

“This experience leaves a lasting impression,” said John Galvez, Senior Director of Food Safety and Quality Assurance, in a recent press release. “There’s something powerful about seeing the passion and precision the field harvesting crews bring to their work. It helps our customers understand why we are so selective in choosing our supplier partners.”

As Markon celebrates 40 years of excellence in fresh produce, the Customer Tour program continues to be a cornerstone of its value to foodservice operators and cooperative member companies. These tours offer a rare opportunity to strengthen relationships, share knowledge, and reinforce the deep connections between farm, field, and fork.

“At the end of the day, it’s all about trust,” said Galvez. “These tours allow our customers to experience the Markon difference—not just in the quality of the product, but in the integrity of the people behind it.”