Giumarra Companies' Gary Caloroso Discusses Avocado Season, Super Bowl Supply
LOS ANGELES, CA - With the Patriots going up against the Rams on Sunday and Maroon 5 as the halftime show, I can assure you that my only reason for Super Bowl gatherings this year is the food. Produce-wise, however, it is definitely a victorious time for avocados no matter what team you ship, and as Giumarra’s Regional Business Development Director, Gary Caloroso, recently shared with me, it’s just the beginning.
“January saw two consecutive record weeks in avocado volume. Overall, Mexican avocado volume projects as slightly higher now through the Spring compared to last year. California avocado volume will be lower this season and will be in higher demand as a result–particularly in the West,” Gary tells me, adding that quality overall is looking excellent and the quantity is prime for retail promotions.
Mother Nature, he adds, has not greatly affected avocado production over the past couple of weeks. If anything, he explains that the increased rain this winter in California helped growers with their groves this year.
When I ask about the bottom line, Gary shares, “Given the larger amount of volume available for the Big Game, market prices are currently lower compared to last year, but they will begin to increase as we move through the Spring.”
The nutritional benefits of avocados remain a major reason why consumer demand for avocados continues to increase, as well as how they can be implemented.
“Combined with great taste, versatility, and year-round availability, avocados have become a really exciting fruit for consumers,” he says. “Guacamole remains a major driver of consumption for the Big Game. Avocado’s incredible versatility has led to other great uses as well including sandwiches, tacos, burritos, salads, and of course, avocado toast.”
But what about when the clock runs out on the biggest game in football? The last touchdown of the season won’t necessarily be the last for avocados, that’s for sure.
“After the game ends on Sunday, Avocados From Mexico has a very aggressive promotional plan with supermarket and restaurant chains throughout the Spring. California will launch its programs as well. There will be lots of promotions to help boost consumer demand,” Gary assures.
2019 has only just begun! Stick around as AndNowUKnow continues to report the latest in all things fresh produce.
