As we move through the back half of May, the market remains active across several high-volume categories. Cooler coastal weather continues to limit strawberry harvest yields, while avocados and small lemons are facing tightening supply and rising costs. Row crop markets are mixed, with some items improving and others still under pressure from disease and reduced yields.

Stemilt is beginning the 2026 Northwest cherry season with forecasts of a slightly smaller crop than last year, which was a strong harvest that gave retailers solid volume options. Brianna Shales, marketing director for Stemilt Growers said that this season could shape up to have, “more demand than supply at several points, which makes it all the more important to align promotions when volume arises and make quick adjustments so that there aren’t opportunities, or dollars, left on the table.” 

As Mexico’s avocado industry surpasses a historic export milestone, GLC Cerritos says the record-setting season reflects both the strength of consumer demand and the growing sophistication of Mexico’s year-round supply capabilities.

This week, Mexico was expected to exceed 2.5 billion pounds of avocados exported to the United States in a single season for the first time ever — eclipsing the previous record set in 2023, with several weeks still remaining in the marketing year.

Bee Sweet Citrus is bringing a new variety to market this season, and it has been a long time coming. Grower Nancy Lange dedicated over a decade to testing the Rosy Red Valencia, with an initial experimental planting of more than 400 trees in 2014 and commercial planting beginning in 2019. This marks Bee Sweet's inaugural season for growing, packing and shipping the variety.

Bee Sweet Citrus has long made sustainability a defining part of its identity, and the company's commitment to transparency around that effort is equally important. J.D. Freitas, sustainability manager at Bee Sweet Citrus, said environmental and social sustainability are crucial to the company's operations, with efforts covering water conservation, soil health, biodiversity, waste reduction and energy efficiency.

Bee Sweet Citrus’ shipping department has launched an online check-in platform for drivers picking up fruit at their facility. This custom digital portal enables seamless two-way communication between drivers and shipping clerks, ensuring a hassle-free pickup experience.