Market Minute: Produce markets to weaken for summer promotions

Get ready for summer. It’s hard to believe June is here already. The summer solstice is officially around the corner marking the first day of summer in the Northern Hemisphere on Wednesday, June 21.

What are the equinox and solstice anyway?

The summer and winter solstice are the longest and shortest days of the year while the equinoxes are an equal amount of daylight and darkness across the earth.

The months of June, July and August are the ideal months to generate high volume movement of fresh produce in stores. Peppers, onions, potatoes, sweet corn and other veggie items are ideal for cookouts and grilling.

Sweet Corn: Excellent grilling item. The Florida corn has transitioned over to the new crop in Georgia. Demand is moderate with a higher market. White corn is on the light side. California corn is in good demand and the market is slightly lower. The quality of all the corn is excellent.

Green Bell Peppers: Demand good with a steady market. Both eastern and western peppers have good supply and excellent quality. Lower prices for promotion.

Lettuce: Demand good. The 24-size market is higher, and the 30-size is steady. The market is remaining higher, but some local crops are starting to be offered, which should balance prices.

California Strawberries: Demand is light and the market is lower. Supply is heading toward peaking in the following weeks ahead. Quality is outstanding as expected. This is the time for heavy volume and promotions.

Your suppliers are on top of the new crops arriving so be sure to make plans with them for your ad promotions.

Ron Pelger is a produce industry adviser and industry writer. He can be contacted at 775/843-2394 or by e-mail at [email protected].