Market Minute: Promote summer fruit ads while supplies last

We all hate to see the door slowly closing on summer. However, it is already September and before closing that summer door there are still a number of high-volume summer items to take advantage of for promotions. Get your share before it ends.

Stone Fruit: There is still a good quantity of California peaches, nectarines, plums and grapes available from the growers and shippers. Eastern peaches are also still available in the Appalachian area. The demand is moderate and market steady. New Jersey peaches are on the lighter supply side and the market is steady. The juicy fruit flavor is at its very best this time of the year.

Grapes: California red and green seedless grapes are also at their best quality right now with plenty of supplies waiting for you to promote. Demand is moderate on a steady market.

Cherries: This deal is just about finished.

Apricots: California is finished for the season.

Melons: California and Arizona Cantaloupe demand is fairly good, but the market is starting to firm up. There is a nice mix of sizes available. Honeydews are limited on a mix of sizes. Demand is good, market steady.

This is a good time to work in another ad special on those summer fruit items that are still available. Continue to promote peaches, nectarines, plums, grapes and melons for increased sales while you can. Once they're gone, they're gone.

Ask your suppliers for their summer fruit availability information. Check with them as far as items, amounts, quality and size recommendations prior to planning your ads.

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].