Mixed berry prices to rise on tight volume

Blueberry, raspberry, and blackberry supplies are tightening, which will likely cause prices to rise over the next few weeks.

According to an alert to buyers from Markon Cooperative BB #:123315 on February 15, mixed berry supplies are becoming harder to find, and blueberry volume will remain the most challenged over the next two weeks.

Markon’s report said:

Blueberries

• Mexican volume has dipped; supplies will increase in late February when spring production moves into full swing
• Import shipments from Chile and Peru are experiencing vessel delays and unloading challenges
• Texas-grown supplies are tight
• Stocks will be extremely limited this week and next; expect volume to rise the week of February 28

Blackberries

• Mexican production is past its peak; supplies are tightening
• Texas-grown supplies are limited
• Markets are inching up
• Quality remains strong

Raspberries

• Mexican supplies are tighter this week
• Texas-grown supplies are scarce
• Markets are firming
• Quality is very good

As of February 16, USDA hadn’t recorded higher prices yet.