In 2016 the stars aligned for ideal weather and an excellent crop; unfortunately, that also meant there was too much product, more than the market could support.
This can also happen with climate variations that either shorten or lengthen the season, creating overlaps and competion with U.S. or other growing regions.
“Historically, we’ve had fixed start and stop dates,” Righetti explains. “The challenge with global warming is that areas are getting ready sooner. Now things are off by two weeks, behind or early, and it’s because the weather conditions are different. Weather drives the deal.”
Nevertheless, for those at the mercy of seasonal weather or extreme temperature swings, partnering with Mexico is a smart business decision.
As Pacific Produce’s Mark Vestal, puts it, “If you’re going to be a buyer, you need to have Mexico as part of your program—that’s the future.”
Image: Richard Laschon/Shutterstock.com
