Berries

Berries

Fri, Jan 5th, 2024

Dear Ole Tyme Produce Customers:

Strawberries remain extremely short. We are currently in a “demand exceeds supply” situation again this week . This shortness of supply is expected to last through the middle of the month. Shippers are struggling to cover contracts and previous commitments out of all growing regions We expect fill rates to be applied as needed by shippers trying to align daily business. Open market fruit is very difficult to source right now. Here are some updates by region:

  • OXNARD is experiencing cold weather combined with some showers impeding harvests .The colder temperatures are holding back the maturation of the fruit.
  • BAJA will begin to see light production This week although most shippers are saying they will not see significant numbers until the third week of January.
  • CMEX is also experiencing colder temperatures. Labor issues over the Holidays look to be resolved moving into late January. Numbers should begin to slowly ramp back up moving forward into February.
  • FLORIDA like all the other areas, is experiencing cold weather combined with sporadic rain events. This is causing delays in harvesting and some water related quality issues.
  • BLUEBERRIES will continue with firm pricing through January with a lighter than usual crop expected from Chile. Peruvian shipments are nearly done. We are currently in a small supply gap as we wait for product from Chile to ramp up. Central Mexican production should pick up in February.
  • BLACKBERRIES are in a demand exceeds supply situation with cold weather and rain hampering harvest efforts out of Central Mexico . Transfer delays have been reported due to labor shortages at both the field and cooler levels. Markets remain firm.
  • RASPBERRIES continue to cross into the U.S. from Baja and Central Mexico. Baja is expecting better numbers going into February while Central Mexico is seeing slightly lighter numbers .The market is also firm and steady on this item.

If you have any additional questions, please reach out to your Sales Representative or our Customer Service team.

Thank you,

Ole Tyme Produce

“The produce purchased from Ole Tyme Produce is always fresh and expertly packaged. We—and our recipients—appreciate the high quality and variety of produce.”

Kristen Wild

Chief Executive Officer, Operation Food Search

“From the driver to the CEO they bend over backwards to meet your needs. One of the best vendors of any type we have. Highly recommend them.”

Scott Walker

President/CEO, LifeWiseSTL

“In these days of large corporations, it's nice to partner with a local family business. Their name says it all, Ole Tyme Produce, reminding you that their family grown business provides the kind of service you reminisce about from the past with quality grown and delivered products. Over 25 years we have come to count on their outstanding customer service, quality products, and their hospitality driven staff which has helped us grow our successful business. We appreciate their partnership, and we look forward to working together for many years to come.”

Gordon M

Owner/Operator, The Original Pancake House

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3840 Millstone Parkway

St. Charles, MO 63301

(314) 436-5010

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