Commercial Growers Catalog 2010
In 2009, blueberry growers in the wholesale process market found out that
blueberries were not immune to the “Economic Perfect Storm.” Consumers
quit eating out, food manufacturers quit making products, their buyers quit
buying blueberries, and commercial freezers were not shipping blueberries
out.
All of this put extreme pressure on wholesale prices of frozen blueberries and other fruits. The bottom dropped out of the market and prices were free falling. Finally by summer most of the 2008 frozen crop was sold at bargain prices.
The fresh wholesale market faired much better with Michigan and the U.S.
setting records for fresh blueberry sales! Consumers and our customers
consumed more fresh blueberries than ever before. At our own market and
U-Pick we saw increased sales from 2008. Buying locally and supporting
local farms and markets is still a top priority for most consumers.
Two important things contributed to increased fresh sales. Mother Nature blessed uswith great summer weather. The blueberry industry continued funding of USHBC (U.S.Highbush Blueberry Council). The USHBC assessments continue to promote the “Health Halo” of blueberries to the public.
Don’t miss out on the Blueberry demand; there are many new varieties that have excellent yields and quality of fruit. So contact us and we will be glad to assist you in your selections and plans.
Sincerely,
Mike DeGrandchamp
