October 22, 2021

2021-Week 42

October 22, 2021/ Paul Wilson

QUICKLINKS

AVOCADO OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

The figures released this week saw Western Australia maintain the lead in production contributing 57% of the total national harvest of some 470,624 trays last week; followed by New Zealand at 16%; Tristates at 11%; Central NSW with 9%; and South Qld contributing 5%. The remaining 2% came from a combination of the following regions Sunshine Coast, and Tamborine/Northern Rivers. This production figure represents a staggering 33% increase on week prior and was also 4% higher than what was forecast for the week. All major supermarkets are selling premium Hass at $1.10- $1.50per piece, whilst independents were selling class one fruit also for $1.00-$2.00/piece depending upon quality/size. Within the markets things have remained relatively unchanged, premium trays of WA hass are selling in the range of $14 -$20/tray (very good quality getting a little $22) depending upon size and quality of each line; whereas premium NZ fruit is fetching $10-$15 (anything with colour or out-of-date spec is selling for $6-$10). Pricing for class one fruit has remained stable (main sales) is ranging $6 -$14 per tray; whilst the bulk market has been experiencing prices for premium in the range of $6 to $14 (2nds) --$14-$25/ctn for premium bulks depending upon grade, quality and count size.

The national production of Hass this week is forecast to be in the vicinity of 420,000 to 440,000 trays and then the forecast is for figures ranging in the range of 500-530,000 trays for the last week of October followed by a couple of weeks of between 420-440K per week for the next fortnight thereafter. You will note that WA have contributed 57% of the national volume last week which equates to approximately 268,000 trays. The weather in the south west corner of WA has experienced rain most days in the last week, whilst early morning minimum temps ranging 7.2 to 13.6C and daytime maximum temps of 16.1 to 27.2C. The Manjimup region experienced 19.2mm of rain in the last week up till Wednesday, with more rain expected late week. Pemberton region has been a little cooler with lows of 6-12.2C and daytime averages of 17.3-27.2C; they too have had rainfall across the week with a total fall of 22mm. Growers are very aware of the increased possibility of nodule damage if fruit is picked and transited during rainfall so structure their week to minimalize the effect that the weather may have.

Avocado display presentation in Qld stores this week was generally pleasing and pricing in all three major supermarkets varied a little depending upon store location and banner. NZ stock was older fruit with age ranging 27-29 days; whilst Woolworths stores had a percentage of Australian fruit and therefore fruit was fresher with fruit age ranging 10 to 19 days.

In terms of Hass retail pricing in Qld shelf prices were as follows: Aldi Qld had Hass at $1.29ea; Coles Qld had Hass ticketed at $1.50 ea or 3 for $4.00; and Woolworths Qld had prominently positioned instore displays of Hass also ticketed at $1.10-$1.30ea. The majority of fruit on shelves, was found to be coloured or developing skin colour and yielding to gentle pressure.

Prepack formulations on offer by all major supermarkets provide an opportunity to move greater volumes in a single purchase. Aldi were offering their 6 piece nets on special at $5.99ea ; Coles had their 5 piece pack at $4.90 ea; whilst Woolworths had the 5 pack on offer for $4.50 and the 1kg Odd Bunch ticketed at $3.90/bag on special.

SUPERMARKET & MARKET PRICING FOR NEXT WEEK

RETAIL SNAPSHOTS OF AVOCADOS

Below: Coles Carindale, Browns Plains and Indooroopilly Displays

Coles stores had Hass avocados priced at just $1.50ea or 3 for $4.00. Primarily all NZ stock. With packed dates from 21st to 24th Sept therefore fruit age is 23 to 26 days. Displayed on ends and table top units.
Stores had 5 piece packs at $4.90 ea - these too were filled with fruit of NZ origin.
Loose organic hass ranged in some stores at $4.00ea.

Below: Aldi Carindale, Browns Plains and Indooroopilly Displays

NZ Hass loose count 23/25 @ $1.29 each everywhere and 6 piece Hass nets filled with NZ fruit at $5.99.
All fruit was well stocked and with loose having strong skin colour with a percentage being quite soft. Fruit age 22-29 days.

Below: Woolworths Carindale, Browns Plains and Indooroopilly Displays

Stores had Hass avocados at $1.10ea to $1.30 each depending upon size being stocked with count 16/18 selling for $1.30ea - a presence of minor skin marking on a few lines but a good mix of maturity on offer. Majority of WW stores visited this week had Australian grown fruit and hence the fruit was much fresher.
Fruit age 10 to 15 days old.
5 piece packs at $4.50/ pack and 1kg Odd Bunch ticketed at $3.90ea

BANANA OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

In the past week the morning temperatures have definitely warmed up in North Qld with all regions early a.m. temps falling within a range of 17.4 to 20.9C; whilst day time temperatures are giving us a glimpse of summer ranging 30.9 to 36.7C. In terms of rainfall this week Walkamin experienced the highest falls for the week with a total of 46mm whilst Mareeba received 27mm, Innisfail 12mm with Tully being relatively dry this week. If the warm weather experienced over the last week continues then bunch age will be coming back but it is still sitting at 16-17 weeks on farm currently.

The national cut last week was a whopping 562,185 cartons which was a solid increase of 130,632 ctns on the week prior. The forecast for this week to be in a range of 500-520,000 cartons. This will no doubt see continued promotional activity in the banana space next week.

Cavendish in general this week presented better. Less marking in general though fruit is still were exhibiting small minor skin marks, some neck damage; and a small degree of bat/bird marking still being seen. Colour was generally good with more plentiful supplies of fruit ready to eat and brighter bloom than in recent times.

Retail ticket pricing in Queensland on bananas varied this week amongst the major supermarkets with Aldi running a Eastern seaboard catalogue special with fruit priced at at $1.99/kg; Both Coles and Woolies stores in the centres visited rallied to meet this special and had ticketed prices of $2.00-$3.00/kg depending upon store location and proximity to an Aldi store.

RETAIL SNAPSHOT OF BANANAS

Below: Coles Carindale, Browns Plains and Indooroopilly Displays

Cavendish was priced at $2 - $3/kg, with Kids 750g banded clusters at $2 - $3/kg depending upon store location and positioning with reference to an Aldi who had a national special on bananas at $1.99/kg. Quality across stores was quite good though some clusters found with minor skin marking, neck damage and rub marking.
Lady Fingers were priced at $7.90/kg. Red Tips at $4.90/kg.

Below: Aldi Carindale, Browns Plains and Indooroopilly Displays

Stores had Cavendish @ $1.999/kg. A small percentage of fruit that was of semi colour condition present.
Lady Finger bananas were priced @ $5.99/kg

Below: Woolworths Carindale, Browns Plains and Indooroopilly Displays

Woolworths had Cavendish bananas priced at $2.00/kg, Lil Sana kids banded clusters at $2.50. Displays were generally well presented with most stores utilizing the new bright shelf strips which highlight for customer stock that is ready to eat now and stock that will be ready in a couple of days - a little minor neck damage; minor bat/bird marking; rust thrip damage and bronzing observed in some stores.
Lady fingers were priced at $7.50/kg - rub and maturity bronzing found as well as a few clusters with split peel.
Red tips were priced at $4.00/kg - some found with sooty mould.

October 11, 2021

2021-Week 40

October 11, 2021/ Paul Wilson

QUICKLINKS

Avocado Overview

Banana Overview

AVOCADO OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

The figures released this week saw Western Australia maintain the lead in production contributing 39% of the total national harvest of some 420,754 trays last week; followed by New Zealand at 25%; Tristates at 17%; Central NSW with 10%; and South Qld contributing 7%. The remaining 2% came from a combination of the following regions Sunshine Coast, Tamborine/Northern Rivers; and Central Qld. This production figure represents a 4% increase on week prior and was 9% higher than what was forecast for the week. All major supermarkets are selling premium Hass at $0.99- $1.50per piece, whilst independents were selling class one fruit also for $1.00-$2.00/piece depending upon quality/size. Within the markets, premium trays of hass are selling in the range of $12 -$18/tray (very good quality getting a little $18) depending upon size and quality of each line. There has been no change to supermarket pricing - this remained stable for several weeks and is expected to remain stable for the next two to three weeks at least. Pricing for class one fruit (main sales) is ranging $2 -$9 per tray; whilst the bulk market has been experiencing prices for premium in the range of $2 to $12 (2nds) --$12-$20/ctn for premium bulks depending upon grade, quality and count size.

The national production of Hass this week is forecast to be in the vicinity of 420,000 to 430,000 trays and then the forecast is for figures ranging in the range of 400-420,000 trays per week for the next three weeks thereafter. You will note that WA have contributed 39% of the national volume last week which equates to approximately 164,000 trays. The weather in the south west corner of WA has experienced rain most days in the last week, whilst early morning minimum temps ranging 3.2 to 11.9C and daytime maximum temps of 12.4 to 16.9C. The Manjimup region experienced 32mm of rain in the last week. Pemberton region has also had further rainfall though BOM is a little scare of data. Growers are very aware of the increased possibility of nodule damage if fruit is picked and transited during rainfall so structure their week to minimalise the effect that the weather may have.

Avocado display presentation in Qld stores this week was generally pleasing and pricing in all three major supermarkets varied a little depending upon store location and banner.

In terms of Hass retail pricing in Qld shelf prices were as follows: Aldi Qld had Hass at $0.99ea; Coles Qld had Hass ticketed at $1.50 ea or 3 for $4.00; and Woolworths Qld had prominently positioned instore displays of Hass also ticketed at $1.10ea. The majority of fruit on shelves, was found to be coloured or developing skin colour and yielding to gentle pressure.

Prepack formulations on offer by all major supermarkets provide an opportunity to move greater volumes in a single purchase. Aldi were offering their 6 piece nets on special at $4.99ea ; Coles had their 5 piece pack at $4.90 ea; whilst Woolworths had the 5 pack on offer for $4.50 and the 1kg Odd Bunch ticketed at $3.90/bag on special.

SUPERMARKET & MARKET PRICING FOR NEXT WEEK

RETAIL SNAPSHOTS OF AVOCADOS

Below: Coles Carindale, Garden City and Greenslopes Displays

Coles stores had Hass avocados priced at just $1.20ea or 3 for $4.00
Stores had 5 piece packs at $5.50 and 1kg I’m Perfect packs at $3.50 each.

Below: Aldi Carindale, Garden City and Acacia Ridge Displays

NZ Hass loose count 23/25 @ 99c each everywhere and 6 piece Hass nets filled with NZ fruit at $5.99.
All fruit was well stocked and with loose having strong skin colour with a percentage being quite soft.

Below: Woolworths Carindale, Garden City and Acacia Ridge Displays

Most stores had Hass avocados at $1.20ea on Wednesday, one store had them priced at $1.30 each but were selling count 16/18 - a presence of minor skin marking on a few lines but a good mix of maturity on offer.
Fruit age 11 to 15 days old.
5 piece packs at $4.50/ pack and 1kg Odd Bunch ticketed at $3.90ea

BANANA OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

In the past week the morning temperatures having finally started warming up in North Qld again in all regions within a range of 15.4 to 20.6C; whilst day time temperatures have ranged 25.6 to 36.5C. In terms of rainfall all regions have been relatively dry this week with the exception of Walkamin which has experienced light rainfall most days totally 40mm for the week. If the warm weather experienced over the last week continues then bunch age will be coming back but it is still sitting at 15-17 weeks on farm currently.

The national cut is forecast for this week to be in a range of 440-460,000 cartons.

Most lines of displayed fruit were exhibiting small minor skin marks, some with light sap staining; bat/bird marking still being seen; rust thrip damage; as well as neck creases found on a few lines on shelf. Colour was generally good ie brighter than in recent times though in a number of stores there seemed to be a higher presence of semi-coloured fruit. Whilst fruit bloom has definitely improved over recent weeks, there is still a low level presence of fruit with dull bloom on show in a few stores.

Retail ticket pricing in Queensland on bananas varied this week amongst the major supermarkets with Aldi offering fruit at $2.49/kg; Coles with fruit ticketed at $2.50 - $3.50/kg and Woolworths at $2.50-$3.50/kg in the stores visited this week.

RETAIL SNAPSHOT OF BANANAS

Below: Coles Carindale, Garden City and Camp Hill Displays

Cavendish was priced at $2.50/kg, with Kids 750g banded clusters at $2.50/kg. Quality across stores was quite good though some clusters found with sooty mould, bronzing and minor skin marking.
Lady Fingers were priced at $7.90/kg. Red Tips at $4.90/kg.

Below: Aldi Carindale, Garden City and Camp Hill Displays

Stores had Cavendish @ $2.49/kg. A small percentage of fruit that was of semi colour condition present.
Lady Finger bananas were priced @ $5.99/kg

Below: Woolworths Carindale, Garden City and Camp Hill Displays

Woolworths had Cavendish bananas priced at $3.50/kg, Lil Sana kids banded clusters at $2.50. Displays were generally well presented with most stores utilizing the new bright shelf strips which highlight for customer stock that is ready to eat now and stock that will be ready in a couple of days - a little minor neck damage; minor bat/bird marking; rust thrip damage and bronzing observed in some stores.
Lady fingers were priced at $7.50/kg - rub and maturity bronzing found as well as a few clusters with split peel.
Red tips were priced at $4.00/kg - some found with sooty mould.

September 26, 2021

2021-Week 38

September 26, 2021/ Paul Wilson

QUICKLINKS

Avocado Overview

Banana Overview

AVOCADO OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

The figures released this week saw Western Australia maintain the lead in production contributing 33% of the total national harvest of some 449,010 trays last week; followed by New Zealand at 23%; Tristates at 20%; Central NSW with 13%; and South Qld contributing 9%. The remaining 2% came from a combination of the following regions Sunshine Coast, Tamborine/Northern Rivers; and Central Qld. This production figure represents a 40% increase on week prior and was 5% higher than what was forecast for the week. All major supermarkets are selling premium Hass at $1.19- $1.30 per piece, whilst independents were selling class one fruit also for $1.00-$2.00/piece depending upon quality/size. Within the markets, premium trays of hass are selling in the range of $10 -$16/tray depending upon size and quality of each line. Pricing for class one fruit (main sales) is ranging $2 -$9 per tray; whilst the bulk market has been experiencing prices for premium in the range of $1 to $5 (2nds) --$10-$20/ctn for premium bulks depending upon grade, quality and count size.

The national production of Hass this week is forecast to be in the vicinity of 430,000 to 440,000 trays and then the forecast is for figures ranging in the range of 420-450,000 trays per week for the next three weeks thereafter. You will note that WA have contributed 33% of the national volume last week which equates to approximately 148,000 trays. The weather in the south west corner of WA has been rather cool across the last week with early morning minimum temps ranging 2.4 to 9.9C and daytime maximum temps of 12.0 to 17.4C. The Manjimup region experienced 27mm of rain up to last Sunday and whilst it has been relatively dry for the start of this week the skies are grey and overcast and from Sunday on, daily rainfall is predicted for the next week. The Pemberton region has already experienced rainfall this week and again more is forecast. So this means picking and packing may be interrupted next week.

Avocado display presentation in Qld stores this week was generally pleasing and pricing in all three major supermarkets varied a little depending upon store location.

In terms of Hass retail pricing in Qld shelf prices were as follows: Aldi Qld had Hass still at $1.19ea; Coles Qld had Hass ticketed at $1.20 each; and Woolworths Qld had prominently positioned instore displays of Hass also ticketed at $1.20 - $1.30ea - even though a couple of stores had old price signage up at $1 ea on our visits - this was soon remedied. The majority of fruit on shelves, was found to be coloured or developing skin colour and yielding to gentle pressure.

Prepack formulations on offer by all major supermarkets provide an opportunity to move greater volumes in a single purchase. Aldi were offering their 6 piece nets on special at $4.99 ea ; Coles had their 5 piece pack at $5.50 ea; whilst Woolworths had the 5 pack on offer for $4.50 and the 1kg Odd Bunch ticketed at $3.90/bag on special.

SUPERMARKET & MARKET PRICING FOR NEXT WEEK

RETAIL SNAPSHOTS OF AVOCADOS

Below: Coles Cooparoo, Carindale and Fairfield Displays

Coles stores had Hass avocados priced at just $1.20ea.
Stores had 5 piece packs at $5.50 and 1kg I’m Perfect packs at $3.50 each.

Below: Aldi Cooparoo, Carindale and Fairfield Displays

NZ Hass loose count 23/25 @ $1.19c each everywhere and 6 piece Hass nets filled with NZ fruit at $4.99.
All fruit was well stocked and with loose having strong skin colour with a percentage being quite soft.
Fruit on display was between 27 and 30 days old with packed on dates from 23rd August to 27th August found.
All stores had pricing tickets which said Product of Australia and yet stock was from NZ. The prepack line had swing tags that said Product of NZ but pricing tickets that said Product of Australia????

Below: Woolworths Cooparoo, Carindale and Moorooka Displays

Most stores had Hass avocados at $1.20ea on Wednesday, one store had them priced at $1.30 each but were selling count 16/18 - a presence of minor skin marking on a few lines but a good mix of maturity on offer.
Fruit age 11 to 15 days old.
5 piece packs at $4.50/ pack and 1kg Odd Bunch ticketed at $3.90ea

BANANA OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

National production last week saw a total of 441,000 cartons harvested and sent to markets around Australia. This was a 9.9% decrease on the previous week equating to almost 49,000 fewer cartons. In the past week the morning temperatures dropped a little in all regions within a range of 12.2 to 17.3C across the major growing regions in North Qld; whilst day time temperatures have ranged 24.8 to 28.7C. In terms of rainfall all regions have been relatively dry including Mareeba as well as Innisfail and Tully with only minor falls however Walkamin had an average of 6-8 mm per day. Bunch age will gradually decrease in terms of how long it takes the bunch to form and fill-out but it is still sitting at 15-16 weeks on farm. Production this week for the industry is forecast to be within a range of 460-480,000 cartons.

Most lines of displayed fruit were exhibiting small minor skin marks, some with light bat/bird marking still being seen; rust thrip damage; neck creases and a presence of sap stains found on a few lines on shelf. Colour was generally good ie brighter than in recent times though in a number of stores there seemed to be a higher presence of semi-coloured fruit (a few of these were a little greener than semi-coloured). Still seeing a low presence of fruit with dull bloom on show in stores. Signage continued to be displayed in both Coles and Woolworths stores alerting their customers of the impact of cold winter temperatures on bananas during growth resulting in a dull bloom, yet fruit is still sweet to eat.

Retail ticket pricing in Queensland on bananas was uniform amongst the major supermarkets with Aldi offering fruit at $3.49/kg; Coles with fruit ticketed at $3.50/kg and Woolworths at $3.50-$4.00/kg in the stores visited this week.

RETAIL SNAPSHOT OF BANANAS

Below: Coles Cooparoo, Carindale and Fairfield Displays

Cavendish was priced at $3.50/kg, with Kids 750g banded clusters at $3.50/kg. Quality across stores was quite good though some clusters found with sooty mould, bronzing and minor skin marking.
Lady Fingers were priced at $7.90/kg. Red Tips at $5.50/kg.

Below: Aldi Cooparoo, Carindale and Fairfield Displays

Stores had Cavendish @ $3.49/kg. A small percentage of fruit that was of semi colour condition present.
Lady Finger bananas were priced @ $5.99/kg

Below: Woolworths Cooparoo, Carindale and Moorooka Displays

Woolworths had Cavendish bananas priced at $3.50/kg, Lil Sana kids banded clusters at $2.50. Displays were generally well presented with most stores utilizing the new bright shelf strips which highlight for customer stock that is ready to eat now and stock that will be ready in a couple of days - a little minor neck damage; minor bat/bird marking; rust thrip damage and bronzing observed in some stores.
Lady fingers were priced at $7.50/kg - rub and maturity bronzing found as well as a few clusters with split peel.
Red tips were priced at $4.00/kg - some found with sooty mould.

September 17, 2021

2021-Week 37

September 17, 2021/ Paul Wilson

QUICKLINKS

Avocado Overview

Banana Overview

AVOCADO OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

The figures released this week saw yet another change of guard with respects to the lead in production with Western Australia contributing 29% of the total national harvest of some 320 807 trays last week; followed by Tristates at 27%; Central NSW with 18%; South Qld contributing 13%; and New Zealand contributing 7%. The remaining 6% came from a combination of the following regions Sunshine Coast, Tamborine/Northern Rivers; Central Qld and North Qld. This production figure represents an 19% decrease on week prior and was 18% lower than what was forecast for the week. All major supermarkets are selling premium Hass at $0.99- $1.30 per piece, whilst independents were selling class one fruit also for $0.49 - $1.00/piece. Within the markets, premium trays of hass are selling in the main range of $10 -$16/tray depending upon size and quality of each line. Pricing for class one fruit (main sales) is ranging $2 -$8 per tray; whilst the bulk market has been experiencing prices for premium in the range of $1 to $5 (2nds) --$10-$20/ctn for premium bulks depending upon grade, quality and count size.

The national production of Hass this week is forecast to be in the vicinity of 420,000 to 430,000 trays and then the forecast shows figures ranging in the range of 420-450,000 trays per week for the next three weeks thereafter. You will note that WA have contributed 29% of the national volume last week which equates to approximately 93,000 trays. The weather in the south west corner of WA has been rather cool across the last week with early morning minimum temps ranging 2.7 to 9.2C and daytime maximum temps of 12.6 to 20.3C. The Manjimup region experienced 34mm of rain up to last Sunday and then it has been relatively dry throughout the remainder of this week though another front has been forecast so we may see more rain late this week.

Avocado display presentation in Qld stores this week was generally pleasing and pricing in all three major supermarkets varied a little depending upon store location.

In terms of Hass retail pricing in Qld shelf prices were as follows: Aldi Qld had Hass still at $0.99ea; Coles Qld had Hass ticketed at $1.20 each; and Woolworths Qld had prominently positioned instore displays of Hass also ticketed at $1.20 ea. The majority of fruit on shelves, was found to be coloured or developing skin colour and yielding to gentle pressure.

Prepack formulations on offer by all major supermarkets provide an opportunity to move greater volumes in a single purchase. Aldi were offering their 6 piece nets on special at $4.99 ea ; Coles had their 5 piece pack at $5.50 ea and 1kg I’m Perfect packs selling at $3.90ea; whilst Woolworths had the 5 pack on offer for $4.50 and the 1kg Odd Bunch ticketed at $3.50/bag on special.

SUPERMARKET & MARKET PRICING FOR NEXT WEEK

RETAIL SNAPSHOTS OF AVOCADOS

Below: Coles Garden City, Forest Lake and Mt Ommaney Displays

Coles stores had Hass avocados priced at just $1.20ea.
Stores had 5 piece packs at $5.50 and 1kg I’m Perfect packs at $3.50 each.

Below: Aldi Garden City, Forest Lake and Mt Ommaney Displays

NZ Hass count 23/25 @ 99c each everywhere and 6 piece Hass nets at $4.99.
All fruit was well stocked and had strong skin colour with a percentage being quite soft.
Fruit on display was between 27 and 29 days old with packed on dates from 17th August to 19th August found.
All stores had pricing tickets which said Product of Australia and yet stock was from NZ. The prepack line had swing tags that said Product of NZ but pricing tickets that said Product of Australia????

Below: Woolworths Garden City, Forest Lake and Mt Ommaney Displays

Most stores had Hass avocados at $1.20ea on Wednesday - a presence of minor skin marking on a few lines and a good mix of maturity on offer in some of these stores.
Fruit age 11 to 15 days old.
5 piece packs at $4.50/ pack and 1kg Odd Bunch ticketed at $3.90ea

BANANA OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

In the past week the morning temperatures are starting to warm up within a range of 14.5 to 20.1C across the major growing regions in North Qld; whilst day time temperatures have ranged 22.1 to 32.5C. In terms of rainfall all regions have been relatively dry this week in Mareeba and Walkamin but all other NQ growing regions have experienced 18-20mm each for the week. Now that the weather is warming bunch age will gradually decrease in terms of how long it takes the bunch to form and fill-out or if you prefer, as the sunlight hours increase together with warmer temperatures growth will hasten - we are now seeing bunch age range 15-16 weeks on farm.

Most lines of displayed fruit were exhibiting small minor skin marks, some with light bat/bird marking; neck creases and a presence of sap stains as well as a little sooty mould found on a few lines. Colour was generally good through out with stores offering both coloured and semi-coloured fruit (a few of these were a little greener than semi-coloured though). Still seeing some fruit with dull bloom on show in stores. Signage continued to be displayed in both Coles and Woolworths stores alerting their customers of the impact of cold winter temperatures on bananas during growth resulting in a dull bloom, yet fruit is still sweet to eat.

Retail ticket pricing in Queensland on bananas varied between the major supermarkets with Aldi offering fruit at $3.49/kg; Coles with fruit ticketed at $3.00/kg and Woolworths at $3.50/kg in the stores visited this week.

RETAIL SNAPSHOT OF BANANAS

Below: Coles Garden City, Forest Lake and Mt Ommaney Displays

Cavendish was priced at $3.50/kg, with Kids 750g banded clusters at $3.50/kg. Quality across stores was quite good though some clusters found with sooty mould, bronzing and minor skin marking.
Lady Fingers were priced at $7.90/kg. Red Tips at $5.50/kg.

Below: Aldi Garden City, Forest Lake and Mt Ommaney Displays

Stores had Cavendish @ $3.49/kg. A small percentage of fruit that was of semi colour condition present.
Lady Finger bananas were priced @ $5.99/kg

Below: Woolworths Garden City, Forest Lake and Mt Ommaney Displays

Woolworths had Cavendish bananas priced at $3.50/kg, Lil Sana kids banded clusters at $2.50. Displays were generally well presented with most stores utilizing the new bright shelf strips which highlight for customer stock that is ready to eat now and stock that will be ready in a couple of days - a little minor neck damage; minor bat/bird marking; rust thrip damage and bronzing observed in some stores.
Lady fingers were priced at $7.50/kg - rub and maturity bronzing found as well as a few clusters with split peel.
Red tips were priced at $4.00/kg - some found with sooty mould.

August 26, 2021

2021-Week 34

August 26, 2021/ Paul Wilson

QUICKLINKS

Avocado Overview

Banana Overview

AVOCADO OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

The figures released this week again saw Central Qld maintaining the lead in terms of avocado production accounting for 36% of the total harvest of some 453,470 trays last week; followed by Central NSW with 17%; South Qld at 15%; WA at 14% and Tristate at 13%. The remaining 5% came from a combination of the following regions Sunshine Coast, Tamborine; Northern Rivers; North Qld and a trickle from New Zealand. This production figure represents a 7% increase on week prior and was 7% higher than what was forecast for the week. All major supermarkets are selling premium Hass at $0.99- $1.00 per piece, whilst independents were selling class one fruit also for $1.00/piece. It is hoped that with pricing reset at this piece rate that sales will enliven. Within the markets, avocado sales for premium trays are in the range of $10 -$18/tray depending upon size and quality of each line. Pricing for class one fruit (main sales) is ranging $3 --$8 per tray; whilst the bulk market has been experiencing prices for premium in the range of $1 to $5 (2nds) --$10-$25/ctn for premium bulks depending upon grade, quality and count size.

The national production of Hass this week is forecast to be in the vicinity of 430,000 trays and then the forecast shows figures ranging in the range of 430-460,000 trays per week for the next three weeks. With both Sydney and Melbourne still in lockdown due to Covid 19 the markets are struggling to move the volume of fruit they have with many merchants asking growers not to send unless they have authorised consignments. This has significantly devalued class one and the bulk market with no real change anticipated in the near future. You will note that WA have again contributed 14% of the national volume this week which equates to approximately 63,500 trays. The weather in the south west corner of WA experienced rain 4 out of the last 7 days with between 2 and 6mm per day, morning temps ranging 4.3-9.5C and daytime temps of 12.7 to 20.3C - relatively as forecast for the last week. Tristates contributed another 13% which is approx 60,000 trays. Both regions are holding steady at the moment in terms of harvesting with markets being in a contracted state.

Avocado display presentation in Qld stores this week was generally pleasing and pricing in all three major supermarkets has remained at a stable $1 a piece - so we are hoping this stimulates consumer appetites for a few extra avocados in their shopping baskets this week. Whilst checking on stores this week, I overheard shoppers when at the avocado display with comments like “at a $1 each we can put a couple in the basket” which is pleasing indeed.

In terms of Hass retail pricing in Qld shelf prices were as follows: Aldi Qld had Hass back at $0.99ea; Coles Qld had Hass ticketed at $1.00 each; and Woolworths Qld had prominently positioned instore displays of Hass also ticketed at $1.00-$1.10 ea. The majority of fruit on shelves, whilst having developing skin colour was found to be just yielding to firm. Prepack formulations on offer by all major supermarkets provide an opportunity to move greater volumes in a single purchase. Aldi were offering their 6 piece nets on special at $3.99 ea and featured in their weekly catalogue; Coles had their 5 piece pack at $4.50 ea and 1kg I’m Perfect packs selling at $3.50ea; whilst Woolworths had the 5 pack on offer for $5.00-$5.90 and the 1kg Odd Bunch ticketed at $3.90/bag.

SUPERMARKET & MARKET PRICING FOR NEXT WEEK

RETAIL SNAPSHOTS OF AVOCADOS

Below: Coles Fairfield, Garden City and Cooparoo Displays

Coles stores had Hass avocados priced at just $1.00ea.
Stores had 5 piece packs at $4.50 and 1kg I’m Perfect packs at $3.50 each.

Below: Aldi Acacia Ridge, Garden City and Cooparoo Displays

Hass @ 99c each everywhere and 6 piece Hass nets at $3.99.
All fruit was well stocked and of good quality with minimal bruising/damage - light nodule damage present on some lines.
Fruit on display was between 6 and 14 days old.

Below: Woolworths Acacia Ridge, Garden City and Cooparoo Displays

Most stores had Hass avocados at $1.00ea on Wednesday - a presence of minor skin marking on a few lines and a good mix of maturity on offer in some of these stores.
Fruit age 11 to 15 days old.
5 piece packs at $5.00/ pack and 1kg Odd Bunch ticketed at $3.90ea

BANANA OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

In the past week the morning temperatures have cooled with a range of 14 to 20.2C across the major growing regions in North Qld; whilst day time temperatures have ranged 23.2 to 30.6C. In terms of rainfall, both Innisfail and Tully have received a little more rain this week with a total of 30mm for Innisfail and 12mm for Tully across the week; whilst Mareeba and Walkamin districts have both been relatively dry over the last week. With the continuation of rather mild weather, there has not been a great deal of change with respect to bunch age this week - so we are still ranging 16-17 weeks on farm. Growth rates are steady, with not a great deal of change expected until the weather heats up and they day lengthens.

The national cut for last week was just shy of 471K cartons. This figure represented a decrease of 6.15% on the previous week. The national cut for this week is expected to be similar, within a range of 480-500K cartons. On farm we are grading out 10-15% with heavier marking to ensure fruit is within spec on arrival.

Most lines of fruit are exhibiting small minor skin marks, some with light bat/bird marking; neck creases and a presence of sap stains. Colour was generally good though all three Coles stores visited had a high percentage of semi-condition fruit on display. Aldi stock tended to have a higher percentage of fruit with dull bloom. Signage continued to be displayed in both Coles and Woolworths stores alerting their customers of the impact of cold winter temperatures on bananas during growth resulting in a dull bloom, yet fruit is still sweet to eat.

Retail ticket pricing in Queensland on bananas varied between the major supermarkets with Aldi offering fruit at $3.49/kg; Coles with fruit ticketed at $3.50-$4/kg and Woolworths at $3.00/kg in the stores visited this week.

RETAIL SNAPSHOT OF BANANAS

Below: Coles Fairfield, Garden City and Cooparoo Displays

Cavendish was priced at $3.50/kg, with Kids 750g banded clusters at $3.50/kg. Quality across stores was quite good though some clusters found with sooty mould, bronzing and minor skin marking.
Lady Fingers were on special at $5.50/kg. Red Tips at $5.50/kg.

Below: Aldi Acacia Ridge, Garden City and Cooparoo Displays

Stores had Cavendish @ $3.49/kg. A small percentage of fruit that was of semi colour condition present. Overall Aldi stores had the highest presence of fruit with dull bloom and generally a higher percentage of small minor skin marks.
Lady Finger bananas were priced @ $4.99/kg

Below: Woolworths Acacia Ridge, Garden City and Cooparoo Displays

Woolworths had Cavendish bananas priced at $3.00/kg, Lil Sana kids banded clusters at $2.50. Displays were generally well presented with most stores utilizing the new bright shelf strips which highlight for customer stock that is ready to eat now and stock that will be ready in a couple of days - a little minor neck damage and bronzing observed in some stores.
Lady fingers were priced at $6.90/kg
Red tips were priced at $4.00/kg

August 19, 2021

2021-Week 33

August 19, 2021/ Paul Wilson

QUICKLINKS

Avocado Overview

Banana Overview

AVOCADO OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

The figures released this week saw Central Qld maintaining the lead in terms of avocado production accounting for 40% of the total harvest of some 422,996 trays last week; followed by Central NSW with 15%; South Qld at 15%; WA at 14% and Tristate at 10%. The remaining 6% came from a combination of the following regions Sunshine Coast, Tamborine; Northern Rivers and North Qld. This production figure represents a 13% decrease on week prior and was 4% lower than what was forecast for this week. All major supermarkets are selling premium Hass at $0.99- $1.00 per piece, whilst independents were selling class one fruit also for $1.00/piece. It is hoped that with pricing reset at this piece rate that sales will enliven. Within the markets, avocado sales for premium trays are in the range of $12 -$22/tray depending upon size and quality of each line, the top of $22 is weakening and expected to be a top of $20/tray by next week. Pricing for class one fruit (main sales) is ranging $5 --$12 per tray; whilst the bulk market has been experiencing prices for premium in the range of $5 (2nds) --$26/ctn depending upon grade, quality and count size.

The national production of Hass this week is forecast to be in the vicinity of 420,000 - 430,000 trays and then the forecast shows a slight increase per week for the next three weeks. You will note that WA have contributed 14% of the national volume this week which equates to approximately 60,000 trays. The weather in the south west corner of WA has been better this week with isolated showers, morning temps ranging 4.2-9.9C and daytime temps of 16.4 to 23.8C. This is a welcome change to the last few weeks in preparation for the upcoming harvest.

Avocado display presentation in Qld stores this week was generally pleasing with the appearance of some new usage signage with simple ideas for customers.

Price in all three major supermarkets has dropped back to $1 a piece - so we are hoping this stimulates consumer appetites for a few extra avocados in their shopping baskets this week. In terms of Hass retail pricing in Qld shelf prices were as follows: Aldi Qld had Hass back at $0.99ea; Coles Qld had Hass ticketed at $1.00 each; and Woolworths Qld had prominently positioned instore displays of Hass also ticketed at $1.00 ea. The majority of fruit on shelves, whilst having developing skin colour was found to be just yielding to firm. Ideal really.

Prepack formulations on offer by all major supermarkets provide an opportunity to move greater volumes in a single purchase. Aldi were offering their 6 piece nets on special at $5.49 ea; Coles had their 5 piece pack at $5.00 ea and 1kg I’m Perfect packs selling at $4.00ea; whilst Woolworths had the 5 pack on offer for $5.00 and the 1kg Odd Bunch ticketed at a super $3.50/bag.

SUPERMARKET & MARKET PRICING FOR NEXT WEEK

RETAIL SNAPSHOTS OF AVOCADOS

Below: Coles Sunnybank Hills, Garden City and Browns Plains Displays

Coles stores had Hass avocados priced at just $1.00ea.
Stores had 5 piece packs at $5.00 and Garden City store had 1kg I’m Perfect packs at $4.00 each.

Below: Aldi Sunnybank Hills, Garden City and Browns Plains Displays

Hass @ $1.19ea at Sunnybank Hills but 99c each everywhere else and 6 piece Hass nets at $5.49.
All fruit was well stocked and of good quality with minimal bruising/damage - light nodule damage present on some lines.
Fruit on display was between 6 and 14 days old.

Below: Woolworths Sunnybank Hills, Garden City and Browns Plains Displays

Most stores had Hass avocados at $1.00ea on Wednesday - a presence of minor skin marking on a few lines and a good mix of maturity on offer in some of these stores.
Fruit age 11 to 15 days old.
5 piece packs at $5.00/ pack and 1kg Odd Bunch ticketed at $3.90ea
One prepack had a significant amount of damage>

BANANA OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

In the past week the morning temperatures have cooled with a range of 13.3 to 19.9C across the major growing regions in North Qld; whilst day time temperatures have ranged 23 to 27C Both Innisfail and Tully have received more rain this week with a total of 106mm for Innisfail and 82mm for Tully across the week; whilst Walkamin districts received a total of 4mm/day so far this week. With the continuation of rather mild weather, there has not been a great deal of change with respect to bunch age this week - so we are still ranging 16-17 weeks on farm. Growth rates are steady, with not a great deal of change expected until the weather heats up and they day lengthens.

The national cut for last week was just shy of 502K cartons. This figure represented a decrease of 2.96% on the previous week. The national cut for this week is expected to be similar, within a range of 500-510K cartons. Our harvest team continue to be proactively cutting fruit that is slightly thinner in girth in order to prevent too much bronzing damage - we are continuing to grade out 10-15% with heavier marking.

Most lines of fruit are exhibiting small minor skin marks, some with light bat/bird marking; neck creases and a presence of sap stains. Colour was generally good. Aldi stock tended to have a higher percentage of fruit with dull bloom. Signage found on display in both Coles and Woolworths stores alerting their customers of the impact of cold winter temperatures on bananas during growth resulting in a dull bloom, yet fruit is still sweet to eat.

Retail ticket pricing in Queensland on bananas varied between the major supermarkets with Aldi offering fruit at $3.99/kg; Coles with fruit ticketed at $3.50/kg and Woolworths at $4.00/kg in the stores visited this week.

RETAIL SNAPSHOT OF BANANAS

Below: Coles Sunnybank Hills, Garden City and Browns Plains Displays

Cavendish was priced at $3.50/kg, with Kids 750g banded clusters at $3.50/kg. Quality across stores was quite good though some clusters found with sooty mould, bronzing and minor skin marking.
Lady Fingers were on special at $5.50/kg. Red Tips at $5.50/kg.

Below: Aldi Sunnybank Hills, Garden City and Browns Plains Displays

Stores had Cavendish @ $3.99/kg. A small percentage of fruit that was of semi colour condition present. Overall Aldi stores had the highest presence of fruit with dull bloom and generally a higher percentage of small minor skin marks.
Lady Finger bananas were priced @ $6.99/kg

Below: Woolworths Sunnybank Hills, Garden City and Browns Plains Displays

Woolworths had Cavendish bananas priced at $3.50-4.00/kg depending upon store location. Lil Sana kids banded clusters at $2.50. Displays were generally well presented with most stores utilizing the new bright shelf strips which highlight for customer stock that is ready to eat now and stock that will be ready in a couple of days - a little minor neck damage and bronzing observed in some stores.
Lady fingers were priced at $7.90/kg - some clusters with rub marking
Red tips were priced at $5.00/kg

August 16, 2021

2021-Week 32

August 16, 2021/ Paul Wilson

QUICKLINKS

Avocado Overview

Banana Overview

AVOCADO OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

The figures released this week saw Central Qld maintaining the lead in terms of avocado production accounting for 48% of the total harvest of some 487,057 trays last week; followed by Central NSW with 14%; South Qld at 11%; WA at 10% and North Qld/Tristate with 7% each. The remaining 4% came from a combination of Sunshine Coast, Tamborine and Northern Rivers. This production figure represents a 14% increase on week prior and was 13% higher than what was forecast for this period. All major supermarkets are selling premium Hass at $1.19- $1.40 per piece, whilst independents were selling class one fruit at $1.00-$1.50/piece. Within the markets, avocado sales for premium trays are in the range of $12 -$22/tray depending upon size and quality of each line, the top of $22 is weak and expected to come back next week. Pricing for class one fruit (main sales) is ranging $6 --$12 per tray; whilst the bulk market has been experiencing prices for premium in the range of $5 (2nds) --$26/ctn depending upon grade, quality and count size.

The national production of Hass this week is forecast to be in the vicinity of 440,000 - 450,000 trays and then the forecast shows a the quantity to be produced each week gradually increasing in the next three to four week period. You will note that WA have contributed 10% of the national volume this week which equates to approximately 49,000 trays - this is just the start of what has been touted to be their biggest season on record. The weather in the south west corner of WA has continued to cause some headaches with a hail storm in the past week with an estimated loss of 4-5 pieces per tree - still not significant in relation to the overall size of the crop but with more rain and storms forecast we are ever on the alert.

Presentation in Qld stores this week was generally pleasing.

Prepack formulations on offer by all major supermarkets offer an opportunity to move greater volumes in a single purchase. Aldi were offering their 6 piece nets on special at $5.99 ea; Coles had their 5 piece pack at $5.00 ea and 1kg I’m Perfect packs selling at $4.00ea; whilst Woolworths had the 5 pack on offer for $5.50 and the 1kg Odd Bunch ticketed at a super $3.90-$4.90/bag.

Price has remained relatively steady with a $0.10-$0.20 up/down piece rate movement noted this week in some stores. In terms of Hass retail pricing in Qld shelf prices were as follows: Aldi Qld had Hass back at $1.19ea; Woolworths Qld had prominently positioned instore displays of Hass ticketed at $1.20-$1.30 ea; whilst Coles in Qld had Hass at a piece price of $1.20- $1.40each. The ripeness of fruit on shelves varied this week with some stores with a presence of ripe to overripe fruit; but the majority of displays had fruit that would be ready to eat the next or two.

SUPERMARKET & MARKET PRICING FOR NEXT WEEK

RETAIL SNAPSHOTS OF AVOCADOS

Below: Coles Springwood, Garden City and Cooparoo Displays

Coles stores had Hass avocados priced at just $1.20ea.
Stores had 5 piece packs at $5.00 and 1kg I’m Perfect packs at $4.00 each.

Below: Aldi Springwood, Garden City and Cooparoo Displays

Hass @ $1.19ea and 6 piece Hass nets at $5.99.
All fruit was well stocked and of good quality with minimal bruising/damage - light nodule damage present on some lines.
Fruit on display was between 6 and 14 days old.

Below: Woolworths Springwood, Garden City and Cooparoo Displays

Most stores had Hass avocados at $1.20ea on Wednesday - a presence of minor skin marking on a few lines and a good mix of maturity on offer in some of these stores.
Fruit age 11 to 15 days old.
5 piece packs at $5.50/ pack and 1kg Odd Bunch ticketed at $3.90 - $4.90ea depending upon store location.

BANANA OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

In the past week the morning temperatures have cooled with a range of 8 to 20.1C across the major growing regions in North Qld; whilst day time temperatures have ranged 21 to 27.8C. The lows of 8-10.4C were mainly experienced in Innisfail and Tully who also experienced light rainfall with between 10-16mm for the week. These low temps will see a little more development of dull bloom in the weeks to come. Mareeba was relatively dry in the last week; whilst Walkamin districts received a total 28mm across the week. With the continuation of rather mild weather, there has not been a great deal of change with respect to bunch age this week - so we are still ranging 16-17 weeks on farm. Growth rates can be best described as being steady at this stage of the season.

The national cut for last week was a little over 517K cartons. This figure represented an increase of 7.7% on the previous week. The national cut for this week is expected to be similar, within a range of 480-500K cartons. Our harvest team continue to be proactively cutting fruit that is slightly thinner in girth in order to prevent too much bronzing damage - we are continuing to grade out 10-15% with heavier marking.

There were a few stores with low stock levels this week when we visited - this may be related to the time of the visit, perhaps stores waiting on delivery of stock. Overall colour was generally good and whilst there is a presence of dull bloom fruit, it is not excessive which relates directly to the rather mild winter we have had in North Qld to date. Signage was again found on display in both Coles and Woolworths stores alerting their customers of the impact of cold winter temperatures on bananas during growth resulting in a dull bloom, yet fruit is still sweet to eat.

Retail ticket pricing in Queensland on bananas varied between the major supermarkets with Aldi offering fruit at $3.99/kg; both Coles and Woolworths at $4.00-$4.50/kg in the stores visited this week.

RETAIL SNAPSHOT OF BANANAS

Below: Coles Springwood, Garden City and Cooparoo Displays

Cavendish was priced at $4.50/kg, with Kids 750g banded clusters at $4.50/kg. Quality across stores was quite good though some clusters found with sooty mould, bronzing and minor skin marking.
Lady Fingers were $7.90/kg. Red Tips at $5.50/kg.
Some stores were seriously lacking in stock (9:40 am), could be waiting on arrivals

Below: Aldi Springwood, Garden City and Cooparoo Displays

Stores had Cavendish @ $3.99/kg. A small percentage of fruit that was of semi colour condition present.
Lady Finger bananas were priced @ $6.99/kg

Below: Woolworths Springwood, Garden City and Cooparoo Displays

Woolworths had Cavendish bananas priced at $4.00-4.50/kg depending upon store location. Lil Sana kids banded clusters at $2.50. Displays were generally well presented with most stores utilizing the new bright shelf strips which highlight for customer stock that is ready to eat now and stock that will be ready in a couple of days - a little minor neck damage and bronzing observed in some stores.
Lady fingers were priced at $7.90/kg - some clusters with rub marking
Red tips were priced at $5.90/kg

July 30, 2021

2021-Week 30

July 30, 2021/ Paul Wilson

QUICKLINKS

Avocado Overview

Banana Overview

AVOCADO OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

The figures released this week saw Central Qld maintaining the lead in terms of avocado production accounting for 52% of the total harvest of some 401,961 trays last week; followed by North Qld with 24%; South Qld at 10%; Central NSW 6% and WA at 5%. The remaining 3% came from a combination of the following regions Sunshine Coast, Tamborine; Northern Rivers and Tristate. This production figure represents an 6% increase on week prior and was 12% higher than what was forecast for this period. All major supermarkets are selling premium Hass at $1.19- $1.50 per piece, whilst independents were selling class one fruit at $1.00/piece. Sales have slowed somewhat this week in stores - this may be due to the slight ticket price increase or due to the fact that there are still a number of locations in lockdown. Within the markets, avocado sales for premium trays are in the range of $14 -$24/tray depending upon size and quality of each line, the top of $24 is rare, the true top price being within $20-$22 for most sales. Pricing for class one fruit (main sales) is ranging $6 --$15 per tray; whilst the bulk market has been experiencing prices for premium in the range of $5 (2nds) --$28/ctn depending upon grade, quality and count size.

The national production of Hass this week is forecast to be in the vicinity of 390,000 - 400,000 trays and then the forecast shows a slight increase by approximately 10-20K per week for the next three weeks. This would tend to indicate pricing will remain relatively stable at this point with no further increases, if anything in the next 3-4 weeks it will start trending down again.

Presentation in Qld stores this week was generally pleasing. The humble Hass avocado is the star attraction as it appears that the Gmax has almost completed its season with a display being found in one store only this week during our visits.

Prepack formulations on offer by all major supermarkets offer an opportunity to move greater volumes in a single purchase. Aldi were offering their 6 piece nets on special at $4.99 ea; Coles had their 5 piece pack at $4.90 ea and 1kg I’m Perfect packs selling at $3.90ea; whilst Woolworths had the 5 pack on offer for $5.90 and the 1kg Odd Bunch ticketed at a super $3.90/bag.

Price has moved up marginally this week in some stores. In terms of Hass retail pricing in Qld shelf prices were as follows: Aldi Qld had Hass back at $1.19ea; Woolworths Qld had prominently positioned instore displays of Hass ticketed at $1.20-$1.50 ea; whilst Coles in Qld had Hass at a piece price of $1.20 each. The majority of fruit on shelves is firm, with a low level of fruit that can be selected to eat that day or the next.

SUPERMARKET & MARKET PRICING FOR NEXT WEEK

RETAIL SNAPSHOTS OF AVOCADOS

Below: Coles Carindale, Greenslopes, Coomera Displays

Coles stores had Hass avocados priced at just $1.20ea. Fruit found with packed dates of 15th July through to 20th July which meant fruit was 8 to 13 days old.
Stores had 5 piece packs at $5.90 and 1kg I’m Perfect packs at $3.90 each.

Below: Aldi Carindale, Drewvale, Coomera Displays

Stores stocked either Purpleskin or Freshmax (Dorian Fruit) Hass @ $1.19ea and 6 piece Hass nets at $5.49.
All fruit was well stocked and of good quality with minimal bruising/damage - light nodule damage present on some lines.
Fruit on display was between 6 and 14 days old.

Below: Woolworths Carindale, Greenslopes, Coomera and Oxenford Displays

Most stores had Hass avocados at $1.20-$1.50ea on Wednesday - a presence of minor skin marking on a few lines and a good mix of maturity on offer in some of these stores. Odd bruised piece found.
Fruit age 11 to 15 days old.
5 piece packs at $4.90 to $5.90/ pack and 1kg Odd Bunch ticketed at $3.90 - $4.90ea depending upon store location.

INDEPENDENT STORE - Westfield Coomera

Count 18 Hass @ $1.00 each, packed 19th July making them 9 days old- Rockridge Own - Class one 18’s.

BANANA OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

In the past week the morning temperatures have cooled with a range of 10.5 to 17.2C across the major growing regions in North Qld; whilst day time temperatures have ranged 25 to 32.8C Mareeba, Innisfail and Tully have all been relatively dry in the last week; whilst Walkamin districts received a total of 4-5mm/day across the week. With the continuation of rather mild weather, there has not been a great deal of change with respect to bunch age this week - so we are still ranging 16-17 weeks on farm. Growth rates are steady, fruit is taking a little longer to fill out and we expect the bunch age to push out by a further week as the overnight/morning temps continue to drop.

The national cut for last week was a little over 419K cartons. This figure represented an increase of 7.31% on the previous week. The national cut for this week is expected to be similar, within a range of 395-420K cartons. Our harvest team continue to be proactively cutting fruit that is slightly thinner in girth in order to prevent too much bronzing damage - we are continuing to grade out 10-15% with heavier marking.

There was a noticeable difference between lines on shelf this week at the major supermarkets - some lines with heavy bronzing on some clusters; others with a presence of bruising, light sap staining and minor skin marking. Colour was generally good. Signage found on display in both Coles and Woolworths stores alerting their customers of the impact of cold winter temperatures on bananas during growth resulting in a dull bloom, yet fruit is still sweet to eat.

Retail ticket pricing in Queensland on bananas varied between the major supermarkets with Aldi offering fruit at $3.49-$3.99/kg; both Coles and Woolworths at $3.50-$4.50/kg in the stores visited this week.

RETAIL SNAPSHOT OF BANANAS

Below: Coles Carindale, Greenslopes, Coomera Displays

Cavendish was priced at $4.50/kg, with Kids 750g banded clusters at $4.50/kg. Quality across stores was quite good though some clusters found with sooty mould, bronzing and minor skin marking.
Stores had Winter Banana Update notices up for customers relating to dull bloom at this time of year.
Lady Fingers were $7.90/kg. Red Tips at $5.00/kg.

Below: Aldi Carindale and Drewvale Displays

Stores had Cavendish @ $3.99/kg , again some bruising and skin scarring and minor neck damage present. A higher percentage of fruit that was of semi colour condition present.
Lady Finger bananas were priced @ $6.99/kg

Below: Woolworths Carindale, Greenslopes, Coomera and Oxenford Displays

Woolworths had Cavendish bananas priced at $2.50-3.50/kg depending upon store location. Lil Sana kids banded clusters at $2.50. Displays were generally well presented with most stores utilizing the new bright shelf strips which highlight for customer stock that is ready to eat now and stock that will be ready in a couple of days - a little minor neck damage and bronzing observed in some stores.
Lady fingers were priced at $7.90/kg - some clusters with rub marking. Red Tips ticketed at $5.00/kg.

INDEPENDENT STORE

Cavendish Bananas @ $2.99/kg
Stacked, therefore some marking

July 23, 2021

2021-Week 29

July 23, 2021/ Paul Wilson

QUICKLINKS

Avocado Overview

Banana Overview

AVOCADO OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

This week we finally saw Central Qld taking the lead in terms of avocado production accounting for 57% of the total harvest of some 378,624 trays last week; followed by North Qld with 23%; South Qld at 8%; Sunshine Coast, Northern Rivers and Tristate supplied a combined 8% and the remaining 4% came from Tamborine and Norther Rivers. This production figure represents an 11% decrease on week prior and as 11% increase on what was forecast for this period. This decrease in production has been followed by a slight tightening of pricing with most premium sizes enjoying an increase of up $2-$3 per tray. All major supermarkets are currently selling premium Hass at $1.19- $1.30 per piece, and whilst this continues to represent exceptional value, most have noticed a slight decline in sales. Avocado market sales for premium trays are in the range of $12 -$20/tray. Pricing for class one fruit (main sales) is ranging $6 --$10 per tray; whilst the bulk market has been experiencing prices for premium in the range of $5 --$28/ctn depending upon grade, quality and count size.

The national production of Hass this week is forecast to be considerably lighter in the vicinity of 350,000 - 365,000 trays and then the forecast shows a slight decrease by approximately 10K per week for the next three weeks thereafter so pricing may firm up further depending upon customer purchase patterns and demand. As a guide, we are aiming for all harvesting of North Qld avocados to be finalised either this coming week or first full week of August to ensure a home on a supermarket shelf. If you believe you will still need additional time, please let us know as soon as possible and provide an indication of volumes yet to be harvested, so that we can discuss this with buyers.

Price has continued to be the driving factor whilst volumes are high. In terms of Hass retail pricing in Qld shelf prices were as follows: Aldi Qld had Hass back at $1.19ea; Woolworths Qld had prominently positioned instore displays of Hass and Greenskin Gmax Avos ticketed at $1.20-$1.30 ea for Hass and $2.00 ea on the Gmax; whilst Coles in Qld had Hass at a piece price of $1.20 ea whilst similarly selling the Greenskin Gmax Avos at $2.00 each.

SUPERMARKET & MARKET PRICING FOR NEXT WEEK

RETAIL SNAPSHOTS OF AVOCADOS

Below: Coles Garden City, Toombul and Carindale Displays

Coles stores had Greenskins Gmax Avos priced at $2 ea and Hass avocados priced at just $1.00ea. Fruit found with packed dates of 10th July through to 16th July which meant fruit was 7 to 12 days old.
Stores had 5 piece packs at $4.90 and 1kg I’m Perfect packs at $3.90 each.

Below: Aldi Garden City, Toombul and Carindale Displays

Stores stocked either Purpleskin or Freshmax (Dorian Fruit) Hass @ $1.19ea and 6 piece Shepard nets at $4.99.
All fruit was well stocked and of good quality with minimal bruising/damage - light nodule damage present on some lines.
Fruit on display was between 6 and 14 days old.

Below: Woolworths Garden City, Nundah and Carindale Displays

Most stores had Greenskins Gmax Green skin avos @$2 ea and Hass avocados at $1.30ea on Wednesday - a presence of nodule damage on most lines in varying degrees. Odd bruised piece found.
Fruit age 11 to 15 days old.
5 piece packs at $5.90/ pack and 1kg Odd Bunch ticketed on special this week at $3.90ea.

INDEPENDENT STORE

Hass @ 2 for $4.00

BANANA OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

In the past week the morning temperatures varied greatly but we have had our first morning field temp of 10C or just below (9.5C) which is renowned for being at what point we will start to see a wider impact of underpeel discoloration or greying of the sub dermal layers of the banana skin which reflects as an outward dull colour. Morning temps across the major growing regions in North Qld have ranged 9.5-20C whilst day time temperatures have ranged 24.8 to 31.6C Mareeba, Innisfail and Tully have all been relatively dry in the last week; whilst Walkamin districts received a total of 30mm across the week. With the continuation of rather mild weather, there has not been a great deal of change with respect to bunch age this week - so we are still ranging 16-17 weeks on farm.

The national cut for last week was a little over 390K cartons. This figure represented a slight decrease of 1.1% on the previous week. The national cut for this week is expected to be similar, within a range of 390-410K cartons. Our harvest team continue to be proactively cutting fruit that is slightly thinner in girth in order to prevent too much bronzing damage - we are continuing to grade out 10-15% with heavier marking.

Retail ticket pricing in Queensland revealed Aldi leading the way on price, this may have been in response to local independent operators offering fruit at similiar price points. The offer varied between the major supermarkets with Aldi offering fruit at $2.99/kg; both Coles and Woolworths at $3.50-$4.00/kg in the stores visited in Qld this week.

RETAIL SNAPSHOT OF BANANAS

Below: Coles Garden City, Toombul and Carindale Displays

Cavendish was priced at $3.50/kg, with Kids 750g banded clusters at $3.50/kg. Quality across stores was quite good though some clusters found with sooty mould, bronzing and minor skin marking.
Stores had Winter Banana Update notices up for customers relating to dull bloom at this time of year.
Lady Fingers were $7.90/kg. Red Tips at $5.00/kg.

Below: Aldi Garden City, Toombul and Carindale Displays

Stores had Cavendish @ $2.99/kg , again some bruising and skin scarring and minor neck damage present. A higher percentage of fruit that was of semi colour condition present.
Lady Finger bananas were priced @ $6.99/kg

Below: Woolworths Garden City, Nundah and Carindale Displays

Woolworths had Cavendish bananas priced at $2.50-3.50/kg depending upon store location. Lil Sana kids banded clusters at $2.50. Displays were generally well presented with most stores utilizing the new bright shelf strips which highlight for customer stock that is ready to eat now and stock that will be ready in a couple of days - a little minor neck damage and bronzing observed in some stores.
Lady fingers were priced at $7.90/kg - some clusters with rub marking. Red Tips ticketed at $5.50/kg.

INDEPENDENT STORE

NQ Cavendish Bananas @ $1.49/kg
Stacked, significant marking and around 40% green

July 18, 2021

2021-Week 28

July 18, 2021/ Paul Wilson

QUICKLINKS

Avocado Overview

Banana Overview

AVOCADO OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

This week North Qld again supplied the majority of avocado production accounting for 52% of the total harvest of some 423,281 trays last week; followed by Central Qld with 39%; and the remaining 8% came from combined regions of South Qld; Sunshine Coast, Tamborine, Northern Rivers and Tristate made a start. This production figure represents a 23% increase on week prior and also a 7% increase on what was forecast for this period. Despite the national production increasing for last week, the markets remain relatively tidy with a slight tightening of pricing. All major supermarkets are selling premium Hass at $1- $1.20 per piece, which from a customer’s perspective continues to represent exceptional value. Avocado market sales for premium trays are in the range of $11 -$18/tray. Pricing for class one fruit (main sales) is ranging $6 --$10 per tray; whilst the bulk market has been experiencing prices for premium in the range of $5 --$28/ctn depending upon grade, quality and count size.

The national production of Hass this week is forecast to be considerably lighter in the vicinity of 340,000 - 350,000 trays and then the forecast shows a slight decline each week for the next three weeks thereafter so pricing may firm up a little more.

Presentation in Qld stores this week varied. The humble Hass avocado is still the main attraction though both Coles and Woolworths have continued with having presence of Greenskin’s Gmax avocado at a higher ticket price than the Hass. What continues to be missing at all stores during this time of price promotion is a percentage of the display that is ripe and ready for use - the majority of fruit continues to be firm and will still require another 2 to 3 days before it is ready to enjoy which in some cases will equate to lost sales opportunities, especially for the new category purchaser, who may be tempted by the current low prices.

Prepack formulations on offer by all major supermarkets offer an opportunity to move greater volumes in a single purchase. Aldi were offering their 6 piece nets on special at $4.99 ea; Coles had their 5 piece pack at $4.90 ea and 1kg I’m Perfect packs selling at $5.50ea; whilst Woolworths had the 5 pack on offer for $4.90 and the 1kg Odd Bunch ticketed at a super $3.90/bag.

Price has continued to be the driving factor whilst volumes are high. In terms of Hass retail pricing in Qld shelf prices were as follows: Aldi Qld had Hass back at $0.99ea featuring in their catalogue this week as a full page feature; Woolworths Qld had prominently positioned instore displays of Hass and Greenskin Gmax Avos ticketed at $1.00 ea for Hass and $2.00 ea on the Gmax; whilst Coles in Qld had Hass at a piece price of $1 ea whilst similarly selling the Greenskin Gmax Avos at $2.00 each.

SUPERMARKET & MARKET PRICING FOR NEXT WEEK

RETAIL SNAPSHOTS OF AVOCADOS

Below: Coles Forest Lake, Sunnybank Hills and Mt Ommaney Displays

Coles stores had Greenskins Gmax Avos priced at $2 ea and Hass avocados priced at just $1.00ea. There was some poor quality fruit on show in a couple of the stores visited this week. Fruit found with packed dates of 30th June through to 7th July which meant fruit was 7 to 14 days old.
Stores had 5 piece packs at $4.90 and 1kg I’m Perfect packs at $5.50 each.

Below: Aldi Forest Lake, Sunnybank Hills and Mt Ommaney Displays

Stores stocked either Purpleskin or Freshmax (Dorian Fruit) Hass @ $0.99ea and 6 piece Shepard nets at $4.99.
All fruit was well stocked and of good quality with minimal bruising/damage - light nodule damage present on some lines.
Fruit on display was between 6 and 14 days old.

Below: Woolworths Forest Lake, Sunnybank Hills and Mt Ommaney Displays

Most stores had Greenskins Gmax Green skin avos @$2 ea and Hass avocados at $1.00ea on Wednesday - a presence of nodule damage on most lines in varying degrees. Odd bruised piece found.
Fruit age 11 to 15 days old.
5 piece packs at $4.90/ pack and 1kg Odd Bunch ticketed on special this week at $3.90ea.

BANANA OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

The weather in the past week has been a touch cooler with early morning temperatures ranging 14.6-20.5C whilst day time temperatures have ranged 21.5 to 28C Mareeba has been relatively dry; whilst Tully and Innisfail experienced heavier rainfalls late last week in the vicinity of 50-78mm respectively but drier since and Walkamin districts have experienced daily showers of 3-4mm - the rain is helping keep it a little warmer. Colder temperatures are forecast for late July, early August which is when we may see a heavier presence of underpeel chill. With the continuation of rather mild weather, there has not been a great deal of change with respect to bunch age this week - so we are still ranging 16-17 weeks on farm.

The national cut for last week was approximately 5.4% lower than the previous week at a total of 395K cartons. The national cut for this week is expected to be similar, within a range of 390-410K cartons. Our harvest team continue to be proactively cutting fruit that is slightly thinner in girth in order to prevent too much bronzing damage - we are continuing to grade out 10% with heavier marking.

There was a noticeable difference between lines on shelf this week at the major supermarkets - some lines with heavy bronzing on some clusters; others with a presence of light sooty mould and minor bruising. Colour was generally good. Signage found on display in both Coles and Woolworths stores alerting their customers of the impact of cold winter temperatures on bananas during growth resulting in a dull bloom, yet fruit is still sweet to eat.

Retail ticket pricing in Queensland was fairly uniform with cavendish retail tickets fundamentally at $3.50/kg. The offer varied between the major supermarkets with Aldi offering fruit at $3.49/kg; both Coles and Woolworths at $3.50/kg in the stores visited in Qld this week.

RETAIL SNAPSHOT OF BANANAS

Below: Coles Forest Lake, Sunnybank Hills and Mt Ommaney Displays

Cavendish was priced at $3.50/kg, with Kids 750g banded clusters at $3.50/kg. Quality across stores was quite good though some clusters found with sooty mould, bronzing and minor skin marking.
Stores had Winter Banana Update notices up for customers relating to dull bloom at this time of year.
Lady Fingers were $7.90/kg. Red Tips at $5.00/kg.

Below: Aldi Forest Lake, Sunnybank Hills and Mt Ommaney Displays

Stores had Cavendish @ $3.49/kg , again some bruising and skin scarring and minor neck damage present. A higher percentage of fruit that was of semi colour condition present.
Lady Finger bananas were priced @ $6.99/kg

Below: Woolworths Forest Lake, Sunnybank Hills and Mt Ommaney Displays

Woolworths had Cavendish bananas priced at $3.50-4.50/kg depending upon store location. Lil Sana kids banded clusters at $2.50 but minimal stock of this line found. Displays were generally well presented with most stores utilizing the new bright shelf strips which highlight for customer stock that is ready to eat now and stock that will be ready in a couple of days - a little minor neck damage and bronzing observed in some stores.
Lady fingers were priced at $7.90/kg - some clusters with rub marking. Red Tips ticketed at $5.50/kg as were organic bananas.

July 06, 2021

2021-Week 26

July 06, 2021/ Paul Wilson

QUICKLINKS

Avocado Overview

Banana Overview

AVOCADO OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

This week North Qld again supplied the majority of avocado production accounting for 53% of the total harvest of some 421,358 trays last week; followed by Central Qld with 43%; and the remaining 4% came from combined regions of South Qld; Sunshine Coast, Tamborine and Northern Rivers made a start. This production figure represents a 6% increase on week prior and also an 11% increase on what was forecast for this period. As of today, there is still a significant volume of fruit in all markets and we expect current pricing to be maintained. All major supermarkets are selling premium Hass at $1- $1.20 per piece, which from a customer’s perspective continues represents astounding value. Avocado market sales for premium trays are in the range of $11 -$16/tray. Pricing for class one fruit (main sales) is ranging $4 --$7 per tray; whilst the bulk market has been experiencing prices for premium in the range of $5 --$20/ctn depending upon grade, quality and count size.

The national production of Hass this week is forecast to be in the vicinity of 370,000 - 380,000 trays and then is forecast to be in the vicinity of 370-390K/week in the following fortnight.

Presentation in Qld stores this week was somewhat mixed both in terms of quality and stock availability with Brisbane and Townsville entering lockdown from 6pm Tuesday 28th June for three days. The humble Hass avocado is still the main attraction though both Coles and Woolworths have continued with having presence of Greenskin’s Gmax avocado at a higher ticket price than the Hass. What continues to be missing at all stores during this time of price promotion is a percentage of the display that is ripe and ready for use - the majority of fruit continues to be firm and will still require another 2 to 3 days before it is ready to enjoy which in some cases will equate to lost sales opportunities, especially for the new category purchaser, who may be tempted by the current low prices.

This week we again saw activity amongst the Prepack formulations on offer by all major supermarkets with an opportunity to move greater volumes in a single purchase. Aldi were offering their 6 piece nets on special at $4.99 ea; Coles had their 5 piece pack at $4.50 ea and 1kg I’m Perfect packs selling at $5.50ea; whilst Woolworths had the 5 pack on offer for $5.00 and the 1kg Odd Bunch ticketed at a super $3.90/bag.

Price has continued to be the driving factor whilst volumes are high. In terms of Hass retail pricing in Qld shelf prices were as follows: Aldi Qld had Hass back at $0.99ea; Woolworths Qld had prominently positioned instore displays of Hass and Greenskin Gmax Avos ticketed at $1.00 ea for Hass and $2.00 ea on the Gmax; whilst Coles in Qld had Hass at a piece price of $1 ea meanwhile selling the Greenskin Gmax Avos at $2.00 each.

SUPERMARKET & MARKET PRICING FOR NEXT WEEK

RETAIL SNAPSHOTS OF AVOCADOS

Below: Coles Sunnybank Hills, Browns Plains and Cooparoo Displays

Coles stores had Greenskins Gmax Avos priced at $2 ea and Hass avocados priced at just $1.00ea. There was some poor quality fruit on show in a couple of the stores visited this week. Fruit found with packed dates of 18th June through to 22nd June which meant fruit was 7 to 11 days old.
Stores had 5 piece packs at $4.50 and 1kg I’m Perfect packs at $5.50 each.

Below: Aldi Sunnybank Hills, Browns Plains and Cooparoo Displays

Stores stocked either Purpleskin or Freshmax (Dorian Fruit) Hass @ $0.99ea and 6 piece Shepard nets at $4.99.
All fruit was well stocked and of good quality with minimal bruising/damage - light nodule damage present on some lines.
Fruit on display was between 7 and 15 days old.

Below: Woolworths Sunnybank Hills, Browns Plains and Cooparoo Displays

Most stores had Greenskins Gmax Green skin avos @$2 ea and Hass avocados at $1.00ea on Wednesday - a presence of nodule damage on most lines in varying degrees.
5 piece packs at $5.00/ pack and 1kg Odd Bunch ticketed on special this week at $3.90ea.

Woolworths cooparoo had a great display - tinaroo falls fruit

BANANA OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

The weather in the past week had been relatively dry until Wednesday and Thursday which has seen 140 to 190mm fall across the two days around Innisfail and Tully whilst Mareeba and Walkamin districts have experienced just 1-3mm on a daily basis. The temperature range for this last week was a touch warmer with early temps experienced ranging 14.6 to 21.1C across the region; whilst daytime temperatures ranged between 23 to 27.1C. There has not been a great deal of change with respect to bunch age this week as the weather has been milder.

The national cut for last week was approximately 5% higher than the previous week at a total of 408K cartons, so supply can be said to be relatively steady by way of comparison. The national cut for this week is expected to be similar, within a range of 390-410K cartons. Our harvest team continue to be proactively cutting fruit that is slightly thinner in girth in order to prevent too much bronzing damage - we are continuing to grade out 10% with heavier marking. We are still harvesting fruit with 16-17 weeks bunch age.

Quality on shelf this week showed a degree of improvement with less minor skin marking overall, colour was generally good (some stores with too much of the semi-colour or “Eat Later” rather than the eat now on offer) though starting to see the presence of some dull bloom clusters throughout. Signage found on display in both Coles and Woolworths stores alerting their customers of the impact of cold winter temperatures on bananas during growth resulting in a dull bloom, yet fruit is still sweet to eat.

Retail ticket pricing in Queensland is indicative of the continued shorter supply with cavendish retail tickets still at or above $4/kg though Aldi had pulled back their price point. The offer varied between the major supermarkets with Aldi offering fruit at $3.49/kg; Woolworths at $4.50/kg; whilst Coles had pulled back their ticket price to $4.00 - $4.50/kg in the stores visited in Qld this week.

RETAIL SNAPSHOT OF BANANAS

Below: Coles Sunnybank Hills, Browns Plains and Cooparoo Displays

Cavendish was priced at $4.00/kg, with Kids 750g banded clusters also at $4/kg. Quality across stores was quite mixed - a percentage with heavier skin marking; some clusters with dull appearance.
Stores had Winter Banana Update notices up for customers relating to dull bloom at this time of year.
Lady Fingers were $6.90/kg.
Old promo signage still on display at Browns Plains - former promo whereby every kg of bananas sold on Saturday 1st May Coles donated 10c to Little Athletics Australia.

Below: Aldi Sunnybank Hills, Browns Plains and Cooparoo Displays

Stores had Cavendish @ $3.49/kg , again slight skin marking, rub and sap staining
Lady Finger bananas were priced @ $6.99/kg

Below: Woolworths Sunnybank Hills, Browns Plains and Cooparoo Displays

Woolworths had Cavendish bananas priced at $4.00-4.50/kg depending upon store location. Lil Sana kids banded clusters at $2.50 but minimal stock of this line found. Displays were generally well presented with most stores utilizing the new bright shelf strips which highlight for customer stock that is ready to eat now and stock that will be ready in a couple of days - a little minor neck damage and bronzing observed in some stores.
Lady fingers were priced at $7.90/kg - some clusters with rub marking. Red Tips ticketed at $5.50/kg as were organic bananas.

June 19, 2021

2021-Week 24

June 19, 2021/ Paul Wilson

QUICKLINKS

Avocado Overview

Banana Overview

AVOCADO OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

This week North Qld again supplied the majority of avocado production accounting for 53% of the total harvest of some 415,925 trays last week; followed by Central Qld with 45%; and the remaining 2% came from combined regions of South Qld; Sunshine Coast and Tristate made a start. This production figure represents a 3% increase on week prior and also a 9% increase on what was forecast for this period. As of today, there is still a significant volume of fruit in all markets and we expect current pricing to be maintained. All major supermarkets are selling premium Hass at $1- $1.20 per piece, which from a customer’s perspective continues represents astounding value. Avocado market sales for premium trays are in the range of $12 -$16/tray. Pricing for class one fruit (main sales) is ranging $5 --$10 per tray; whilst the bulk market has been experiencing prices for premium in the range of $5 --$25/ctn depending upon grade, quality and count size.

The national production of Hass this week is forecast to be in the vicinity of 353,000 - 360,000 trays and then is forecast to be in the vicinity of 370-380K/week in the following fortnight.

Presentation in Qld stores this week was somewhat mixed in terms of quality; whilst there is a strong focus on the Hass variety as the main display, there was a continued presence of Greenskin’s Gmax avocado varietal in all three majors and in most instances the Gmax was at a higher ticket price than the Hass. What is missing at all stores during this time of price promotion is a percentage of the display that is ripe and ready for use - majority of fruit is firm and will still require another 2 to 3 days before it is ready to enjoy which in some cases will equate to lost sales opportunities, especially for the new category purchaser, who may be tempted by price; but do not know enough about the fruit.

This week we saw more activity amongst the Prepack formulations on offer by all major supermarkets with an opportunity to move greater volumes in a single purchase. Aldi were offering their 6 piece nets on special at $5.99 ea; Coles had their 5 piece pack at $4.50-$4.90 ea and 1kg I’m Perfect packs selling at $3.90ea; whilst Woolworths had the 5 pack on offer for $5.00 and the 1kg Odd Bunch ticketed at just $4.90 to $5.50/bag. Despite very keen pricing on most of these lines, there were a lot of packs marked down suggesting customers were opting for the larger loose options - hence orders for these lines have reduced.

Price has continued to be the driving factor whilst volumes are high. In terms of Hass retail pricing in Qld shelf prices were as follows: Aldi Qld had Greenskin Gmax Avos and Hass back at $0.99ea; Woolworths Qld had prominently positioned instore displays of Hass and Greenskin Gmax Avos ticketed at $1.20 ea for Hass and $2.00 ea on the Gmax; whilst Coles in Qld had a multi buy deal of 3/$3.00 or a piece price of $1.20ea meanwhile selling the Greenskin Gmax Avos at $2.00 each.

Avocados Australia are continuing their marketing campaign with the airing of “Our Green Gold” television commercials through until the end of June which are being supported by social media, digital advertising and public relations activity. Remember each and everyone of as part of this vibrant and growing industry needs to be actively promoting consumption and ideas for use in whatever way we can.

SUPERMARKET & MARKET PRICING FOR NEXT WEEK

RETAIL SNAPSHOTS OF AVOCADOS

Below: Coles Garden City, Chermside and Miranda (NSW) Displays

Coles stores had Greenskins Gmax Avos priced at $2 ea and Hass avocados priced at just $1.20ea or 3 for $3. There was some poor quality fruit on show in a couple of the stores visited this week which appeared to be a result of age.
Stores had 5 piece packs at $4.50 to $5.50 depending upon location.

Below: Aldi Garden City, Chermside and Miranda (NSW) Displays

Stores stocked NQ Greenskins GMax Avos @ $0.99 -$1.29ea, Hass @ $0.99 and 6 piece Shepard at $5.99.
All fruit was well stocked and of good quality with minimal bruising/damage - light nodule damage present on some lines.
Most lines packed between 1st and 8th June - meaning fruit on display was between 8 and 15 days old.

Below: Woolworths Garden City, Chermside and Miranda (NSW) Displays

Most stores had Greenskins Gmax Green skin avos @$2 ea and Hass avocados at $1.20-$2.00ea on Wednesday - a presence of nodule damage on most lines in varying degrees.
5 piece packs at $5.50/ pack and 1kg Odd Bunch ticketed at $4.90ea.
Most lines packed 27th May through to 3rd June meaning fruit was between 13 to 20 days old.

BANANA OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

The weather in the past week has seen a few drizzles of rain around Innisfail and Tully with falls of 8-12 mm across the week with dry weather experienced around Innisfail and Walkamin. The temperature range for this last week was a touch warmer with almost a 10C difference between the coolest and warmest early temps experienced ranging 12 to 21.5C throughout these regions and daytime temperature ranges of 22.1 to 29.6C. There has not been a great deal of change with respect to bunch age this week as the weather has been milder.

The national cut for last week was 1.13% higher than the previous week at 363K cartons so supply is again still a little tight. It is expected to be similar next week, within a range of 360-380K cartons. Our harvest team continue to be proactively cutting fruit that is slightly thinner in girth in order to prevent too much bronzing damage - we are continuing to grade out 10-15% with heavier marking. We are continuing to harvest fruit with 16-17 weeks bunch age and are also continuing to packing out approximately 10-12% of our crop as large fruit (200-220mm) currently.

Quality on shelf this week showed a degree of improvement with less minor skin marking overall, colour was generally good and bloom overall generally still bright though it won’t be long until the fruit is showing the effects of our cooler winter growing conditions.

Retail ticket pricing in Queensland is indicative of the shorter supply with cavendish retail tickets still at or above $4/kg. The offer varied between the major supermarkets with Aldi offering fruit at $4.49/kg; Woolworths at $4.50/kg; whilst Coles had pulled back their ticket price to $4.00/kg in the stores visited in Qld and NSW this week.

RETAIL SNAPSHOT OF BANANAS

Below: Coles Garden City, Chermside and Miranda(NSW) Displays

Cavendish was priced at $4.00-$4.50/kg depending upon location, with Kids 750g packs also at $4 - $4.50/kg.
Lady Fingers were $7.90/kg across stores.
In stores visited this week colour development was better, still a presence of with scarring, bat marking, rub marking and sap staining evident. The odd cluster found with dull bloom.

Below: Aldi Garden City, Chermside and Miranda (NSW) Displays

Stores had Cavendish @ $4.49/kg , again slight skin marking, rub and sap staining
Lady Finger bananas were priced @ $6.99/kg

Below: Woolworths Garden City, Chermside and Miranda(NSW) Displays

Woolworths had Cavendish bananas priced at $4.50-4.90/kg depending upon store location. Lil Sana kids banded clusters at $2.50 but minimal stock of this line found. Displays were generally well presented with most stores utilizing the new bright shelf strips which highlight for customer stock that is ready to eat now and stock that will be ready in a couple of days - a little minor neck damage and skin scarring observed.
Chermside had some fruit that was quite dull and even had the very early stages of crown end mould which suggests this fruit is old.
Lady fingers were priced at $7.90/kg - a little bronzing evident on some clusters.

June 08, 2021

2021-Week 22

June 08, 2021/ Paul Wilson

QUICKLINKS

Avocado Overview

Banana Overview

AVOCADO OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

This week we see Central Qld take the lead in avocado production accounting for 53% of the total harvest of some 314,471 trays last week; followed by North Qld with 45%; and the remaining 2% came from combined regions of South Qld and Sunshine Coast. This production figure represents a 34% decrease on week prior and a 15% increase on what was forecast for this period. This is as a direct result of North Qld growers electing not to pick as a result of the volume that was and is already in the market and the impact that has had on price - as stated last week we had been hearing rumours that a number of agents had instructed growers to stop picking until some of the volume had cleared and this seems to have been actioned. As of today, there is still a significant volume of fruit in all markets and we expect current pricing to be maintained. We have seen trays advertised in Victoria this week at just $5.00/tray by independent retailers. Coles and Aldi are both selling Hass at $1 per piece, Woolies were at $1.50ea for Australian Hass on Wednesday when we visited stores and by the end of the week, they too had joined the $1 a piece race - from a customer’s perspective this represents astounding value but it is yet to be seen if sales increase significantly. Avocado market sales for premium trays are in the range of $12 -$16/tray. Pricing for class one fruit (main sales) is ranging $5 --$10 per tray; whilst the bulk market has been experiencing prices for premium in the range of $5 --$30/ctn depending upon grade, quality and count size.

The national production of Hass this week was forecast to be in the vicinity of 355,000 - 360,000 trays and then is forecast to lift to 362K and then 370K per week in the following fortnight and yet there has been a further increase to 403K trays which follows the week of lighter harvest in the far North, so the situation is really no better with heavy supplies expected for the next few weeks. What is important during times of heavy supply is ensuring we haves sales for all premium lines which we have secured and perhaps even more important, making sure quality within the premium lines is of a high standard as there is plenty of choice and lots of offers on price being made to the chains.

Presentation in Qld stores this week was mixed in terms of quality; whilst there is a strong on the Hass variety as the main display, there was a continued presence of Greenskin’s Gmax avocado varietal in all three majors and in most instances the Gmax was at a higher ticket price than the Hass. What the specials on Hass this week have highlighted at store level is a presence of older fruit, some quite ripe and many with nodule damage, rots, some dehydration and sun bleaching as you will see in the images captured.

This week we saw more activity amongst the Prepack formulations on offer by all major supermarkets with an opportunity to move greater volumes in a single purchase. Aldi were offering their 6 piece nets on special at $4.99 ea; Coles had their 5 piece pack at $5.50 ea and 1kg I’m Perfect packs selling at $6.90ea; whilst Woolworths had the 5 pack on offer for $6.50 and the 1kg Odd Bunch ticketed at just $5.50/bag. There is a heavy supply of small fruit for these prepacks within the supply chain so these prices are expected to come back further as are the sell prices to the chains on these lines as you will see in the confirmed pricing below for this coming week.

It has definitely been a week of one where price has been the driving factor! In terms of Hass retail pricing in Qld shelf prices were as follows: Aldi Qld had Greenskin Gmax Avos either $0.99 or $1.49 depending upon location and Hass at an advertised, catalogue featured piece price of $0.99ea; Woolworths Qld had prominently positioned instore displays of Hass and Greenskin Gmax Avos ticketed at $1.50 ea for Hass and $2.00 ea on the Gmax; whilst Coles in Qld went out strong with radio advertising of the Hass promo at $1 per piece meanwhile selling the Greenskin Gmax Avos at $2.00 each.

Avocados Australia are continuing their marketing campaign with the airing of “Our Green Gold” television commercials through until the end of June which are being supported by social media, digital advertising and public relations activity. Keep a look out for anything Green and Gold that avocados could declare governance over or at least be associated with! We need as an industry to be actively promoting consumption and ideas for use in whatever way we can.

SUPERMARKET & MARKET PRICING FOR NEXT WEEK

RETAIL SNAPSHOTS OF AVOCADOS

Below: Coles Indooroopilly, Garden City and Kenmore Displays

Coles stores had Greenskins Gmax Avos priced at $2 ea and Hass avocados priced at just $1.00ea. There was some poor quality fruit on show in a couple of the stores visited this week which appeared to be a result of age.
Stores had 5 piece packs at $5.50

Below: Aldi Indooroopilly, Garden City and Kenmore Displays

Stores stocked NQ Greenskins GMax Avos @ $0.99 - $1.49ea, Hass @ $0.99 and 6 piece Shepard at $4.99. With Hass at $0.99 ea these were on promo in the Aldi weekly catalogue and featured in two locations within the stores.

All fruit was well stocked and of good quality with minimal bruising/damage - odd piece found with bruise/body rot or sun blemish.

Below: Woolworths Indooroopilly, Garden City and Kenmore Displays

Most stores had Greenskins Gmax Green skin avos @$2 ea and Hass avocados at %1.50-$2.00ea on Wednesday - a presence of nodule damage on most lines of hass to varying degrees. By Thursday Woolworths had also pulled back their ticket price.
5 piece packs at $6.50/ pack

BANANA OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

The weather in the past week has seen more rain fall across all North Qld growing regions from last Monday to this Thursday - the heaviest falls across this day range include 75mm around Tully; 64mm Innisfail; 43 mm Mareeba and between 2-5mm/day at Walkamin. The temperature range has also continued to cool with morning temperatures ranging 12.5 to 19.1C and daytime temperature ranges of 22.0 to 25.9C. With the cooling of the seasonal weather this slows the growth rate and pushes the average bunch age out as fruit takes a little longer to form and reach maturity. When field temperatures drop below 10C is when we normally start seeing underpeel discolouration which results in fruit appearing somewhat dull - this is as a result of temporary sap flow cessation in the colder growing conditions.

The national cut for last week was just shy of 400K cartons so supply is relatively steady. It is expected to be similar next week within a range of 390-420K cartons. Our harvesting team continue to be proactively cutting fruit that is slightly thinner in girth in order to prevent too much bronzing damage - we are currently seeing in the vicinity of 10-15% with heavier marking being graded out. With the cooling of overnight and morning temperatures and slightly shorter days we will see production slow somewhat in the coming weeks - we are now harvesting fruit with 16-17 weeks bunch age. We know when we are packing out more large fruit (200-220mm) that winter is upon us - we are packing somewhere close to 10% of our crop as large currently. Our packing crew in the shed have been vigilant in continuing to grade out excessive bat scratching and visible bronzing defects to ensure fruit is within spec on arrival to our customers.

Quality on shelf this week was again varied - some lines presented very well with minimal marking with good colour and bloom; whilst others were dull, with evidence of bronzing, sap staining, rub marking, neck damage and of course still a little bat/bird marking as you see in the photos below.

Retail ticket pricing in Queensland is indicative of the shorter supply with cavendish retail tickets still all above $4/kg. The offer varied between the major supermarkets with Aldi offering fruit at $4.49/kg; Woolworths at $4.50/kg and Coles offering fruit at $4.50 to $4.90/kg dependent upon the store locality.

RETAIL SNAPSHOT OF BANANAS

Below: Coles Indooroopilly, Garden City and Kenmore Displays

Cavendish was priced at $4.50-$4.90/kg depending upon location, with Kids 750g packs also at $4.90/kg.
Lady Fingers were $7.90/kg across stores.
In stores visited this week colour development was better, still a presence of with scarring, bat marking, rub marking and sap staining evident. The odd cluster found with dull bloom.

Below: Aldi Indooroopilly, Garden City and Kenmore Displays

Stores had Cavendish @ $4.49/kg apart from the Garden City store which had them priced at $4.29, again slight skin marking, rub and sap staining
Lady Finger bananas were priced @ $6.99/kg

Below: Woolworths Indooroopilly, Garden City and Kenmore Displays

Woolworths had Cavendish bananas priced at $4.50-4.90/kg depending upon store location. Lil Sana kids banded clusters at $4.50 but minimal stock of this line found. Displays were generally well presented with fruit that had a cleaner and in good condition - a litter minor neck damage and skin scarring observed. Howe Farming fruit was on display at the Kenmore store with a stack of cartons on the floor in front of the display which can impact customers reach when trying to select product.
Lady fingers were priced at $7.90/kg - a little bronzing evident on some clusters.

June 01, 2021

2021-Week 21

June 01, 2021/ Paul Wilson

QUICKLINKS

Avocado Overview

Banana Overview

AVOCADO OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

North Qld is not ready to let go of the lead in avocado production accounting for 56% of the total harvest of some 473,181 trays last week; followed by Central Qld with 43%; and the remaining 1% came from combined regions of South Qld and Sunshine Coast. This has been the biggest production week in North Qld’s avocado growing history to date and it represents a 3% increase on week prior and a 22% increase on what was forecast for this period. With the surge in volume of fruit in all markets, pricing has accordingly crashed and is expected to be in the teens for both premium and class one if not by late this week, then definitely by early next. Avocado market sales for premium trays last week were in the range of $20 -$24/tray. This is expected to be $14-$18/tray week starting 31st May. Pricing for class one fruit last week (main sales) has been ranging $13 --$17 per tray; whilst the bulk market has been experiencing prices for premium in the range of $30 --$40/ctn towards the end of this week and for class one and 2nd bulks $10 --$18/ctn.

Whilst a number of growers from what we have heard elected to not pick last week, or in some cases were told not to by their agents this is not unfortunately fix the problem. The situation the industry finds itself in is one that has been building over a number of weeks with a large volume of fruit stockpiled in the system and the heavy pick the week prior has exacerbated the unstable pricing situation we find ourselves in. At this time, the fruit is in a better position hanging on the tree rather than in a tray, so if you do need to pick, go steady until we see if some of the super specials on offer will help clear of some of the existing volume. Having said that, Rock Ridge Fresh has been and continues to run tidy as we provide our major customers with a volume that we intend to supply for the coming week and try to keep as close as possible to harvesting just what is needed.

Presentation in Qld stores this week was good with a greater focus on the Hass variety as the main display, but we have also seen the Greenskin Gmax avocado varietal in all three majors this week - displays seen of this variety to date do not have any consumer information pertaining to how this variety ripens or what it looks like as it ripens.

Prepack formulations continue for be a value offer and an opportunity to move greater volumes in a single purchase. Aldi were offering their 6 piece nets at $6.99 ea; Woolworths had the 5 pack on offer for $6.50 - $7.50 and the 1kg Odd Bunch ticketed at just $6 to $7/bag depending upon location; whilst Coles had both their 5 piece pack $6.50 ea and 1kg I’m Perfect packs selling at $8.90ea.

In terms of Hass retail pricing in Qld last week shelf prices were as follows: Aldi Qld had Greenskin Gmax Avos at $1.29 ea and Hass priced at a competitive $1.29 per single piece; Woolworths Qld had prominently positioned instore displays of Hass and Greenskin Gmax Avos ticketed at $1.50 ea; whilst Coles in Qld continued their offer of Greenskin Gmax Avos and Hass at $1.50 each or 4 for $5.00. Coles Avocado special was supported with initial radio and press advertising in SE Qld, NSW and Victoria.

SUPERMARKET & MARKET PRICING FOR NEXT WEEK

RETAIL SNAPSHOTS OF AVOCADOS

Below: Coles Sunnybank Hills, Garden City and Sunnybank Displays

Coles stores had Greenskins Gmax Avos and Hass avocado varieties priced at $1.50 or 4 for $5.00 multibuy offer
Stores had 5 piece packs at $6.50

Below: Aldi Sunnybank Hills, Garden City and Drewvale Displays

Stores stocked NQ Greenskins GMax Avos @ $1.29ea, Hass @ $1.29 and 6 piece Shepard at $6.99

All fruit was well stocked and of good quality with minimal bruising/damage - odd piece found with bruise/body rot or sun blemish.
Fruit packed 14th and 15th May meaning stock is 11 to 12 days in age from harvest date.

Below: Woolworths Sunnybank Hills, Garden City and Parkinson Displays

Most stores had Greenskins Gmax Green skin avos and Hass avocados at $1.50ea - a presence of nodule damage on most lines of hass to varying degrees.
5 piece packs at $6.50/ pack

BANANA OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

The national cut for last week pushed just over 400,543 cartons which was an increase of 6.89% or some 25,827 cartons on the week prior. The weather in the past week has seen rainfall in a number of regions across all North Qld - the heaviest falls ranging 10 to 24mm per day in the last week particularly in Innisfail and Tully; 5mm per day in Walkamin and isolated showers around Mareeba. The temperatures have continued to be milder with morning temperatures ranging 15 to 21.2C and daytime temperature ranges of 20.6 to 27.5C. With the cooling of the seasonal weather this slows the growth rate and pushes the average bunch age out, we are now harvesting at 16 weeks and expect this to push out to 17 weeks in another week or so. National production is expected to be within the region of 390 to 415,000 cartons this coming week.

Whilst there is still a presence of bat marking, it is significantly less and we are pleased to say that finally we believe we have turned a corner towards better quality fruit. The harvesting team have been proactively cutting fruit slightly thinner in order to prevent bronzing damage and as already stated average bunch age is now at 16 weeks. With the cooling of overnight and morning temperatures and slightly shorter days we will see production slow somewhat in the coming weeks. Our packing crew in the shed have been vigilant in continuing to grade out excessive bat scratching and visible bronzing defects to ensure fruit is within spec on arrival to our customers.

Quality on shelf this week was varied - some lines presented very well with minimal marking and good colour; whilst others were dull, with evidence of bronzing, sap staining, rub marking, neck damage and of course still a little bat/bird marking as you do doubt see in the photos included.

Retail ticket pricing in Queensland is indicative of the shorter supply we have experienced in relation to cavendish with all majors on sell ticket price on or above $4/kg. The offer varied between the major supermarkets with Aldi offering fruit at $4.49/kg; Woolworths at $4.00 to $4.90/kg and Coles offering fruit at $4.30 to $4.90/kg dependent upon the store locality.

RETAIL SNAPSHOT OF BANANAS

Below: Coles Sunnybank Hills, Garden City and Sunnybank Displays

Cavendish was priced at $4.50-$4.90/kg depending upon location, with Kids 750g packs also at $4.90/kg and Red Tips at $5/kg.
Lady Fingers were $7.90/kg across stores.
Quite a lot of stock at the stores visited this week a percentage of which was of semi colour condition; some clusters with scarring, rub marking and sap staining evident. Bloom varied, some clusters quite dull in appearance.

Below: Aldi Sunnybank Hills, Garden City and Drewvale Displays

All stores had Cavendish @ $4.49/kg, again skin marking, rub and sap staining with a percentage of the fruit having a dull appearance and being backward
Lady Finger bananas were priced @ $6.99/kg

Below: Woolworths Sunnybank Hills, Garden City and Parkinson Displays

Woolworths had Cavendish bananas priced at $4.50-4.90/kg depending upon store location. Lil Sana kids banded clusters at $4.50. Displays generally presented better and fruit was cleaner with better condition - there was a degree of skin marking, little bat/bird damage and some semi-condition fruit.
Lady fingers were priced at $7.90/kg

May 21, 2021

2021-Week 20

May 21, 2021/ Paul Wilson

QUICKLINKS

Avocado Overview

Banana Overview

AVOCADO OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

North Qld is not ready to let go of the lead in avocado production accounting for 63% of the total harvest of some 459,180 trays last week; followed by Central Qld with 36%; and the remaining 1% came from combined regions of South Qld and Sunshine Coast. This production figure represents a 15% increase on week prior and a 9% increase on what was forecast for this period. The volume of fruit in all markets has significantly increased and pricing has and is coming back quickly. Australian Hass are now truly in season with other available varietals in much lower volumes; with hass production figures accounting for 89% of the avocados that were harvested this week. Avocado market sales for premium trays are in the range of $20 -$26/tray (note the top is closer to $24, few sales of very good quality at $26). Pricing for class one fruit (main sales) is ranging $14 --$18 per tray; whilst the bulk market has been experiencing prices for premium in the range of $40 --$50/ctn towards the end of this week and for class one and 2nd bulks $10 --$18/ctn.

The production of Hass this week is forecast to be in the vicinity of 390,000 trays and then is forecast to lift to 413K and then 406K per week in the following fortnight. Dry matter test results conducted in the last week are ranging 22.1 to 25.3% on medium to large fruit - we are continuing to pick accordingly only fruit from blocks that have returned dry matter results that exceed 23%.

In terms of Hass retail pricing in Qld shelf prices were as follows: Aldi Qld had Greenskin Gmax Avos and Hass priced at a competitive $1.49 per single piece; Woolworths Qld had prominently positioned instore displays of Hass and Greenskin Gmax Avos ticketed at $1.50 ea to $2.00 ea depending upon store location; whilst Coles in Qld continued their offer of Greenskin Gmax Avos and Hass at $1.80 each or 3 for $5.00. Coles is running a late week special with radio and press advertising supporting with an offer of Hass 4 for $5.00 - this special is on offer in SE Qld, NSW and Victoria.

Whilst the current market situation may appear a little gloomy with the volume of fruit available and the decline in pricing, it is pleasing to see that Avocados Australia have commenced their marketing campaign with the launch of “Our Green Gold” commercial bursting onto television screens now through until the end of June which will be supported by social media, digital advertising and public relations all of which aim to increase awareness and consumption. In addition to this, the major chains each have their own marketing strategies planned for moving increased volumes through this period.

SUPERMARKET & MARKET PRICING FOR NEXT WEEK

COLES HOT OFFER - AUSTRALIAN HASS AVOCADOS 4 FOR $5 LATE WEEK SPECIAL COMMENCING 21-05-21 THRU TO mONDAY IN QLD, NSW AND VIC - SUPPORTED BY RADIO AND NEWSPAPER ADVERTISING

RETAIL SNAPSHOTS OF AVOCADOS

Below: Coles Garden City, Springwood and Carindale Displays

Coles stores had Greenskins Gmax Avos and Hass avocado varieties priced at $1.80 or 3 for $5.00 multibuy offer
Stores had 5 piece packs at $8.90 and the 1kg I’m Perfect net were selling at $8.90/unit.
As seen above, Coles are running a late week special in SE Qld, NSW and Vic on new season Hass 4 for $5 which is being supported with newspaper and radio advertising. Special commences in stores today 21/05 and continue through to Monday at this stage.

Below: Aldi Garden City, Springwood and Carindale Displays

Stores stocked NQ Greenskins GMax Avos @ $1.49ea, Hass @ $1.49 and 6 piece Shepard at $6.99

All fruit was well stocked and of good quality with minimal bruising/damage - odd piece found with bruise/body rot or sun blemish.

Below: Woolworths Garden City, Springwood and Carindale Displays

Most stores had Greenskins Gmax Green skin avos and Hass avocados at $1.50ea - a presence of nodule damage on most lines of hass to varying degrees.
5 piece packs at $7.50/ pack and 1kg Odd Bunch for $7.00!
New season Australian Hass header cards herald the start of the Hass season not all stores had erected these as yet.

BANANA OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

The national cut for last week pushed just over 374,000 cartons which was a very much needed increase of 29% or some 84,000 cartons on the week prior. The weather in the past week has seen minimal rain fall across all North Qld growing regions - the heaviest falls ranging 6 to 20mm per day in the last three days particularly in Innisfail and Tully. The temperatures have continued to be milder with morning temperatures ranging 13 to 21.1C and daytime temperature ranges of 23 to 28.8C. With the cooling of the seasonal weather this slows the growth rate and pushes the average bunch age out, we are now harvesting at 16 weeks and expect this to push out to 17 weeks in another week or so. National production is expected to be within the region of 340 to 360,000 cartons this week.

RETAIL SNAPSHOT OF BANANAS

Below: Coles Garden City, Springwood and Carindale Displays

Cavendish was priced at $4.30-$4.90/kg depending upon location, with Kids 750g packs also at $4.30/kg.
Lady Fingers were $7.90/kg across stores.
Quite a lot of stock at the stores visited this week that were more on the backward side in terms of colour development, with scarring, rub marking and sap staining evident. A few lines also found with sooty mould. Some very dull unappealing fruit found in a few stores.

Below: Aldi Garden City, Springwood and Carindale Displays

All stores had Cavendish @ $4.49/kg, again skin marking, rub and sap staining with a percentage of the fruit having a dull appearance and being backward
Lady Finger bananas were priced @ $6.99/kg

Below: Woolworths Garden City, Springwood and Carindale Displays

Woolworths had Cavendish bananas priced at $4.00- $4.90/kg depending upon store location. Lil Sana kids banded clusters at $4.50. Displays generally presented better and fruit was cleaner with better condition - there was a degree of skin marking, little bat/bird damage and some semi-condition fruit.
Lady fingers were priced at $7.90/kg
Stores also stocked Red tip variety, ticketed at $5.50/kg and Organic variety at $5.90/kg

May 10, 2021

2021-Week 18

May 10, 2021/ Paul Wilson

QUICKLINKS

Avocado Overview

Banana Overview

AVOCADO OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

Central Qld took the lead in avocado production accounting for 51% of the total harvest of some 260,413 trays last week; followed by North Qld with 48.5%; and the remaining 0.5% came from combined regions of Central NSW; South Qld and Sunshine Coast. Whilst this production figure represents a 29% increase on week prior it was also 6.8% lower than forecast for this period. Pricing continues to be quite stable within the market place. Australian Hass are now pipping Shepard production figures accounting for 51% of the avocados that were harvested this week. Avocado market sales for premium trays are in the range of $24 -$30/tray, with Hass trays at the upper band of this range. Pricing for class one fruit (main sales) is ranging $16 --$20 per tray; whilst the bulk market has been experiencing prices for premium in the range of $42 --$50/ctn towards the end of this week and for class one and 2nd bulks $10 --$27/ctn.

North Qld Shepard avocados are forecast to be lighter again this week with around 60,000 trays forecast. The forecast for the next two week period shows the tray volume dropping to 30K and then 17K as this season for this variety is nearing its end. Conversely the production of Hass this week was forecast to be 286,000 trays and then is forecast to lift to 308K and then 320K for the following fortnight. These figures will be impacted by local weather conditions - isolated showers have been experienced this week, but weather has been much drier which is pleasing. Dry matter test results conducted to date are ranging 21.2 to 26.4% on medium to large fruit - we are continuing to pick accordingly only fruit from blocks that have dry matter results that exceed 23%. The longer term forecast is for further rain - so harvesting may be interrupted from time to time, but we will keep you all abreast of developments on a week-by-week basis.

Presentation in Qld stores this week was again generally good with fruit having good shape and glossy skins -most major retailers are still stocking shepards with changeover to Hass next week. Aldi were stocking Greenskins AvoMax range and this fruit was ticketed as Avocado Greenskins selling at $1.79 each - fruit was very firm, but presented well. They were also stocking the Purpleskin Hass also selling at $1.79 each.

Prepack formulations continue for be a value offer and an opportunity to move greater volumes in a single purchase. Aldi were offering their 6 piece nets at $7.49 to $7.79 ea; Woolworths had the 5 pack on offer for $6.50 and the 1kg Odd Bunch ticketed at just $7/bag whilst Coles had both their 5 piece pack and 1kg I’m Perfect packs selling at $8.90ea.

In terms of Shepard retail pricing in Qld shelf prices were as follows: Aldi Qld had Shepard and Hass priced at a competitive $1.79 per single piece (NB their Cooparoo store still had fruit ticketed at $1.59ea); Woolworths Qld had prominently positioned instore displays of Shepards ticketed between $1.80 ea to $2.00 ea depending upon store location; whilst Coles in Qld continued their offer of Shepards $1.80 each or 3 for $5.00. Coles at Redbank Plains had shifted their table top display to just inside the store entry, front and centre.

Avocados Australia have commenced their marketing campaign with the launch of “Our Green Gold” commercial bursting onto television screens now through until the end of June which will be supported by social media, digital advertising and public relations.

SUPERMARKET & MARKET PRICING FOR NEXT WEEK

RETAIL SNAPSHOTS OF AVOCADOS

Below: Coles Cooparoo, Redbank Plains and Forest Lake Displays

Coles stores had Shepard avocado variety priced at $1.80 at one store or multibuy 3 for $5.00 everywhere else
Stores had 5 piece packs at $8.90 and the 1kg I’m Perfect net were selling at $8.90/unit - all packs contained Shepards.

Below: Aldi Cooparoo, Redbank Plains and Forest Lake Displays

Stores stocked NQ Greenskins GMax Avos @ $1.79ea, Hass @ $1.79 and 6 piece Shepard at $7.79

All fruit was well stocked and of good quality with minimal bruising/damage - odd piece found with bruise/body rot or sun blemish.

Below: Woolworths Cooparoo, Goodna and Forest Lake Displays

All stores had Shepard avocados at $2.00ea - a degree of bruising and rots amongst bottom layers of stock.
5 piece packs at $7.50/ pack and 1kg Odd Bunch for $7.00!
Note Woolworths Goodna shoppers had a “Hass Season has started” notification on the back of their shopper dockets.

BANANA OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

The national banana cut last week decreased again by a further 73,000 cartons to a total of 333,516 cartons harvested. The weather in the past week has seen continued dried up a little in comparison to the last couple of weeks but continued to cool off particularly overnight and early mornings in North Qld. Temperatures have been milder with minimum temperatures ranging 13.1-21.9C and maximum day temps of 23.2 to 28.8C. Rainfall since last Wednesday has seen Walkamin receive a further 10mm; Mareeba a further 1mm; Tully another 65mm; and Innisfail another 59mm falling in isolated showers in each region. With the cooling of the seasonal weather the average bunch age will push out, we are now harvesting at 16 weeks and expect this to push out to 17 weeks. National production is expected to be within the region of 350 to 370,000 cartons this week.

Whilst there is still a presence of bat marking, it is significantly less and we are pleased to say that finally we believe we have turned a corner towards better quality fruit. We have been cutting fruit slightly thinner in order to prevent bronzing damage and as already stated average bunch age is now at 16 weeks. With the cooling of overnight and morning temperatures and slightly shorter days we will see production slow somewhat in the coming weeks. We are continuing to grade out excessive bat scratching and visible bronzing defects to ensure fruit is within spec on arrival to our customers. At Banana Congress next week, we are hoping there is a discussion around how we as individual farmers and as an industry can deal with the damage caused by the bats.

Quality on shelf this week was varied - some lines presented very well with minimal marking and good colour, others dull, with bronzing, sap staining and of course some bat/bird marking as you do doubt see in the photos included.

Retail ticket pricing in Queensland for cavendish varied between the major supermarkets with Aldi offering fruit at $3.99/kg; Woolworths at $3.50 to $3.90/kg and Coles offering fruit at$3.90/kg dependent upon the store locality.

RETAIL SNAPSHOT OF BANANAS

Below: Coles Cooparoo, Redbank Plains and Forest Lake Displays

Cavendish was priced at $3.90 - $4.0/kg, with Kids 750g packs also at $3.90
Lady Fingers were $7.90/kg across stores.
Quite a lot of stock was slightly backward, with scarring, rub marking and sap staining evident.

Below: Aldi Cooparoo, Redbank Plains and Forest Lake Displays

All stores had Cavendish @ $3.49-$3.99/kg, again skin marking, rub and sap staining with a percentage of the fruit having a dull appearance.
Lil Snackers packs were priced at $3.29/kg
Lady Finger bananas were priced @ $6.99/kg

Below: Woolworths Cooparoo, Goodna and Forest Lake Displays

Woolworths had Cavendish bananas priced at $3.50/kg and Lil Sana kids banded clusters at the same price - there was a degree of skin marking, little bat/bird damage, sooty mould and a fairly high percentage of backward fruit
Lady fingers were priced at $7.90/kg
Stores also stocked Red tip variety, ticketed at $5.00/kg and Organic variety at $5.00/kg

May 04, 2021

2021-Week 17

May 04, 2021/ Paul Wilson

QUICKLINKS

Avocado Overview

Banana Overview

AVOCADO OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

North Qld maintains the lead in avocado production accounting for 55% of the total harvest of some 201,877 trays last week; followed by Central Qld with 43%; and the remaining 2% coming from combined regions of Central NSW; South Qld and Sunshine Coast. Whilst this production figure represents a 29% decrease on last week it has to be expected with the weather conditions that have prevailed over the last 7 to 10 days. Pricing continues to be quite stable within the market place. Australian Shepard main sales for premium are in the range of $20 -$30/tray. Pricing for class one fruit (main sales) is ranging $14 --$20 per tray; whilst the bulk market has been experiencing prices for premium in the range of $40 --$45/ctn and for class one and 2nd bulks $10 --$30/ctn.

North Qld Shepard avocados are forecast to be lighter again this week with around 100,000 to 120,000 trays forecast. The forecast for the next two week period shows the tray volume dropping to 70K and then 30K as this season for this variety is nearing its end. Conversely the production of Hass this week was forecast to be 128,000 trays and then is forecast to lift to 250K and then 290K for the following fortnight. These figures will be impacted by local weather conditions - rain was present at the beginning of this week with some farms, including our own, electing not to harvest during the wet to minimise the development of nodule damage. However, whilst not beaming sunshine, the weather has improved slightly and has been fine since Wednesday so we have commenced our 2021 Hass harvest. Dry matter test results conducted to date are ranging 21.4 to 25.1% on large fruit - so farms are spot picking large fruit from a few blocks. The longer term forecast is for further rain - so harvesting may be interrupted from time to time, so keep us informed of your harvest plans.

Presentation in stores this week was again generally good with Shepards having good shape and glossy skins. We did find a few count 28’s that were a little misshapen and a few with either bruises or rots.

Prepack formulations offer a great opportunity for both the retailer and the customer alike - offering real value and an opportunity to move greater volumes in a single purchase. Aldi were offering their 6 piece nets at $7.49 ea; Woolworths had the 5 pack on offer for $7.50 and the 1kg Odd Bunch ticketed at just $7/bag whilst Coles had both their 5 piece pack and 1kg I’m Perfect packs selling at $8.90ea.

In terms of Shepard retail pricing in Qld shelf prices were as follows: Aldi Qld price was the most competitive at $1.79 per single piece; Woolworths Qld had prominently positioned instore displays of Shepards ticketed between $1.80 ea to $2.00 ea depending upon store location; whilst Coles in Qld continued their offer of Shepards $2 each or 3 for $5.00. It should also be noted that a couple of the Aldi stores visited had commenced stocking new season Hass supplied by Purple Skins - this fruit as you will see in photos had noticeable nodule damage (it had obviously been picked whilst the fruit has been wet) and was rock hard - ticket price was $1.59 each.

SUPERMARKET & MARKET PRICING FOR NEXT WEEK

RETAIL SNAPSHOTS OF AVOCADOS

Above: Coles Beenleigh, Indooroopilly and Loganholme Displays

Coles stores had Shepard avocado variety priced at $2.00 or multibuy 3 for $5.00
Stores had 5 piece packs at $8.90 and the 1kg I’m Perfect net were selling at $8.90/unit.

Above: Aldi Beenleigh, Indooroopilly and Loganholme Displays

Stores stocked NQ Shepards @ $1.79ea, Hass @ $1.59 and 6 piece Shepard at $7.49

All fruit was well stocked and of good quality with minimal bruising/damage - odd piece found with bruise/body rot.

Above: Woolworths Beenleigh, Indooroopilly and Loganholme Displays

All stores had Shepard avocados at $2.00ea - a degree of bruising and rots amongst bottom layers of stock.
5 piece packs at $7.50/ pack and 1kg Odd Bunch for $7.50!

BANANA OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

The national banana cut last week decreased by almost 38,000 cartons to a total of 406,557 cartons harvested. The weather in the past week has seen continued showery weather, overcast skies and cooler temperatures which is negatively impacting growth rates in North Qld. Temperatures have been milder with minimum temperatures ranging 17.5-22.9C and maximum day temps of 24 to 28.7C. Rainfall since last Wednesday has seen Walkamin receive a further 37mm; Mareeba a further 57mm; Tully another 340mm; and Innisfail another 380mm all of which will impact fruit bloom and will continue to hinder each farms ability to harvest so national production is expected to remain steady or possibly decline to within the range of 360,000 to 380,000 cartons this week.

On our own farm we have been dealing with continuing to grade out bat damage - this protected species has caused significant damage this year. Now in light of recent and prevailing weather we are seeing growth rates slow with average bunch age increasing from 15 weeks to 16, and if cooler, wet weather persists bunch age will very soon be out to 17 weeks - which ultimately means reduced output from the farm. The other defect we are starting to see an increase in with the wet weather and increasing bunch age is bronzing - we will most certainly be trying to grade out what is visible at time of pack, but this is a progressive defect that worsens as the fruit ripens and matures.

Quality on shelf this week has improved slightly with definitely less visible bat marking (more sporadic) , on some lines there is a presence of rust thrip damage, minor neck injuries and general skin marking including point scarring and rub.

Retail ticket pricing in Queensland for cavendish varied between the major supermarkets with Aldi offering fruit at $3.49/kg; Woolworths at $4.00/kg and Coles offering fruit between $1.99 and $3.90/kg dependent upon the store locality.

RETAIL SNAPSHOT OF BANANAS

Above: Coles Beenleigh, Indooroopilly and Loganholme Displays

Cavendish was priced at $3.50 - $4.0/kg, with Kids 750g packs also at $4.00
Lady Fingers were $7.90/kg across stores.
Quite a lot of stock was slightly backward, with scarring, rub marking and sap staining evident.

Above: Aldi Beenleigh, Indooroopilly and Loganholme Displays

All stores had Cavendish @ $3.49/kg, again skin marking, rub and sap staining with a percentage of the fruit having a dull appearance. Fruit sizing also varied significantly.
Lil Snackers packs were priced at $2.99/kg
Lady Finger bananas were priced @ $6.99/kg

Above: Woolworths Beenleigh, Indooroopilly and Loganholme Displays

Woolworths had Cavendish bananas priced at $4.00/kg and Lil Sana kids banded clusters at the same price - there was a degree of skin marking, little bat/bird damage, sooty mould and a fairly high percentage of backward fruit
Lady fingers were priced at $7.90/kg
Stores also stocked Red tip variety, ticketed at $5.00/kg and Organic variety at $5.00/kg

April 26, 2021

2021-Week 16

April 26, 2021/ Paul Wilson

QUICKLINKS

Avocado Overview

Banana Overview

AVOCADO OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

North Qld maintains the lead in production accounting for 66.8% of the total production of some 282,888 trays last week; followed by Central Qld with 31.9%; with the remaining 1% coming from Central NSW and South Qld. Whilst this production represents a 20.6% increase, this includes all varieties including Shepard ((253K), Maluma (15K) and new season Hass (13K). Pricing continues to be quite stable within the market place. Australian Shepard main sales for premium are in the range of $20 -$30/tray. Pricing for class one fruit (main sales) is ranging $14 --$20 per tray; whilst the bulk market has been experiencing prices for premium in the range of $40 --$45/ctn and for class one and 2nd bulks $10 --$30/ctn.

North Qld Shepard avocados are forecast to be lighter again next week with around 100,000 trays forecast. The forecast for the week thereafter is 70K with the season for this variety nearing its end. Conversely the production of Hass over this same two week period is forecast to lift to 134K and then 258K in the same timeframe - however these figures will not be accurate if growers haven’t updated their forecasts due to the amount of rain. Please make sure you send us your dry matter test results before you pack anything for the supermarkets as we need to share them with our retail partners. You should also be aware that Coles Victoria has purchased equipment to enable them to conduct dry matter testing on intake - so be assured that any fruit destined for Melbourne will be checked in the first few weeks of supply so we would like to avoid rejections for this by making sure our fruit is good to go from the start.

The weather in far north Queensland has not been conducive to getting a start on picking and packing our Hass avocados with rain in excess of 100-150mm on several days and lighter showers every other day - for this reason we have elected to hold off for dry weather as if me make a start the result is a higher level of nodule damage and there is also a risk of increased rots. We are hoping to commence early next week. Sadly not all growers in the region are withholding from picking in the rain.

Presentation in stores this week was again generally good with fruit having good shape and glossy skins.

Prepack formulations offer a great opportunity for both the retailer and the customer alike - offering real value and an opportunity to move greater volumes in a single purchase. Aldi were offering their 6 piece nets at $6.99 ea on special and Woolworths have utilised their prepack range this week to attract customers with the 5 pack on special for $7.50 and the 1kg Odd Bunch ticketed at just $6.50/bag.

SUPERMARKET & MARKET PRICING FOR NEXT WEEK

RETAIL SNAPSHOTS OF AVOCADOS

Above: Coles Lutwyche, Sunnybank Hills and Garden City Displays

Coles stores had Shepard avocado variety priced at $1.90 or multibuy 3 for $5.00
Stores had 5 piece packs at $8.90 and the 1kg I’m Perfect net were selling at $6.90/unit.

Above: Aldi Lutwyche, Sunnybank Hills and Garden City Displays

Stores stocked NQ Shepards @ $1.79ea and 6 piece Shepard at $6.99

All fruit was well stocked and of good quality with minimal bruising/damage - odd piece found with bruise/body rot.

Above: Woolworths Lutwyche, Sunnybank Hills and Garden City Displays

All stores had Shepard avocados at $1.80ea - a degree of bruising and rots amongst bottom layers of stock.
5 piece packs at $7.50/ pack and 1kg Odd Bunch on special for $6.50!

BANANA OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

The national banana cut last week increased by a almost 44,000 cartons to a total of 444,343 cartons harvested. The weather in the past week has been overcast and very wet in a number of areas in the far North with up to 700mm rain across a three day period; temperatures were milder with minimum temperatures ranging 16.3-22C and maximum day temps of 23 to 30.1C. This week of inclement weather will not help fruit bloom and will hinder each farms ability to harvest so national production is expected to decline somewhat to within the range of 380,000 to 400,000 cartons.

Quality on shelf this week has improved slightly with definitely less visible bat marking (more sporadic) , on some lines there is a presence of sooty mould, rust thrip damage, minor neck injuries and general skin marking including point scarring and rub.

Retail ticket pricing in Queensland for cavendish varied between the major supermarkets with Aldi offering fruit at $3.99/kg; Woolworths at $4.50/kg and Coles offering fruit at $4.00/kg dependent upon the store locality. The independent at one outlet had cavendish at $3.29/kg.

RETAIL SNAPSHOT OF BANANAS

Above: Coles Lutwyche, Sunnybank Hills and Garden City Displays

Cavendish was priced at $3.30 - $4.50/kg, with Kids 750g packs also at $3.30
Lady Fingers were $7.90/kg across stores.
Quite a lot of stock was slightly backward, with scarring, rub marking and sap staining evident. Also some very long clusters exceeding 300mm in length.

Above: Aldi Lutwyche, Sunnybank Hills and Garden City Displays

All stores had Cavendish @ $3.99/kg, again skin marking, rub and sap staining with a percentage of the fruit having a dull appearance. Fruit sizing also varied significantly.
Lil Snackers packs were priced at $3.49/kg
Lady Finger bananas were priced @ $5.99/kg

Above: Woolworths Lutwyche, Sunnybank Hills and Garden City Displays

Woolworths had Cavendish bananas priced at $3.90/kg and Lil Sana kids banded clusters at the same price - there was a degree of skin marking, little bat/bird damage, sooty mould and a fairly high percentage of backward fruit
Lady fingers were priced at $7.90/kg
Stores also stocked Red tip variety, ticketed at $5.00/kg and Organic variety at $4.90/kg

April 19, 2021

2021-Week 15

April 19, 2021/ Paul Wilson

QUICKLINKS

Avocado Overview

Banana Overview

AVOCADO OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

North Qld maintains the lead in production with their Shepard season accounting for 75% of the total production of some 234,651 last week; followed by Central Qld with 24%; with the remaining 1% coming from Central NSW. Pricing has continued its stabilised somewhat in the market place. Australian Shepard main sales for premium are in the range of $20 -$30/tray, odd $32/tray around. Pricing for class one fruit (main sales) is ranging $16 --$20 per tray; whilst the bulk market has been experiencing prices for premium in the range of $40 --$45/ctn and for class one and 2nd bulks $10 --$30/ctn.

Shepard avocados are forecast to be lighter again next week with around 150,000 to 170,000 trays expected from growing regions. The forecast for the next two week period shows the tray volume continuing to decline and Hass volumes commencing and steadily increasing with around 200,000 trays expected by first week May. Remember to send us your dry matter test results before you commence harvesting too much fruit and make sure you submit a range of fruit sizing for testing - as even the small fruit used in prepacks has to meet the maturity requirements.

Some action in the prepack market this week with Woolworths having their 1kg Odd Bunch on special @$6.50/bag and 5 piece packs at $7.50 ea in Qld. All major chains still have shepards in their prepack formulations at this stage with a changeover to Hass expected early to mid May.

In terms of Shepard retail pricing in Qld shelf prices were as follows: Aldi Qld price was a competitive $1.49 per piece; Woolworths Qld had prominently positioned instore displays of Shepards ticketed anywhere from $1.80/piece to $3.00 ea if price tickets can be believed; whilst Coles in Qld have continued to run fruit at $1.90ea or offer 3 for $5.00 on both Shepards and Maluma’s (Autumn Hass) to stimulate demand. Presentation in stores this week was generally pleasing.

SUPERMARKET & MARKET PRICING FOR NEXT WEEK

RETAIL SNAPSHOTS OF AVOCADOS

Above: Coles Carindale, Cannon Hill and Wynnum Displays

Coles stores had Count 25/28 Shepard avocado variety priced at $1.90 or multibuy 3 for $5.00
Stores had 5 piece packs at $8.90 and the 1kg I’m Perfect net were selling at $6.90/unit.
The Wynnum store had fruit with significant bruising and body rot

Above: Aldi Carindale, Cannon Hill and Wynnum Displays

Stores stocked NQ Shepards @ $1.49ea and 6 piece Shepard at $7.49. Fruit supplied by Greenskins count 23

All fruit was well stocked and of good quality with minimal bruising/damage - odd piece found with bruise/body rot.

Above: Woolworths Carindale, Cannon Hill and Wynnum Displays

All stores had Shepard avocados at $1.80ea- at Carindale and $2/3 at other stores - a degree of bruising and rots amongst bottom layers of stock.
5 piece packs at $7.50/ pack and 1kg Odd Bunch on special for $6.50!

BANANA OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

The national banana cut last week was fairly stable with just over 400,000 cartons harvested. National production is expected to be within the range of 380-410K cartons next week. The weather in the past week has been milder with minimum temperatures ranging 17.2 - 24.0C and maximum day temps of 28.1 to 32.9C. Minimal rain in the last week, though Walkamin did have 37mm for the week, though a more significant wet period is forecast for next week particularly for the Innisfail and Tully regions.

Quality on shelf this week whilst slightly improved, continues to be somewhat disappointing with dull, grey/bronzed fruit with various skin markings being a common finding particularly in Coles and Aldi stores - this is most likely as a result of recent weather conditions. Pleased to say however that there is less visible bat/bird marked fruit being seen on retail shelves. All chains had a percentage of semi-coloured or backward fruit on shelf this week.

Retail ticket pricing in Queensland for cavendish varied between the major supermarkets with Aldi offering fruit at $3.99/kg; Woolworths at $3.90/kg and Coles offering fruit at $3.30 to $4.50/kg dependent upon the store locality. As already stated, quality varied greatly with a number of lines having visible skin marking including neck damage, bat scratches, sap staining, rust thrip damage and rub marking.

RETAIL SNAPSHOT OF BANANAS

Above: Coles Carindale, Cannon Hill and Wynnum Displays

Cavendish was priced at $3.30 - $4.50/kg, with Kids 750g packs also at $3.30
Lady Fingers were $7.90/kg across stores.
Quite a lot of stock was slightly backward, with scarring, rub marking and sap staining evident. Also some very long clusters exceeding 300mm in length.

Above: Aldi Carindale, Cannon Hill and Wynnum Displays

All stores had Cavendish @ $3.99/kg, again skin marking, rub and sap staining with a percentage of the fruit having a dull appearance. Fruit sizing also varied significantly.
Lil Snackers packs were priced at $3.49/kg
Lady Finger bananas were priced @ $5.99/kg

Above: Woolworths Carindale, Cannon Hill and Wynnum Displays

Woolworths had Cavendish bananas priced at $3.90/kg and Lil Sana kids banded clusters at the same price - there was a degree of skin marking, little bat/bird damage, sooty mould and a fairly high percentage of backward fruit
Lady fingers were priced at $7.90/kg
Stores also stocked Red tip variety, ticketed at $5.00/kg and Organic variety at $4.90/kg

April 13, 2021

2021-Week 14

April 13, 2021/ Paul Wilson

QUICKLINKS

Avocado Overview

Banana Overview

AVOCADO OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

North Qld maintains the lead in production with their Shepard season accounting for 69% of the total production of some 316,000 trays last week; followed by Central Qld with 30%; with the remaining 1% coming from Central NSW. Pricing appears to have reached a period of temporary stabilisation within the market place. Australian Shepard main sales for premium are in the range of $20 -$30/tray. Pricing for class one fruit (main sales) is ranging $14 --$20 per tray; whilst the bulk market has been experiencing prices for premium in the range of $40 --$45/ctn and for class one and 2nd bulks $10 --$30/ctn.

North Qld Shepard avocados are forecast to be lighter next week around 210,000 to 220,000 trays expected from the region. The forecast for the next two week period shows the tray volume starting to decline slightly with harvests within the range of 180,000 to 220,000 per week. Some NQ farms have reportedly completed their Shepard season and are looking to commence picking their Hass from next week. The supermarkets are not looking to changeover to Hass until the first week of May, they may gradually roll a few traditional Hass into a nominated state in the last week of April. Coles have been stocking the Maluma Hass but it has been marketed as the Autumn Hass, over the last few weeks at the same price as the Shepards. Please make sure you have your Hass dry matter tested and ensure you test a sample of all sizes (including down to a count 30-36 equivalent) to ensure both the larger fruit and small fruit (used in prepack formulations) are good to go - please forward these test results to me prior to the arrival of your first consignment so that these can be shared with the chains. It was very disappointing at the start of the Shepard season, when Avocados Australia conducted some random testing of fruit on shelves for fruit maturity, to find only 7 out of 10 being mature - that means 30% were not and more importantly 30% of Australian customers who may have had a poor eating experience and therefore would not repeat purchase. Fruit maturity really is key.

In terms of Shepard retail pricing in Qld last week saw shelf prices as follows: Aldi Qld price was the most competitive at $1.79 per single piece; Woolworths Qld had prominently positioned instore displays of Shepards ticketed between $1.90 ea to $2.20 ea depending upon store location; whilst Coles in Qld had Shepards $1.90 each or 3 for $5.00. Coles ran a late week special, running Friday to Monday with 3 for $5.00 in Qld and NSW stores to stimulate demand. Prepack formulations offer a great opportunity for both the retailer and the customer alike - offering real value and an opportunity to move greater volumes in a single purchase. Coles have their 1kg I’m Perfect packs on special at $6.50 each and the Woolies at Mt Ommaney had their 1kg Odd Bunch pack on special at just $4.00/pack.

SUPERMARKET & MARKET PRICING FOR NEXT WEEK

RETAIL SNAPSHOTS OF AVOCADOS

Above: Coles Sunnybank Hills, Garden City and Mt Ommaney Displays

Coles stores had Shepard avocado variety priced at $1.90 or multibuy 3 for $5.00
Stores had 5 piece packs at $8.00 and the 1kg I’m Perfect net were selling at $6.50/unit.

Above: Aldi Sunnybank Hills, Garden City and Mt Ommaney Displays

Stores stocked NQ Shepards @ $1.79ea and 6 piece Shepard at $7.99. Fruit supplied by Greenskins count 23/25

All fruit was well stocked and of good quality with minimal bruising/damage - odd piece found with bruise/body rot.

Above: Woolworths Sunnybank Hills, Garden City and Mt Ommaney Displays

All stores had Shepard avocados at $1.90ea- Count 28 at Sunnybank Hills and $2.20 at other stores - a degree of bruising and rots amongst bottom layers of stock.
5 piece packs at $8.00/ pack and 1kg Odd Bunch on special for $4.00!

BANANA OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

The national banana cut last week was fairly stable just shy of 361,000 cartons harvested in the last week. National production is expected to be within the range of 360-370K cartons next week- it was actually 400K. The weather in the past week has been milder with minimum temperatures ranging 17.9-23.6C and maximum day temps of 26.4to 33.7C. In terms of rainfall, there has been a few showers along the coast, less in the hinterland.

Retail ticket pricing in Queensland for cavendish last week varied between the major supermarkets with Aldi offering fruit at $3.29/kg; Woolworths at $3.30 to $3.90/kg and Coles offering fruit at $3.80/kg dependent upon the store locality. The independent at one outlet had cavendish at $2.99/kg.

RETAIL SNAPSHOT OF BANANAS

Above: Coles Sunnybank Hills, Garden City and Mt Ommaney Displays

Cavendish was priced at $3.80, with Kids 750g packs also at $3.80
Lady Fingers were $7.90/kg across stores.
Quite a lot of stock was slightly backward, less than previous weeks though, with scarring, rub marking and sap staining evident

Above: Aldi Sunnybank Hills, Garden City and Mt Ommaney Displays

All stores had Cavendish @ $3.29, again skin marking, rub and sap staining. Fruit sizing also varied significantly.
Lady Finger bananas were priced @ $5.99

Above: Woolworths Sunnybank Hills, Garden City and Mt Ommaney Displays

Woolworths had Cavendish bananas priced at $3.90/kg and Lil Sana kids banded clusters at the same price. Banana displays were brighter in terms of colour and bloom at these stores - there was a degree of skin marking, little bat/bird damage but overall a good presentation
Lady fingers were priced at $7.90/kg
Stores also stocked Red tip variety, ticketed at $5.00 and Organic variety at $4.90

Growers Newsletter

AVOCADO OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

RETAIL SNAPSHOTS OF AVOCADOS

BANANA OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

RETAIL SNAPSHOT OF BANANAS

AVOCADO OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

SUPERMARKET & MARKET PRICING FOR NEXT WEEK

RETAIL SNAPSHOTS OF AVOCADOS

BANANA OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

RETAIL SNAPSHOT OF BANANAS

AVOCADO OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

SUPERMARKET & MARKET PRICING FOR NEXT WEEK

RETAIL SNAPSHOTS OF AVOCADOS

BANANA OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

RETAIL SNAPSHOT OF BANANAS

AVOCADO OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

SUPERMARKET & MARKET PRICING FOR NEXT WEEK

RETAIL SNAPSHOTS OF AVOCADOS

BANANA OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

RETAIL SNAPSHOT OF BANANAS

AVOCADO OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

SUPERMARKET & MARKET PRICING FOR NEXT WEEK

RETAIL SNAPSHOTS OF AVOCADOS

BANANA OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

RETAIL SNAPSHOT OF BANANAS

AVOCADO OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

SUPERMARKET & MARKET PRICING FOR NEXT WEEK

RETAIL SNAPSHOTS OF AVOCADOS

BANANA OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

RETAIL SNAPSHOT OF BANANAS

AVOCADO OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

SUPERMARKET & MARKET PRICING FOR NEXT WEEK

RETAIL SNAPSHOTS OF AVOCADOS

BANANA OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

RETAIL SNAPSHOT OF BANANAS

AVOCADO OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

SUPERMARKET & MARKET PRICING FOR NEXT WEEK

RETAIL SNAPSHOTS OF AVOCADOS

INDEPENDENT STORE - Westfield Coomera

BANANA OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

RETAIL SNAPSHOT OF BANANAS

INDEPENDENT STORE

AVOCADO OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

SUPERMARKET & MARKET PRICING FOR NEXT WEEK

RETAIL SNAPSHOTS OF AVOCADOS

INDEPENDENT STORE

BANANA OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

RETAIL SNAPSHOT OF BANANAS

INDEPENDENT STORE

AVOCADO OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

SUPERMARKET & MARKET PRICING FOR NEXT WEEK

RETAIL SNAPSHOTS OF AVOCADOS

BANANA OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

RETAIL SNAPSHOT OF BANANAS

AVOCADO OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

SUPERMARKET & MARKET PRICING FOR NEXT WEEK

RETAIL SNAPSHOTS OF AVOCADOS

BANANA OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE