2023 Week - 10

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QUICKLINKS

AVOCADO OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

In a nutshell the national production figures for last week were as follows: 

          Week 9, 2023 - A total of just 363,495 trays were harvested and transported last week which represents a 6.57% increase ( approx.22,000 more trays) on Week 8, 2023 production. Of the total, approx 304,000 trays of this volume were new season Shepard avos and so it is of no surprise that we saw North Qld maintain the lead in production at 85.76% of the total volume; Central Qld have commenced their season contributing 6.46% of the volume followed by WA at 5.79% (contributing Hass). The balance of approx 2% came from Central NSW and Tristate (other varieties). The despatch from North Qld has been adversely affected by the continued wet weather this week and this not forecast to improve until across the weekend.

·       It is forecast that a total of 363K trays will be despatched this week nationally. The Shepard forecast for the next two to three weeks is for supplies to be strengthening with volumes of approximately 300K to 360K trays per week expected, whilst total avocado production across this same period is expected to hit around 330-380K per week. The current four week average dispatch figure sits at 367,546 trays. The weather in far north Queensland from whence the bulk of primary production is currently being grown has been rather relentless in terms of rainfall - this obviously has an impact on our ability to harvest and puts more pressure on the packing crews to ensure that the fruit is handled with extra care as it tends to be more prone to lenticel damage the good news, is the weather is expected to clear by the weekend.

We saw a more uniform retail ticket price of avocados by major supermarkets this week with offers on pricing for premium Shepard in Qld ticketed at $1.99 to $2.00ea.  Market pricing in the three eastern seaboard locations was steady with prices ranging $20-$28/tray(odd $30/tray for really good fruit) for premium fruit and $14-$22/tray for class one. WA Hass supply continues to trickle through with the last of supplies expected in southern markets this week.   Market pricing for Shepard bulks, premium; class one and second bulks, have been ranging $6.00-$30.00/ctn.

Avocado display presentation in Qld stores this week was generally pleasing. Fruit age ranged 14 to 22 days from packed date on tray labels that were visible.  A little nodule/lenticel damage present on some lines which is not surprising considering the amount of rain the far North has been experiencing. Found a presence of anthracnose and body rots, bruising amongst a few lines as can be seen in store images below.

In terms of Avocado retail pricing in Qld shelf prices were as follows - Aldi Qld had NQ Shepard ticketed at $1.99ea;  Coles Qld had new season Shepards ticketed at $2.00ea, and Woolworths also had NQ Shepards selling at $2.00/ea instores visited.  The fruit on shelves varied in condition with maturity ranging just yielding to just about ready to eat. You will see in a couple of the store display shots that Greenskins have an additional sticker on the fruit that simply states “Eat Now” - this is a part of the Woolworths ripe programme - fruit has been ripened so that it is ready to eat for customers.

For this weeks sales pricing please see the info below….


RETAIL SNAPSHOTS OF AVOCADOS

Below: Coles Displays from Garden City, Browns Plains and Loganholme

  • Coles stores had Shepard avocados in Count 23-25 priced at $2.00ea. Fruit was well presented with packed dates of 14th to 20th Feb meaning fruit was 13 to 20 days old. Growers included Greenskins; Howe Farming; Rock Ridge; Cadorin (supplied by Murray Bros). Majority of fruit was of good quality though there was a presence of bruising and odd pieces with evidence of shrivelling, rotting and anthracnose.

  • 5 piece prepacks on special priced at $5.90ea and Ikg I’m Perfects at $6.90/pack - note the new packaging wrap that is now in use which is recyclable.

 

Below: Aldi Displays from Garden City, Browns Plains and Loganholme

  • Greenskin Shepard in counts 25 loose @ $1.99 each - some nodule damage and skin scarring present.

  • 5 piece packs priced at $6.49ea and 1kg packs at $5.99ea.

 

Below: Woolworths Displays from Garden City, Browns Plains and Loganholme

  • Stores had Count 23 and 25 Greenskin Shepard avocados at $2.00 each. All avocados packed 22nd Feb so age is therefore 14 days old. Did find a few pieces with rots and bruising throughout the displays.

  • 1kg Odd Bunch packs at $5.90ea and 5 piece packs at $7.50-7.90ea.

 

BANANA OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE


National transport figures for last week (Wk 9/2023) of some 357,255 cartons saw a further decline of 7.2% (some 27,500 ctns less than previous week). Over the last week in the far north, early A.M. temperatures have ranged 14.6 - 24.2 C across all major growing regions - whilst day time temperatures were warmer ranging 25.0 to 33.6C. In terms of rainfall, all major growing regions continue to be impacted by rainfall. Both Mareeba and Walkamin received in the vicinity of 85-89mm each across the week, whilst Tully and Innisfail have received 184 to 245mm across the week - the continuance of rain and cloudy skies (despite being warm) have an impact on harvesting and on fruit growth rates. Further rain is forecast for the next few days, there may be a reprive by the weekend.

Independent retailers were selling bananas at $2.79 to $3.99/kg this week.  The markets have moderate supplies of cavendish relative to demand.

The presentation of Cavendish presented this week had good bright bloom with a light presence of minor dry scar; small rub marks; neck injury and sap staining.

Retail ticket pricing in Queensland on bananas was varied this week with Aldi’s banana ticket price at what seems like a standard $3.49/kg - Browns Plains and Loganholme with very good displays; Woolies offered fruit at a ticket price of $4.00/kg at all three locations visited; whilst Coles were offering fruit at $2.99/kg to $3.50/kg dependent upon locations visited. Fruit was presented neatly on assigned displays, there was a presence of some minor rub and skin scarring as noted above.




















RETAIL SNAPSHOT OF BANANAS

Below: Coles Garden City, Browns Plains and Loganholme

  • Cavendish were priced at $2.99-3.50/kg depending upon store location and Kids packs were also at $3.50ea.

  • Quality across stores varied with some clusters having minor skin marking. Bloom was generally bright.

  • Lady Fingers were priced at $6.50/kg. Red Tips at $5.50/kg.

 

Below: Aldi Garden City, Browns Plains and Loganholme

  • Stores had Cavendish @ $3.49/kg, there was a presence of light skin marking, rub marking, neck injury- good bloom generally.

  • Lady Fingers were priced at $5.99/kg.

 

Below: Woolworths Garden City, Browns Plains and Loganholme

  • Woolworths had Cavendish bananas priced at $4.00/kg, Lil Sana kids banded clusters at $3.00. A light degree of marking but across the board the stores visited had neatly presented displays.

  • Lady fingers were on special priced at $6.00/kg, Red tips were priced at $5.00/kg and Organic Clusters at $5.50/kg.

 

2023 Week - 9

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QUICKLINKS

AVOCADO OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

In a nutshell the national production figures for last week were as follows: 

  Week 8, 2023 - A total of just 341,100 trays were harvested and transported last week which represents a 4.1% decrease ( approx. 14,000 fewer trays) on Week 7, 2023 production. Of the total, approx 222,000 trays of this volume were new season Shepard avos and so it is of no surprise that we saw North Qld maintain the lead in production at 83.68% of the total volume; followed by WA at 13.47% contributing Hass; and the balance of approx 2.8% coming from Central NSW and Tristate also contributing Hass. The despatch from North Qld has been adversely affected by the continued wet weather this week and this is forecast to be a continuing factor next week. Please note there was no imported fruit from New Zealand this week.

·       It is forecast that a total of 366K trays will be despatched this week nationally - though these figures were set prior to the inclement weather we have been experiencing in the North. The Shepard forecast for the next two to three weeks is for supplies to be strengthening with volumes of approximately 298K to 360K trays per week expected, whilst total avocado production across this same period is expected to hit around 350K per week. The current four week average dispatch figure sits at 375,146 trays. The weather in far north Queensland from whence the bulk of primary production is currently being grown has been rather relentless in terms of rainfall - this obviously has an impact on our ability to harvest and puts more pressure on the packing crews to ensure that the fruit is handled with extra care as it tends to be more prone to lenticel damage.

We saw a slight softening of the retail ticket price of avocados by major supermarkets this week with offers on pricing for premium Shepard in Qld ticketed at $2.00 to $2.49ea.  Market pricing in the three eastern seaboard locations has also come back with prices ranging $20-$26/tray for premium fruit and $14-$20/tray for class one. WA Hass supply continues to trickle through with the last of supplies hitting southern markets this week.   Market pricing for Shepard bulks, premium; class one and second bulks, have been ranging $6.00-$25.00/ctn.

Avocado display presentation in Qld stores this week was generally pleasing. Fruit age ranged 8 to 14 days from packed date on tray labels that were visible.  A little nodule/lenticel damage present on some lines which is not surprising considering the amount of rain the far North has been experiencing. Found a presence of antracnose and body rots, bruising amongst a few lines as noted below.

In terms of Avocado retail pricing in Qld shelf prices were as follows - Aldi Qld had NQ Shepard only selling at $2.49ea (featured in their weekly catalogue);  Coles Qld had new season Shepards ticketed at $2.00ea, and Woolworths had NQ Shepards selling at $2.00/piece.  The fruit on shelves varied in condition with maturity ranging just yielding to just about ready to eat. You will see in a couple of the store display shots that Greenskins have an additional sticker on the fruit that simply states “Eat Now” - this is a part of the Woolworths ripe programme - fruit has been ripened so that it is ready to eat for customers. It was also great to see in Woolworths stores, new Shepard season header cards to highlight the variety’s return to customers.

For this weeks sales pricing please see the info below….


 

RETAIL SNAPSHOTS OF AVOCADOS

Below: Coles Displays from Garden City, Carindale and Indooroopilly

  • Coles stores had Shepard avocados in Count 23-25 priced at $2.00ea. Fruit was well presented with packed dates of 14th to 16th Feb meaning fruit was 13 to 15 days old. Growers included Greenskins; Howe Farming; Rock Ridge; Cadorin and fruit packed by Massasso’s (Delroy Supply). Majority of fruit was of good quality though there was a presence of bruising and odd pieces with evidence of shrivelling /dehyrated particularly as found on the table top displays which tended to be 3-4 pieces deep - bottom layer compromised.

  • 5 piece prepacks on special priced at $6.90ea and Ikg I’m Perfects at $8.90/pack - note the new packaging wrap that is now in use which is recyclable.

 

Below: Aldi Displays from Garden City, Carindale and Indooroopilly

  • Greenskin Shepard in counts 25 loose @ $2.49 each - some nodule damage and skin scarring present. Note one store had failed to update shelf price ticket. Indooroopilly store had no stock of loose.

  • Shepard Avos were a feature in the Aldi Catalogue this week.

  • 5 piece packs priced at $6.99ea and 1kg packs at $7.49ea.

 

Below: Woolworths Displays from Garden City, Carindale and Indooroopilly

  • Stores had Count 20; 23 and 25 Greenskin Shepard avocados at $2.00 each. All avocados packed 15th Feb so age is therefore 14 days old. Did find a few pieces with antracnose; rots and bruising throughout the displays.

  • 1kg Odd Bunch packs at $6.30ea.

 

BANANA OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

National transport figures for last week (Wk 8/2023) of some 384,800 cartons saw a further declined by 15% (some 72,500 ctns less than previous week). Over the last week in the far north, early A.M. temperatures have ranged 19.5 - 23.8 C across all major growing regions - whilst day time temperatures were warmer ranging 25.6 to 31C. In terms of rainfall, all major growing regions continue to be impacted by rainfall. Both Mareeba and Walkamin received in the vicinity of 14-15mm each across the week, whilst Tully and Innisfail have received 228 to 272mm across the week - the continuance of rain and cloudy skies (despite being warm) have an impact on harvesting and on fruit growth rates.

Independent retailers were selling bananas at $2.69 to $3.49/kg this week.  The markets have moderate supplies of cavendish relative to demand.

The presentation of Cavendish presented this week had good bright bloom (except two stores with random dull clusters) with a light presence of minor dry scar; small rub marks; neck injury and sap staining.

Retail ticket pricing in Queensland on bananas was uniform this week with Aldi’s banana ticket price at $3.49/kg; Woolies offered fruit at a ticket price of $3.50/kg in stores frequented and Coles were also offering fruit at $3.50/kg in locations visited. Fruit was presented neatly on assigned displays, there was a presence of some minor rub and skin scarring as noted above.




















RETAIL SNAPSHOT OF BANANAS

Below: Coles Garden City, Carindale and Indooroopilly

  • Cavendish were priced at $3.50/kg depending upon store location and Kids packs were also at $3.50ea.

  • Quality across stores varied with some clusters having minor skin marking. Bloom was generally bright but one store had a few clusters that were very dull which suggests it has been held at too cold a temperature somewhere in the system.

  • Lady Fingers were priced at $7.90/kg. Red Tips at $5.50/kg. Organics at $5.50/kg.

 

Below: Aldi Garden City, Carindale and Indooroopilly

  • Stores had Cavendish @ $3.49/kg, there was a presence of light skin marking, rub marking, neck injury- good bloom generally.

  • Lady Fingers were priced at $5.99/kg, these were of similar quality in each store - some clusters bruised, also rub marking present.

 

Below: Woolworths Garden City, Carindale and Indooroopilly

  • Woolworths had Cavendish bananas priced at $3.50/kg, Lil Sana kids banded clusters at $3.00. A light degree of marking but across the board the stores visited had neatly presented displays.

  • Lady fingers were on special priced at $6.00/kg, Red tips were priced at $5.00/kg and Organic Clusters at $5.50/kg and Mini bananas at $3.00/cluster pack.

 

2023 Week - 8

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QUICKLINKS

AVOCADO OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

In a nutshell the national production figures for last week were as follows: 

·       Week 7, 2023 - A total of just 355,883 trays were harvested and transported last week which represents a 13% decrease ( approx. 54,000 fewer trays) on Week 6, 2023 production. Of the total, just shy of 278,000 trays of this volume were new season Shepard avos and so it is of no surprise that we saw North Qld climb to 82.4% of the production total volume; followed by WA at 15.2% contributing Hass; Tristate at 1.4%, and the balance of approx 1% coming from Central NSW and NZ also contributing Hass.

·       It is forecast that a total of 392K trays will be despatched this week nationally. The Shepard forecast for the next two to three weeks is for supplies to be strengthening with volumes of approximately 350K to 370K trays per week expected, whilst total avocado production across this same period is expected to hit around 420K per week. The current four week average dispatch figure sits at 383,977 trays. The weather over recent weeks in far north Queensland from whence the primary production is currently being grown has been rather relentless in terms of rainfall - this obviously has an impact on our ability to harvest and puts more pressure on the packing crews to ensure that the fruit is handled with extra care as it tends to be more prone to lenticel damage.

We saw a slight softening of the retail ticket price of avocados by major supermarkets this week with offers on pricing for premium Shepard in Qld ticketed at $2.50 to $2.79ea.  Market pricing in the three eastern seaboard locations has also come back with prices ranging $20-$25/tray for premium fruit and $14-$18/tray for class one. WA Hass supply should come to an end at the close of this week.   Market pricing for Shepard bulks, premium; class one and second bulks, have been ranging $6.00-$30.00/ctn.

Avocado display presentation in Qld stores this week was generally pleasing. Fruit age ranged 8 to 14 days from packed date on tray labels that were visible.  A little nodule/lenticel damage present on some lines which is not surprising considering the amount of rain the far North has been experiencing.

In terms of Avocado retail pricing in Qld shelf prices were as follows - Aldi Qld had NQ Shepard only selling at $2.79ea;  Coles Qld had new season Shepards ticketed at $2.50ea, and Woolworths had NQ Shepards selling at $2.50 to $2.70/piece depending upon store location and size of fruit.  The fruit on shelves varied in condition with maturity ranging just yielding to just about ready to eat. You will see in a couple of the store display shots that Greenskins have an additional sticker on the fruit that simply states “Eat Now” - this is a part of the Woolworths ripe programme - fruit has been ripened so that it is ready to eat for customers. It was great to see in Woolworths stores, new Shepard season header cards to highlight the variety’s return to customers.

For this weeks sales pricing please see the info below….

 

RETAIL SNAPSHOTS OF AVOCADOS

Below: Coles Displays from Garden City, North Toowoomba and Smithfield

  • Coles stores had Shepard avocados in Count 20-23 priced at $2.50ea. Fruit was well presented with packed dates of 8th to 10th Feb meaning fruit was 12 to 14 days old. Growers included Greenskins; Howe Farming; Delais

  • 5 piece prepacks priced at $7.90ea and Ikg Im Perfects at $8.90/pack - note the new packaging wrap that is now in use which is recyclable.

 

Below: Aldi Displays from Garden City, Acacia Ridge and North Toowoomba

  • Greenskin Shepard in counts 25 loose @ $2.79 each - some nodule damage and skin scarring present.

  • Fruit packed 7th and 8th Feb so fruit age ranging 14 to 15 days.

  • 5 piece packs priced at $7.99ea and 1kg packs at $7.49ea.

 

Below: Woolworths Displays from Garden City, North Toowoomba and Moorooka

  • POS header cards with “Shepard avocados are back in Season” announcement present. Stores had Count 23; 25 and 28 Shepard avocados at $2.50 each. NB one store had the wrong price point on shelf card as being $2.70ea. All avocados 8- 14 days old

  • 1kg Odd Bunch packs at $7.00ea.

 

BANANA OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

National transport figures for last week (Wk 7/2023) declined by 4% to 457,445 cartons (some 19,000 ctns less than previous week). Over the last week in the far north, early A.M. temperatures have ranged 19 - 23.7 C across all major growing regions - whilst day time temperatures were warmer ranging 24.3 to 30.3C. In terms of rainfall, all major growing regions continue to be impacted by rainfall. Both Mareeba and Walkamin received between 67 and 81mm across the week, whilst Tully and Innisfail have received 198.6 to 308mm across the week - the continuance of rain and cloudy skies (despite being warm) have an impact on harvesting and on fruit growth rates.

Independent retailers were selling bananas at $2.69 to $3.49/kg this week.  The markets have moderate supplies of cavendish relative to demand.

The presentation of Cavendish presented this week had good bright bloom with a light presence of minor dry scar; speckle; small rub marks and sap staining.

Retail ticket pricing in Queensland on bananas was fairly uniform this week in comparison to the week prior with Aldi’s banana ticket price at $3.49/kg; Woolies offered fruit at a ticket price of $4.00/kg in stores frequented and Coles were offering fruit at $2.99 to $4.00/kg dependant upon location visited. Fruit was presented neatly on assigned displays, there was a presence of some minor rub and skin scarring.




















RETAIL SNAPSHOT OF BANANAS

Below: Coles Garden City, North Toowoomba and Smithfield

  • Cavendish was priced at $2.99 to $4.00/kg depending upon store location and Kids packs at $3.50ea.

  • Quality across stores varied with some clusters having minor skin marking. Bloom was bright.

  • Lady Fingers were priced at $7.90/kg. Red Tips at $5.50/kg. Organics at $5.50/kg.

 

Below: Aldi Garden City, Acacia Ridge and Toowoomba

  • Stores had Cavendish @ $3.49/kg, there was a presence of light skin marking - good bloom.

  • Lady Fingers were priced at $5.99/kg, these were of similar quality in each store - some clusters bruised, also rub marking present.

 

Below: Woolworths Garden City, North Toowoomba and Moorooka

  • Woolworths had Cavendish bananas priced at $4.00/kg, Lil Sana kids banded clusters at $3.00.

  • Lady fingers were on special priced at $6.50/kg, Red tips were priced at $5.00/kg and Organic Clusters at $5.50/kg and Mini bananas at $3.00/cluster pack.

 

2022-Week -42

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QUICKLINKS

AVOCADO OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

In a nutshell the national production figures for last week were as follows: 

·       Week 41 - A total of just 333,078 trays were harvested and transported last week which represents a 1% decrease ( approx. 4,000 fewer trays) on Week 40, 2022 production. This week we saw WA’s lead climb to 28.1% of the total volume; followed by Tristate at 26.5%; Central NSW at 18.8%, New Zealand at 13.8%; and South Qld at 11.5% of the overall total. The remaining 1.3% is made up of contributions from Tamborine, Sunshine Coast and Northern Rivers.

·       It is forecast that a total of 394K trays will be despatched this week nationally. The Hass forecast for the next two to three weeks is for supplies to be strengthening with volumes of approximately 370K to 400K trays per week expected. The current four week average dispatch figures continues to fall below 400K at 319,148 trays.

Major supermarkets differed in the way they approached the avocado ticket price this week with offers on pricing for premium Hass ticketed at $1.69 to $2.00ea.  Market pricing in Brisbane and Sydney has continued to firm, which is great news for growers, prices range $24-$34 with main sales $28-$32 ( the odd $36/tray fore real glamour fruit). In Victoria, the increased supply of quality WA fruit has seen pricing of $30-$36/tray for premium fruit; $26-$30 on other Australian grown hass. Prices for class one fruit have been falling within a range of $14 -$22/tray.  There have been some class one and second bulks on the market this week with prices ranging $10-$24.

Our growers from SW NSW, more specifically in the region of Barham are also working hard to ensure specifications - supplies are expected for another two weeks, dependent upon the weather. We are also pleased to announce that Avonova in WA are harvesting and packing again, with the first of their fruit to hit shelves from 24th October - we expect a slow start to their season as numbers are lighter this year but quality is definitely looking good.

Avocado display presentation in Qld/WA stores this week was generally pleasing. Fruit age ranged 7 to 33 days from packed date on tray labels that were visible, with NZ sourced fruit being 22 to 33 days.  This week we saw New Zealand fruit as a component of the offering in all three of the major supermarkets in Brisbane.

Paul had a trip to WA this week to catch up with growers, so we have a glimpse in the Perth retail landscape this week as well. In terms of Avocado retail pricing in Qld shelf prices were as follows - the offer was very similar to last week :  Aldi Qld had NZ Hass selling this week at a ticket price of $1.69ea in store as did Aldi Perth;  Coles Qld had Australian and NZ Hass ticketed at $1.80ea depending upon store location, whilst Woolworths had both Central Qld grown Hass and NZ Hass selling at $1.80 to $2.00/piece depending upon store location and size of fruit.  The fruit on shelves varied in condition with maturity ranging just yielding to just about ready to eat.

 

RETAIL SNAPSHOTS OF AVOCADOS

Below: Coles Displays from Browns Plains, Loganholme and a store in Perth

  • Coles stores had Hass avocados priced at $1.80ea. Fruit was well presented - all 7-14 days old and just yielding to ready to eat and quite soft with respects to maturity.

  • 5pks selling for $7.90ea.

 

Below: Aldi Displays from Browns Plains, Loganholme and a store in Perth

  • Hass in counts 23/25 loose @ $1.49 - $1.69 each.

  • Fruit age ranging 6 to 15 days.

  • 5 piece Hass nets at $6.49ea and 1kg market packs at $5.79ea.

 

Below: Woolworths Displays from Browns Plains, Loganholme and a store in Perth

  • Stores had Hass avocados at $1.80 each. All avocados 13-21 days old - some fruit is yielding to gentle pressure, some ready to eat and a lesser percentage still very firm.

  • 1kg packs priced at $6.30ea and 5 piece packs at $7.50ea.

 

BANANA OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

National transport figures for last week declined by a further 4% to 445,605 cartons (some 20,000 ctns less than last week). Over the last week in the far north, slightly cooler early A.M. temperatures ranged 16 - 22 C across the growing regions - whilst day time temperatures were considerably warmer ranging 29 to 31.7C -as the days gradually lengthen and the barometer starts to climb we will see fruit growth rates comparatively increase. In terms of rainfall, all major growing regions were relatively dry with just the odd light shower in Tully and Innisfail contributing 0.4 and 4.6mm to the annual rainfall records. Cavendish banana bunch age is currently at 16 weeks with this expected to be back to 15-16 weeks by mid-November; as the weather continues to warm. We continue to see the presence of underpeel chill after previous winter growing periods of cold overnight and morning lows. We expect to see a lessening presence of underpeel chill and hence dull bloom through until at least the end of November, maybe even extending into December.

Independent retailers were selling bananas at $2.69 to $3.49/kg this week.  The markets all have moderate supplies of cavendish relative to demand with fruit selling at $18-$33 per carton, dependent upon quality and quantity each agent has.

The presentation of Cavendish presented this week continue to reflect the impact of cold growth periods throughout winter with fruit of less bright appearance present in varying degrees. There was a presence of minor dry scar; speckle; small rub marks and sap staining.

Retail ticket pricing in Queensland on bananas was fairly uniform this week in comparison to the week prior with Aldi’s banana ticket price declined by $1/kg to $2.99/kg; Woolies offered fruit at a ticket price of $3.50/kg in stores frequented and Coles were offering fruit at $3.00/kg dependant upon location visited. Fruit was presented neatly on assigned displays, there was a presence of dull fruit to varying degrees, on show in all outlets again this week as can be expected for the next few months.




















RETAIL SNAPSHOT OF BANANAS

Below: Coles Browns Plains, Loganholme and a store in Perth

  • Cavendish was priced at $3.00/kg and Kids packs at $3.00ea.

  • Quality across stores was quite good though some clusters found with minor skin marking. Both minor and major bruising; neck injuries, rub and general scarring also found.

  • Lady Fingers were priced at $7.90/kg. Red Tips at $5.50/kg.

 

Below: Aldi Browns Plains, Loganholme and a store in Perth

  • Stores had Cavendish @ $2.99/kg- there was a presence of slightly green fruit, light skin marking and neck damage.

  • Lady Fingers were priced at $5.49/kg, these were of similar quality in each store.

 

Below: Woolworths Browns Plains, Loganholme and a store in Perth

  • Woolworths had Cavendish bananas priced at $3.50/kg, Lil Sana kids banded clusters at $3.00. Displays were generally well presented whilst again some minor neck damage and light skin marking .

  • Lady fingers were priced at $7.00/kg, Red tips were priced at $5.50/kg and Organic Clusters $6.00/kg

 

2022-Week -41

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QUICKLINKS

AVOCADO OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

In a nutshell the national production figures for last week were as follows: 

·       Week 40 - A total of just 337,292 trays were harvested and transported last week which represents a 5% increase ( approx. 16,000 more trays) on Week 39, 2022 production. This week we saw WA climb to the top of the leader board in terms of production contributing 23% of the total volume; followed by Tristate at 22% and New Zealand at 22%; then Central NSW at 19% and South Qld at 13% of the overall total. The remaining 1% is made up of contributions from Tamborine, Sunshine Coast and Northern Rivers.

·       It is forecast that a total of 366K trays will be despatched this week nationally. The Hass forecast for the next two to three weeks is for supplies to be strengthening with volumes of approximately 380K to 400K trays per week expected. The current four week average dispatch figures continues to fall below 400K at 325,545 trays.

Major supermarkets differed in the way they approached the avocado ticket price this week with offers on pricing for premium Hass ticketed at $1.69 to $2.00ea.  Market pricing in Brisbane and Sydney has continued to firm, which is great news for growers, prices range $24-$32 with main sales $28-$32 ( the odd $34/tray fore real glamour fruit). In Victoria, the increased supply of quality WA fruit has seen pricing of $30-$34/tray for premium fruit; $26-$30 on other Australian grown hass. Prices for class one fruit have been falling within a range of $14 -$21/tray.  There have been some class one and second bulks on the market this week with prices ranging $10-$24.

We are continuing to supply Hass grown in the SE corner of Qld from the region of Blackbutt. Temperatures in this region have been a touch warmer this week with overnight/early morning temps ranging 9-17.5C and daytimes warming up to 16-26C whilst rain has continued its presence this week with a total of 10-24mm across the region. Our Packing team are working tirelessly to ensure fruit quality is within specification each week - we are continuing to find a slightly higher presence of nodule damage with continued wet weather, with the more heavily marked pieces being removed from the packs to ensure fruit is in spec. This will be the final week of packing for this region. Our growers from SW NSW, more specifically in the region of Barham are also working hard to ensure specifications - supplies expected for another two weeks, dependent upon the weather. We are also please to announce that Avonova in WA are commencing their hass harvest late this week, just starting slowly.

Hass Avocado display presentation in Qld stores this week was generally pleasing. Fruit age ranged 8 to 30 days from packed date on tray labels that were visible, with NZ sourced fruit being 22 to 30 days.  This week we saw New Zealand fruit as a component of the offering in all three of the major supermarkets in Brisbane.

In terms of Avocado retail pricing in Qld shelf prices were as follows:  Aldi Qld had NZ Hass selling this week at a ticket price of $1.69ea in store;  Coles Qld had Australian and NZ Hass ticketed at $1.50 to $1.80ea depending upon store location, whilst Woolworths had both Central Qld grown Hass and NZ Hass selling at $1.70 to $2.00/piece depending upon store location and size of fruit.  The fruit on shelves varied in condition with maturity ranging just yielding to just about ready to eat. Aldi seemed to have a much higher percentage of quite ripe fruit on shelf this week.

 

RETAIL SNAPSHOTS OF AVOCADOS

Below: Coles Displays from Garden City, Redbank Plains and Toowoomba - Kearny Springs and Clifford Gardens

  • Coles stores had Hass avocados priced at $1.80ea. Fruit was well presented - all 7-14 days old and just yielding to ready to eat and quite soft with respects to maturity. Main lines of fruit found were from ‘Tree 2 Me’.

  • 5pks selling for $7.90ea and 1kg prepacks on special priced $5.90ea

 

Below: Aldi Displays from Garden City, Redbank Plains and Toowoomba - Kearny Springs

  • Hass in counts 23/25 loose @ $1.69 each.

  • Fruit age ranging 6 to 15 days.

  • 5 piece Hass nets at $5.99ea and 1kg market packs at $5.79ea.

 

Below: Woolworths Displays from Garden City, Redbank Plains and Toowoomba - Kearny Springs and Clifford Gardens

  • Stores had Hass avocados at $2.00 each. All avocados 13-21 days old - some fruit is yielding to gentle pressure, some ready to eat and a lesser percentage still very firm.

  • 1kg packs priced at $6.30ea and 5 piece packs at $5.90ea.

 

BANANA OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

National transport figures for last week declined by 4% to 465,316 cartons (some 21,800 ctns less than last week). In this last week in the far north, early A.M. temperatures ranged 18.4 - 23 C across the growing regions - whilst day time temperatures were considerably warmer ranging 28 to 32C -as the days gradually lengthen and the barometer starts to climb we will see fruit growth rates comparatively increase. In terms of rainfall, all major growing regions except Mareeba, experienced falls across the week 15 to 43mm in the north. Cavendish banana bunch age is currently at 16 weeks with this expected to be back to 16-17 weeks by mid-October; as the weather continues to warm. We continue to see the presence of underpeel chill after previous winter growing periods of cold overnight and morning lows. We expect to see a lessening presence of underpeel chill and hence dull bloom through until at least the end of November, maybe even extending into December.

Independent retailers were selling bananas at $2.29 to $3.69/kg this week.  The markets all have moderate supplies of cavendish relative to demand with fruit selling at $16-$32 per carton, dependent upon quality and quantity each agent has.

The presentation of Cavendish presented this week continue to reflect the impact of cold growth periods throughout winter with fruit of less bright appearance present in varying degrees. There was a presence of minor dry scar; speckle; small rub marks and sap staining.

Retail ticket pricing in Queensland on bananas was fairly uniform this week in comparison to the week prior with Aldi’s banana ticket price at $3.99/kg; whilst Woolies offered fruit at a super hot ticket price of $2.00 to $2.50/kg in stores frequented and Coles were offering fruit at $3.00/kg dependant upon location visited. Fruit was presented neatly on assigned displays, there was a presence of dull fruit to varying degrees, on show in all outlets again this week as can be expected for the next few months.






















RETAIL SNAPSHOT OF BANANAS

Below: Coles Garden City, Redbank Plains and Toowoomba - Kearny Springs and Clifford Gardens Displays

  • Cavendish was priced at $3.00/kg and Kids packs at $3.00ea.

  • Quality across stores was quite good though some clusters found with minor skin marking. Both minor and major bruising; neck injuries, rub and general scarring also found.

  • Lady Fingers were priced at $5.50/kg. Red Tips at $5.50/kg.

 

Below: Aldi Garden City, Redbank Plains and Toowoomba - Kearny Springs Displays

  • Stores had Cavendish @ $3.99/kg- there was a presence of slightly green fruit, light skin marking and neck damage.

  • Lady Fingers were priced at $5.49/kg, these were of similar quality in each store, with about half of the stock being green.

 

Below: Woolworths Garden City, Redbank Plains and Toowoomba - Kearny Springs and Clifford Gardens Displays

  • Woolworths had Cavendish bananas priced at $2.00/kg, Lil Sana kids banded clusters at $2.00-3.00. Displays were generally well presented whilst again some minor neck damage and light skin marking .

  • Lady fingers were priced at $7.00/kg, Red tips were priced at $5.50/kg and Organic Clusters $6.00/kg

 

2022-Week -37

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QUICKLINKS

AVOCADO OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

In a nutshell the national production figures for last week were as follows: 

·    Week 36 - A total of 355,640 trays were harvested and transported last week which represents a 14% decrease ( approx. 58500 less trays) on Week 35, 2022 production – Central Qld maintained the lead in production accounting for 28% of this volume; followed by Central NSW in second place contributed 20% of this; Tristate 16%; WA and South Qld each contributed 12%; whilst New Zealand contributed 7% of the overall total. The remaining 5% is made up of contributions from North Qld, Tamborine, Sunshine Coast and Northern Rivers.

·       It is forecast that a total of 344K trays will be despatched this week nationally. The Hass forecast for the next two to three weeks is for slightly lower quantities of approximately 310K to 370K trays per week. The current four week average dispatch as of this week is 421,290 trays.

Major supermarkets were again relatively close in monetary terms in their offering this week for avocado pricing with premium Hass ticketed at $1.49 to $1.70ea.  There has been a further reduction in market pricing of hass in the last week, with some traders stock piling fruit (some of which has been self ripening and therefore needing to be cleared) so premium tray sales are tending to be in the mid twenties, with main sales $20-$22. Prices for class one fruit have been falling within a range of $10 -$16/tray.  There have been some class one and second bulks on the market this week with prices ranging $10-$20.

We are continuing to supply Hass grown in the SE corner of Qld from the region of Blackbutt. Temperatures in this region have been a touch warmer this week with overnight/early morning temps ranging 5.6-13.4C and daytimes warming up to 18-24C whilst rain has continued its presence this week with a total of 12-22mm across the region. This continues to wreak havic with harvesting and transferring of fruit to the pack shed between wet periods. Our Packing team are working tirelessly to ensure fruit quality is within specification each week - we have been finding a slightly higher presence of nodule damage this week, with the more heavily marked pieces being removed from the packs to ensure fruit is in spec. Main fruit sizing continues to fall within Ct 20-23. All going well, supply from this district should see us through to mid-late October.

Our growers from SW NSW, more specifically in the region of Barham are also working hard to ensure fruit meets specification and they too have been held up by the rain this week, sadly there is more forecast for the week to follow - supplies expected for another four to five weeks, perhaps a week longer depending upon how much of hold up the rain causes.

Hass Avocado display presentation in Qld stores this week was generally pleasing. Fruit age ranged 12 to 15 days from packed date on tray labels that were visible.  It should be noted we saw the first of the New Zealand fruit on Aldi shelves this week in Brisbane.

In terms of Avocado retail pricing in Qld shelf prices were as follows:  Aldi Qld had Hass selling this week at a ticket price of $1.49ea in store;  Coles Qld had Central Qld, SE Qld and Victorian grown Hass from Giofrelle ticketed at $1.50ea depending upon store location, whilst Woolworths had Central Qld grown Hass selling at $1.70/piece depending upon store location and size of fruit.  The fruit on shelves varied in condition with maturity ranging just yielding to just about ready to eat. Aldi seemed to have a much higher percentage of quite ripe fruit on shelf this week.

Note Main sales for premium fruit selling $20-$22 per tray this week

 

RETAIL SNAPSHOTS OF AVOCADOS

Below: Coles Displays from Forest Lake; Fairfield and Browns Plains

  • Coles stores had Hass avocados priced at $1.50ea. Fruit was well presented - all 7-14 days old and just yielding to ready to eat and quite soft with respects to maturity. Main lines of fruit found were from Simpson Farms and Costa’s.

  • 5pks selling for $4.90ea on special and 1kg prepacks at $5.90ea

 

Below: Aldi Displays Forest Lake; Fairfield and Browns Plains

  • Toulsens “Tree 2 Me” Hass supplied by Delroys was the main line found in counts 23/25 loose @ $1.49 each. But Freshmax/DBM were supplying the first of the NZ fruit seen in Aldi stores this week.

  • Fruit age ranging 6 to 15 days.

  • 5 piece Hass nets and 1kg market packs at $5.99ea.

 

Below: Woolworths Displays Moorooka; Browns Plains and Forest Lake

  • Stores had Simpson Farms and Purple Skins Hass avocados at $1.70 each. All avocados 13-21 days old - some fruit is yielding to gentle pressure, some ready to eat and a lesser percentage still very firm.

  • 1kg packs priced at $5.90-6.90ea and 5 piece packs at $7.50ea.

 

BANANA OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

National transport figures for last week were of 432,200 cartons. Spring we believe is finally here as temperatures are rising and the sun is shining, in North Qld at least. In this last week in the far north, early A.M. temperatures ranged 13.8 - 21.4 C across the growing regions - whilst day time temperatures were considerably warmer ranging 26.3 to 31.3C -as the days gradually lengthen and the barometer starts to climb we will see fruit growth rates comparatively increase. In terms of rainfall, all major growing regions in the north received minimal falls with in the range of 0 to 2mm. Cavendish banana bunch age is currently at 17 weeks with this expected to be back to 16-17 weeks by later this month; as the weather continues to warm. We continue to see the presence of underpeel chill after previous weeks of cold overnight and morning lows. Sub-ten degree temperatures cause a temporary cessation of sap flow which results in the sub-epidermal layer greying/browning which reflects outward through the peel with the fruit having a dull appearance. Whilst this does impact the fresh appeal of the banana, it in no way negatively impacts the flavour or eating quality of the fruit - in fact, winter grown fruit is normally a little sweeter as it takes longer to grow. We expect to see the presence of underpeel chill and hence dull bloom through until at least the end of November, maybe even extending into December.

Independent retailers were selling bananas at $2.99 to $3.49/kg this week.  The markets all have moderate supplies of cavendish relative to demand with fruit selling at $16-$32 per carton, dependent upon quality and quantity each agent has.

The presentation of Cavendish presented this week continue to reflect the impact of cold growth periods throughout winter with sub 10C temperatures experienced both on the Tablelands and along the coast with less bright and dull bloomed fruit present in varying degrees. There was a presence of minor dry scar; minor neck damage; small rub marks, speckle and sap staining.  Colour varied - slightly backward in some stores; developing to a good yellow hue.

Retail ticket pricing in Queensland on bananas was fairly uniform this week in comparison to the week prior with Aldi’s banana ticket price at $3.49/kg; whilst Woolies offered fruit at $3.50-$4.00/kg in stores frequented and Coles offered fruit at $3.50/kg in all three locations visited. Fruit was presented neatly on assigned displays, there was a presence of dull fruit to varying degrees, on show in all outlets again this week as can be expected for the next few months.




















RETAIL SNAPSHOT OF BANANAS

Below: Coles Displays

  • Cavendish was priced at $3.50/kg and Kids packs at $3.50ea.

  • Quality across stores was quite good though some clusters found with minor skin marking. Both minor and major bruising; neck injuries, rub and general scarring also found.

  • Lady Fingers were priced at $7.90/kg. Red Tips at $5.50/kg.

 

Below: Aldi Displays

  • Stores had Cavendish @ $3.49/kg- there was a small presence of some green fruit, light bruising/skin marking and neck damage.

  • Lady Fingers were priced at $5.99/kg, these were of varying quality in each store.

 

Below: Woolworths Displays

  • Woolworths had Cavendish bananas priced at $3.50-4.00/kg, Lil Sana kids banded clusters at $3.00. Displays were generally well presented whilst again some minor neck damage and light skin marking .

  • Lady fingers were priced at $7.00/kg, Red tips were priced at $5.50-6.50/kg and Organic Clusters $6.50-7.00/kg

 

2022-Week -36

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QUICKLINKS

AVOCADO OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

In a nutshell the national production figures for last week were as follows: 

·    Week 35 - A total of 414,212 trays were harvested and transported last week which represents an 7% decrease ( approx. 32000 less trays) on Week 34, 2022 production – Central Qld maintained the lead in production accounting for 32% of this volume; followed by Central NSW in second place contributed 20% of this; 14.5% from South Qld; WA contributed 10.7%; as did Tristate; whilst New Zealand contributed 7% of the overall total. The remaining 5% is made up of contributions from North Qld, Tamborine, Sunshine Coast and Northern Rivers.

·       It is forecast that a total of 348K trays will be despatched this week nationally. The Hass forecast for the next two to three weeks is for slightly lower quantities of approximately 325K to 355K trays per week. The current four week average dispatch as of this week is 437,714 trays.

Major supermarkets were again relatively close in monetary terms in their offering this week for avocado pricing with premium Hass ticketed at $1.40 to $1.69ea.  There has been a slight reduction in market pricing of hass in the last week, with some traders stock piling fruit (some of which has been self ripening and therefore needing to be cleared) so premium tray sales are tending to be in the mid twenties, main range $21-$25. Prices for class one fruit have been falling within a range of $10 -$17/tray.  There have been some class one and second bulks on the market this week with prices ranging $10-$20.

We are supplying Hass grown in the SE corner of Qld from the region of Blackbutt. Temperatures in this region have been a touch warmer this week with overnight/early morning temps ranging 5-12.6C and daytimes warming up to 15-22C whilst rain has continued its presence this week with a total of 18-24mm across the region. This has made it interesting in relation to harvesting and transferring of fruit to the pack shed between wet periods. Our Packing team are working hard to ensure fruit quality is within specification each week - we have been finding a slightly higher presence of nodule damage this week, with the more heavily marked pieces being removed from the packs to ensure fruit is in spec. Main fruit sizing continues to fall within Ct 20-23. All going well we look to increase our production by 10-20% throughout the next 6-8 weeks. Our growers from SW NSW, more specifically in the region of Barham are also working hard to ensure specifications are met and that fruit quality is consistent throughout the season - fruit quality from this region has been good with supplies expected for another five or so weeks.

Hass Avocado display presentation in Qld stores this week was generally pleasing. Fruit age ranged 7 to 15 days from packed date on tray labels that were visible. 

In terms of Avocado retail pricing in Qld shelf prices were as follows:  Aldi Qld had Hass selling this week at a ticket price of $1.69ea in store;  Coles Qld had Central Qld and NQ Hass ticketed at $1.50ea depending upon store location, whilst Woolworths had Central Qld grown Hass selling at $1.40/piece depending upon store location and size of fruit.  The fruit on shelves varied in condition with maturity ranging just yielding to just about ready to eat.

 

RETAIL SNAPSHOTS OF AVOCADOS

Below: Coles Carindale, Coles Local Hamilton, Coles Mt Gravatt East and Garden City Displays

  • Coles stores had Hass avocados priced at $1.50ea. Fruit was well presented - all 7-14 days old and just yielding to ready to eat and quite soft with respects to maturity. Main lines of fruit found were from Simpson Farms and Costa’s.

  • 5pks selling for $4.90ea on special and 1kg prepacks at $6.90ea

 

Below: Aldi Carindale; Mt Gravatt East and Garden City Displays

  • Avorama packed Tree 2 Me Hass in counts 23/25 loose @ $1.69 each.

  • Fruit age ranging 6 to 15 days.

  • 5 piece Hass nets and 1kg market packs at $5.99ea.

 

Below: Woolworths Carindale, Doomben; Mt Gravatt Central and Garden City Displays

  • Stores had Simpson Farms(Tinaroo Falls) and Team Avocado NZ Hass avocados at $1.40 each. All avocados 8-14 days old - some fruit is yielding to gentle pressure, some ready to eat and a lesser percentage still very firm.

  • 1kg packs priced at $6.90ea and 5 piece packs at $7.50ea.

 

BANANA OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

National transport figures for last week were 437,500 cartons. Spring might be here by the calendar, bur we are still having some cool starts to the day on farms. In this last week in the far north, early A.M. temperatures ranged 11.8 - 21.4 C across the growing regions - whilst day time temperatures were considerably warmer ranging 23.6 to 29.6C -as the days gradually lengthen and the barometer starts to climb we will see fruit growth rates also speeding up. In terms of rainfall, Mareeba, Tully and Innisfail received in the vicinity of 30-40mm each across the week, whilst the other major growing regions received much lighter falls of 2 to 4mm. Cavendish banana bunch age is currently at 17-18 weeks with this expected to be back to 16-17 weeks by later this month as the weather continues to warm. We continue to see the presence of underpeel chill after previous weeks of cold overnight and morning lows. Sub-ten degree temperatures cause a temporary cessation of sap flow which results in the sub-epidermal layer greying/browning which reflects outward through the peel with the fruit having a dull appearance. Whilst this does impact the fresh appeal of the banana, it in no way negatively impacts the flavour or eating quality of the fruit - in fact, winter grown fruit is normally a little sweeter as it takes longer to grow. We expect to see the presence of underpeel chill and hence dull bloom through until at least the end of November, maybe even extending into December.

Independent retailers were selling bananas at $2.99 to $3.99/kg this week.  The markets all have moderate supplies of cavendish relative to demand with fruit selling at $16-$30 per carton, dependent upon quality and quantity each agent has.

The presentation of Cavendish presented this week continue to reflect the impact of cold growth periods throughout winter with sub 10C temperatures experienced both on the Tablelands and along the coast with less bright and dull bloomed fruit present in varying degrees. There was a presence of minor dry scar; minor neck damage; small rub marks and sap staining.  Some odd clusters found with split peel. Colour varied - slightly backward in some stores; developing to a good yellow hue.

Retail ticket pricing in Queensland on bananas was fairly uniform this week in comparison to the week prior with Aldi’s banana ticket price at $3.49/kg; whilst Woolies offered fruit at $3.50 to $4.00/kg in all three stores frequented and Coles offered fruit at $3.50 to 4.50/kg depending upon the location of the store visited. Fruit was presented neatly on assigned displays, there was a presence of dull fruit to varying degrees, on show in all outlets again this week as can be expected for the next few months.

RETAIL SNAPSHOT OF BANANAS

Below: Coles Carindale, Coles Local Hamilton and Garden City Displays

  • Cavendish was priced at $3.50-4.50/kg dependent upon store location. Kids packs at $3.50-4.50ea.

  • Quality across stores was quite good though some clusters found with minor skin marking. Both minor and major bruising; neck injuries, rub and general scarring also found.

  • Lady Fingers were priced at $7.90/kg. Red Tips at $5.50/kg.

 

Below: Aldi Carindale and Garden City Displays

  • Stores had Cavendish @ $3.49/kg- there was a small presence of some green fruit, light bruising/skin marking and neck damage. Also noted most lines had dull appearance, odd cluster found with split peels.

  • Lady Fingers were priced at $5.99/kg.

 

Below: Woolworths Carindale, Doomben and Garden City Displays

  • Woolworths had Cavendish bananas priced at $3.50-4.00/kg, Lil Sana kids banded clusters at $3.00. Displays were generally well presented whilst again some minor neck damage and light skin marking .

  • Lady fingers were priced at $7.00/kg, Red tips were priced at $5.50/kg and Organic Clusters $6.00/kg

 

2022-Week -35

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QUICKLINKS

AVOCADO OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

In a nutshell the national production figures for last week were as follows: 

·    Week 34 - A total of 446,680 trays were harvested and transported last week which represents an 5% decrease ( approx. 21000 less trays) on Week 33, 2022 production – Central Qld maintained the lead in production accounting for 40% of this volume; followed by Central NSW in second place contributed 19% of this; 15% from South Qld; WA contributed 8%; Tristate 6% and New Zealand at 5.5% of the overall total. The remaining 5.5% is made up of contributions from North Qld, Tamborine, Sunshine Coast and Northern Rivers.

·       It is forecast that a total of 369K trays will be despatched this week nationally. The Hass forecast for the next two to three weeks is for slightly lower quantities of approximately 340K to 350K trays per week. The current four week average dispatch as of this week is 438,499 trays.

Major supermarkets were again relatively close in monetary terms in their offering this week for avocado pricing with premium Hass ticketed at $1.69 to $1.80ea.  Hass market pricing seems to have stabilised with very little change comparative to last week. Prices ranging between $16-$28/tray for premium and a range of $11 -$17/tray for class one.  There continues to be very few bulk Hass on the market currently as what is available is being used for prepacking to service the supermarkets predominantly.

We are supplying Hass grown in the SE corner of Qld from the region of Blackbutt. This region continues to experience some cool overnight/morning temps in recent weeks ranging 1.8-11C and daytimes warming up to 15-20.3C - which makes for some brisk early mornings on the farm leading into glorious days. Our Packing team are working hard to ensure fruit quality is within specification each week. Main fruit sizing continues to be Ct 20-23 - we had intended on packing a little more this week from this region, however the weather had other ideas with rainfall impacting the number of harvestable hours. All going well we look to increase our production by 10-20% throughout the next 6-8 weeks. Our growers from SW NSW, more specifically in the region of Barham are also working hard to ensure specifications are met and that fruit quality is consistent throughout the season - fruit quality from this region has been good with supplies expected for another six weeks.

Hass Avocado display presentation in Qld stores this week was generally pleasing. Fruit age ranged 6 to 20 days from packed date on tray labels that were visible. 

In terms of Avocado retail pricing in Qld shelf prices were as follows:  Aldi Qld had Hass selling this week at a ticket price of $1.69ea in store;  Coles Qld had Central Qld and NQ Hass ticketed at $1.70ea depending upon store location, whilst Woolworths had Central Qld grown Hass selling at $1.70 to $1.80/piece depending upon store location and size of fruit.  The fruit on shelves varied in condition with maturity ranging just yielding to just about ready to eat.

In the graphical depiction below, courtesy of Neilson Harvest to Home data, it is interesting to note that whilst there has definitely been an uptake in both the number of households purchasing the humble avocado (rising by 4%) and indeed the volume being purchased ( an approx. increase of 13%), it is not quite keeping pace with the overall value of the avocado, which is well down for the period 52 weeks to 17 July 2022 (with dollar sales reducing by 25.7%) which can be directly related to industry production levels.

 

RETAIL SNAPSHOTS OF AVOCADOS

Below: Coles Indooroopilly, Toowoomba and Sunnybank Hills Displays

  • Coles stores had Hass avocados priced at $1.70ea. Fruit was well presented - all 7-14 days old and just yielding to firm with respects to maturity.

  • 5pks selling for $7.90ea and 1kg prepacks at $5.00ea

 

Below: Aldi Indooroopilly, Toowoomba and Sunnybank Hills Displays

  • Purpleskin Hass and Greenskin Gmax fruit in counts 23/25 loose @ $1.69 each.

  • Fruit age ranging 6 to 15 days.

  • 5 piece Hass nets at $5.99 and 1kg market packs on special at $4.99ea.

 

Below: Woolworths Indooroopilly, Toowoomba and Sunnybank Hills Displays

  • Stores had Howe Farming (Aus Produce Partners); Simpson Farms(Tinaroo Falls) and Purpleskin Hass avocados at $1.70-1.80 each. All avocados 8-14 days old - some fruit is yielding to gentle pressure.

  • 1kg packs priced at $6.90ea and 5 piece packs at $7.50ea.

 

BANANA OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

National transport figures for last week were approximately 450,000 cartons. As stated last week, we expect overall production to start increasing steadily with each week as the weather is progressively warming with the commencement of spring only a couple of weeks away. As far as weather conditions this week in the far north, early A.M. temperatures ranged 11.3 - 21.5 C across the growing regions - whilst day time temperatures were considerably warmer ranging 22.0 to 28.2C - across the week. In terms of rainfall, both Tully and Innisfail received in the vicinity of 84mm each across the week, whilst the other major growing regions received much lighter falls of 0.6 to 9.2mm. Cavendish banana bunch age is currently at 17 weeks with this expected to be back to 16 weeks by later this month as the weather continues to warm. We continue to see the presence of underpeel chill after previous weeks of cold overnight and morning lows. Sub-ten degree temperatures cause a temporary cessation of sap flow which results in the sub-epidermal layer greying/browning which reflects outward through the peel with the fruit having a dull appearance. Whilst this does impact the fresh appeal of the banana, it in no way negatively impacts the flavour or eating quality of the fruit - in fact, winter grown fruit is normally a little sweeter as it takes longer to grow. We expect to see the presence of underpeel chill and hence dull bloom through until at least the end of November, maybe even extending into December.

Independent retailers were selling bananas at $3.00 to $3.49/kg this week.  The markets all have moderate supplies of cavendish relative to demand with fruit selling at $16-$30 per carton, dependent upon quality and quantity each agent has.

The presentation of Cavendish presented this week reflected the cooler temperatures we have been experiencing both on the Tablelands and along the coast reasonably well with less bright bloomed fruit and a growing presence of fruit with dull bloom of varying degrees. There was a presence of minor dry scar; minor neck damage; as well as bronzing; bruising; small rub marks and sap staining.  Colour varied - slightly backward in some stores; developing to a good yellow hue.

Retail ticket pricing in Queensland on bananas was fairly uniform this week in comparison to the week prior with Aldi’s banana ticket price at $3.49/kg; whilst Woolies offered fruit at $3.50/kg in all three stores frequented and Coles offered fruit at $4.00/kg depending upon the location of the store visited. Fruit was presented neatly on assigned displays, there was a presence of dull fruit to varying degrees, on show in all outlets again this week as can be expected for the next few months.

RETAIL SNAPSHOT OF BANANAS

Below: Coles Indooroopilly, Toowoomba and Sunnybank Hills Displays

  • Cavendish was priced at $4.00/kg. Kids packs at $4.00ea.

  • Quality across stores was quite good though some clusters found with minor skin marking. Both minor and major bruising; neck injuries, rub and general scarring also found.

  • Lady Fingers were priced at $7.90/kg. Red Tips at $5.50/kg.

 

Below: Aldi Indooroopilly, Toowoomba and Sunnybank Hills Displays

  • Stores had Cavendish @ $3.49/kg- there was a small presence of some green fruit, light bruising/skin marking and neck damage.

  • Lady Fingers were priced at $5.99/kg.

 

Below: Woolworths Indooroopilly, Toowoomba and Sunnybank Hills Displays

  • Woolworths had Cavendish bananas priced at $3.50-4.00/kg, Lil Sana kids banded clusters at $3.00. Displays were generally well presented whilst again some minor neck damage and light skin marking - a few odd clusters found spotting.

  • Lady fingers were priced at $7.90/kg, Red tips were priced at $5.50/kg and Organic Clusters $6.00/kg

 

2022-Week -34

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QUICKLINKS

AVOCADO OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

In a nutshell the national production figures for last week were as follows: 

·    Week 33 - A total of 467,886 trays were harvested and transported last week which represents an increase of 11% ( approx. 46500 more trays) on Week 32, 2022 production – Central Qld maintained the lead in production accounting for 50% of this volume; followed by Central NSW in second place contributed 20% of this; 11% from South Qld and North Qld and Tristate both with 6% each whilst WA contributed 5% of the total. The remaining 2% is made up of contributions from Tamborine, Sunshine Coast and Northern Rivers.

·       It is forecast that a total of 438K trays will be despatched this week nationally. The Hass forecast for the next two to three weeks is for slightly lower quantities of approximately 380K to 400K trays per week. The current four week average dispatch as of this week is 416,626 trays.

Major supermarkets were somewhat closer in monetary terms in their offering this week for avocado pricing with premium Hass ticketed at $1.69 to $1.80ea.  Hass market pricing seems to be stabilising with very little change in this area. Prices ranging between $16-$28/tray for premium and a range of $11 -$17/tray for class one.  Having said that, both the Brisbane and Sydney markets have main sales of premium trays within $24-$26 band, Melbourne is holding strong with sales of top premium at $28-$30 currently. There continues to be very few bulk Hass on the market currently as what is available is being used for prepacking to service the supermarkets predominantly.

We are supplying Hass grown in the SE corner of the state from the region of Blackbutt. This region continues to experience some cool overnight/morning temps in recent weeks ranging 3.0-10C and daytimes warming up to 17-24.3C - which makes for some brisk early mornings on the farm leading into glorious days. Our Packing team are working hard to ensure fruit quality is within specification each week. Main fruit sizing continues to be Ct 20-23 - as spring gets underway next week the farm will increase their weekly harvest slightly as demand should also grow with more customers looking for this versatile fruit. Our growers from SW NSW, more specifically in the region of Barham are also working hard to ensure specifications are met and that fruit quality is consistent throughout the season.

Hass Avocado display presentation in Qld stores this week was generally pleasing - though there was a couple of lines with early stage body rot development and blue copper residue noted this week. Fruit age ranged 8 to 20 days from packed date on tray labels that were visible. 

In terms of Avocado retail pricing in Qld shelf prices were as follows:  Aldi Qld had Hass selling this week at a ticket price of $1.69ea in store;  Coles Qld had Central Qld and NQ Hass ticketed at $1.50 to $1.70ea depending upon store location, whilst Woolworths had Central Qld grown Hass selling at $1.50 to $1.80/piece depending upon store location and size of fruit.  The fruit on shelves varied in condition with maturity ranging just yielding to just about ready to eat - the majority of stores had fruit that was firmer this week on average - odd bruising/body rot observed.  

 

RETAIL SNAPSHOTS OF AVOCADOS

Below: Coles Jindalee, Fairfield and Carindale Displays

  • Coles stores had Hass avocados priced at $1.50-1.80ea. Fruit was well presented - all 7-14 days old and just yielding to firm with respects to maturity.

  • 5pks selling for $7.90ea and 1kg prepacks at $6.90ea

 

Below: Aldi Mt Ommaney, Fairfield and Carindale Displays

  • Purpleskin Hass and Greenskin Gmax fruit in counts 23/25 loose @ $1.69 each.

  • Fruit age ranging 6 to 15 days.

  • 5 piece Hass nets at $6.49 and 1kg market packs also at $6.49ea.

 

Below: Woolworths Mt Ommaney, Moorooka and Carindale Displays

  • Stores had Howe Farming (Aus Produce Partners); Simpson Farms(Tinaroo Falls) and Purpleskin Hass avocados at $1.80 each. All avocados 8-14 days old - some fruit is yielding to gentle pressure.

  • 1kg packs priced at $5.00ea and 5 piece packs at $7.50ea.

 

BANANA OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

Whilst National transport figures for last week were approximately 466,000 cartons which is an increase of some 20,000 cartons on the previous week. As stated last week, we expect overall production to start increasing steadily with each week as the weather is progressively warming with the commencement of spring only a couple of weeks away. In the last week however we saw another dip below 10C in early A.M. temperatures with lows of 7.4 - 15.2 C across the growing regions - unfortunately these lows will lengthen the presence of underpeel discolouration coming from all regions. Day time temperatures were considerably warmer ranging 23.0 to 28.9C - across the week. In terms of rainfall, most regions have remained dry in the last week with just Walkamin receiving 0.4mm. We continue to actively pulling back on Cavendish banana bunch age to avoid overfull fruit and subsequent splitting, we are currently at 17-18 weeks bunch age - with the weather continuing to warm bunch age will continue to decrease. We continue to see the presence of underpeel chill after previous weeks of cold overnight and morning lows. Sub-ten degree temperatures cause a temporary cessation of sap flow which results in the sub-epidermal layer greying/browning which reflects outward through the peel with the fruit having a dull appearance. Whilst this does impact the fresh appeal of the banana, it in no way negatively impacts the flavour or eating quality of the fruit - in fact, winter grown fruit is normally a little sweeter as it takes longer to grow. With the most recent cold snap being this week we are likely to see a presence of fruit with dull bloom through until at least the end of November, maybe even extending into December.

Independent retailers were selling bananas at $3.29 to $4.49/kg this week.  The markets all have light to moderate supplies of cavendish relative to demand with fruit selling at $18-$34 per carton, dependent upon quality and quantity each agent has.

The presentation of Cavendish presented this week reflected the cooler temperatures we have been experiencing both on the Tablelands and along the coast reasonably well with less bright bloomed fruit and a growing presence of fruit with dull bloom of varying degrees. There was a presence of minor dry scar; minor neck damage; as well as bronzing; bruising; small rub marks and sap staining.  Colour varied - slightly backward in some stores; developing to a good yellow hue.

Retail ticket pricing in Queensland on bananas was fairly uniform this week in comparison to the week prior with Aldi’s banana ticket price at $4.49/kg at the first store visited which did not have any close comp nearby however in the larger centres Aldi’s ticketed price for bananas was $3.99/kg; whilst Woolies offered fruit at $4.00/kg in all three stores frequented and Coles offered fruit at $4.00-$4.50/kg depending upon the location of the store visited. Fruit was presented neatly on assigned displays, there was a presence of dull fruit to varying degrees, on show in all outlets again this week as can be expected for the next few months.

RETAIL SNAPSHOT OF BANANAS

Below: Coles Jindalee, Fairfield and Carindale Displays

  • Cavendish was priced at $4.00-4.90/kg. Kids packs at $4.00-4.90ea.

  • Quality across stores was quite good though some clusters found with minor skin marking. Both minor and major bruising; neck injuries, rub and general scarring also found.

  • Lady Fingers were priced at $7.90/kg. Red Tips at $5.50/kg.

 

Below: Aldi Mt Ommaney, Fairfield and Carindale Displays

  • Stores had Cavendish @ $3.99-4.49/kg- there was a small presence of some green fruit, light bruising/skin marking and neck damage.

  • Lady Fingers were priced at $6.49/kg.

 

Below: Woolworths Mt Ommaney, Moorooka and Carindale Displays

  • Woolworths had Cavendish bananas priced at $4.00-4.90/kg, Lil Sana kids banded clusters at $3.00. Displays were generally well presented whilst again some minor neck damage and light skin marking - a few odd clusters found spotting.

  • Lady fingers were priced at $7.90/kg, Red tips were priced at $5.50/kg and Organic Clusters $7.50/kg

 

2022-Week -33

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QUICKLINKS

AVOCADO OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

In a nutshell the national production figures for last week were as follows: 

·    Week 32 - A total of 421,333 trays were harvested and transported last week which represents a slight increase of almost 1% ( approx. 3200 more trays) on Week 31, 2022 production – Central Qld maintained the lead in production accounting for 52% of this volume; followed by Central NSW in second place contributed 17% of this; 12% from South Qld and North Qld and WA both with 6.5% each. The remaining 6% is made up of contributions from Tristate; Tamborine, Sunshine Coast and New Zealand have made an entry onto the Australian market.

·       It is forecast that a total of 443K trays will be despatched this week nationally. The Hass forecast for the next two to three weeks is for slightly higher quantities of approximately 410K to 450K trays per week. The current four week average dispatch as of this week is 398,274 trays.

Major supermarkets were varied in their offering this week in terms of avo pricing with premium Hass ticketed at $1.49 to $1.80ea.  Hass market pricing seems to be stabilising somewhat this week. Prices ranging between $16-$29/tray for premium and a range of $11 -$17/tray for class one.  There continues to be very few bulk Hass on the market currently as what is available is being used for prepacking to service the supermarkets predominantly.

We are supplying Hass grown in the SE corner of the state from the region of Blackbutt. This region continues to experience some cool overnight/morning temps in recent weeks ranging 1.0-12.2C and daytimes warming up to 17-20.4C - which makes for some brisk early mornings on the farm leading into glorious days. The outlook for the season from this corner of the state is indeed positive, with fruit quality on the tree looking lovely with average sizing at this stage considered to be Ct 20-23 - the farm has commenced harvesting with packing quantities expected to increase by the end of the month. Our growers from SW NSW, more specifically in the region of Barham are working hard to ensure specifications are met and that fruit quality is consistent.

Hass Avocado display presentation in Qld stores this week was generally pleasing - though there was a low level presence of bruising noted this week. Fruit age ranged 7 to 16 days from packed date on tray labels that were visible. 

In terms of Avocado retail pricing in Qld shelf prices were as follows:  Aldi Qld had Hass selling this week at a ticket price of $1.49ea in store;  Coles Qld had Central Qld and NQ Hass ticketed at $1.50- $1.80ea depending upon store location, whilst Woolworths had Central Qld grown Hass selling at $1.50 to $1.80/piece depending upon store location and size of fruit.  The fruit on shelves varied in condition with maturity ranging just yielding to just about ready to eat - a few displays had some very ripe, light weight fruit with bruising.  

 

RETAIL SNAPSHOTS OF AVOCADOS

Below: Coles Indooroopilly, Fairfield and Cooparoo Displays

  • Coles stores had Hass avocados priced at $1.50-1.80ea. Fruit was well presented - all 7-14 days old and just yielding to firm with respects to maturity.

  • 5pks selling for $7.90ea and 1kg prepacks at $6.90ea

 

Below: Aldi Indooroopilly, Fairfield and Cooparoo Displays

  • Purpleskin Hass and Greenskin Gmax fruit in counts 23/25 loose @ $1.49 each.

  • Fruit age ranging 6 to 15 days.

  • 5 piece Hass nets at $6.49 and 1kg market packs also at $6.49ea.

 

Below: Woolworths Indooroopilly, Moorooka and Cooparoo Displays

  • Stores had Howe Farming (Aus Produce Partners); Simpson Farms(Tinaroo Falls) and Purpleskin Hass avocados at $1.80 each. All avocados 8-14 days old - some fruit is yielding to gentle pressure.

  • 1kg packs priced at $5.00ea and 5 piece packs at $7.50ea.

 

BANANA OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

Whilst National transport figures for last week were approximately 447,000 cartons which is an increase of some 55,000 cartons on the previous week. As stated last week, we expect overall production to start increasing steadily with each week as the weather is progressively warming with the commencement of spring only a couple of weeks away. In the last week however we saw another sharp dip in early A.M. temperatures with lows of 6.6 - 10.8 C across the growing regions - unfortunately these lows will lengthen the presence of underpeel discolouration coming from all regions. Day time temperatures were considerably warmer ranging 22.1 to 29.2C - across the week. In terms of rainfall, most regions had minimal falls ranging 0 to 8.8mm across the week with Tully and Innisfail each receiving rainfall at the upper end of this range. We are actively pulling back on Cavendish banana bunch age as we were receiving reports that our fruit was found to be splitting, we are currently at 17-18 weeks bunch age - with the weather continuing to warm bunch age will continue to decrease. We continue to see the presence of underpeel chill after previous weeks of cold overnight and morning lows. Sub-ten degree temperatures cause a temporary cessation of sap flow which results in the sub-epidermal layer greying/browning which reflects outward through the peel with the fruit having a dull appearance. Whilst this does impact the fresh appeal of the banana, it in no way negatively impacts the flavour or eating quality of the fruit - in fact, winter grown fruit is normally a little sweeter as it takes longer to grow. With the most recent cold snap being this week we are likely to see a presence of fruit with dull bloom through until at least the end of November, maybe even extending into December.

Independent retailers were selling bananas at $3.29 to $4.99/kg this week.  The markets all have light to moderate supplies of cavendish relative to demand with fruit selling at $16-$30 per carton, dependent upon quality and quantity each agent has.

The presentation of Cavendish presented this week reflected the cooler temperatures we have been experiencing both on the Tablelands and along the coast reasonably well with less bright bloomed fruit and a growing presence of fruit with dull bloom of varying degrees. A few lines were found to have the odd split peel on show. There was a presence of minor dry scar; minor neck damage; as well as bronzing; bruising; small rub marks and sap staining.  Colour varied - slightly backward in some stores; developing to a good yellow hue.

Retail ticket pricing in Queensland on bananas was fairly uniform this week in comparison to the week prior with Aldi’s banana ticket price at $4.49/kg; whilst Woolies offered fruit at $4.00-$4.90/kg and Coles also offered fruit at $4.00-$4.90/kg depending upon the location of the store visited. Fruit was presented neatly on assigned displays, there was a presence of dull fruit to varying degrees, on show in all outlets this week.

RETAIL SNAPSHOT OF BANANAS

Below: Coles Indooroopilly, Fairfield and Cooparoo Displays

  • Cavendish was priced at $4.00-4.90/kg. Kids packs at $4.00-4.90ea.

  • Quality across stores was quite good though some clusters found with minor skin marking. Both minor and major bruising; neck injuries, rub and general scarring also found.

  • Lady Fingers were priced at $7.90/kg. Red Tips at $5.50/kg.

 

Below: Aldi Indooroopilly, Fairfield and Cooparoo Displays

  • Stores had Cavendish @ $4.49/kg- there was a small presence of some green fruit, light bruising/skin marking and neck damage.

  • Lady Fingers were priced at $6.49/kg.

 

Below: Woolworths Indooroopilly, Moorooka and Cooparoo Displays

  • Woolworths had Cavendish bananas priced at $4.00-4.90/kg, Lil Sana kids banded clusters at $3.00. Displays were generally well presented whilst again some minor neck damage and light skin marking - a few odd clusters found spotting.

  • Lady fingers were priced at $7.90/kg, Red tips were priced at $5.50/kg and Organic Clusters $7.50/kg

 

2022-Week -32

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QUICKLINKS

AVOCADO OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

In a nutshell the national production figures for last week were as follows: 

·    Week  31 - A total of 418,096 trays were harvested and transported last week which represents an increase of 16% ( approx. 59,000 more trays) on Week 30, 2022 production – Central Qld maintained the lead in production accounting for 62% of this volume; followed by Central NSW in second place contributed 13% of this; 11% from South Qld and North Qld 7%. The remaining 14% is made up of contributions from WA, Tristate; Tamborine and Sunshine Coast. Whilst our farm have finished harvesting for the 2022 season, there is work to be done, as any good farmer knows, so now we continue working on the orchard so that we can do it all again for 2023.

·       It is forecast that a total of 381K trays will be despatched this week nationally. The Hass forecast for the next two to three weeks is for slightly higher quantities of approximately 390K to 420K trays per week. The current four week average dispatch as of this week is 400,325 trays.

Major supermarkets were varied in their offering this week in terms of avo pricing with premium Hass ticketed at $1.20 to $1.50ea.  Hass market pricing seems to be stabilising somewhat this week. Prices ranging between $16-$28/tray for premium and a range of $11 -$17/tray for class one.  There continues to be very few bulk Hass on the market currently as what is available is being used for prepacking to service the supermarkets predominantly.

We are supplying Hass grown in the SE corner of the state from the region of Blackbutt. This region has also experienced some cool overnight/morning temps in recent weeks ranging 2.1-11.4C and daytimes warming up to 18.3-24.6C. The outlook for the season from this corner of the state is indeed positive, with fruit quality on the tree looking lovely with average sizing at this stage considered to be Ct 20-23 - the farm has commenced harvesting and packing through a certified Packhouse. We are also working with a couple of growers from SW NSW who likewise have commenced harvesting their crop and are working hard to make it a great season.

Hass Avocado display presentation in Qld stores this week was generally pleasing Fruit age ranged 9 to 12 days from tray labels that were visible. 

In terms of Avocado retail pricing in Qld shelf prices were as follows:  Aldi Qld had Hass selling this week at a ticket price of $1.49ea in store;  Coles Qld had Central Qld and NQ Hass ticketed at $1.50ea depending upon store location, whilst Woolworths had Central Qld grown Hass selling at $1.20/piece depending upon store location.  The fruit on shelves varied in condition with maturity ranging just yielding to just about ready to eat. 

 

RETAIL SNAPSHOTS OF AVOCADOS

Below: Coles Indooroopilly, Fairfield and Browns Plains Displays

  • Coles stores had Hass avocados priced at $1.50ea. Fruit was well presented - all 7-14 days old and just yielding to firm with respects to maturity.

  • 5pks selling for $7.90ea and 1kg prepacks at $6.90ea

 

Below: Aldi Indooroopilly, Fairfield and Browns Plains Displays

  • Purpleskin Hass and Greenskin Gmax fruit in counts 23/25 loose @ $1.49 each.

  • Fruit age ranging 6 to 15 days.

  • 5 piece Hass nets at $5.99 and 1kg market packs also at $5.99ea.

 

Below: Woolworths Indooroopilly, Moorooka and Browns Plains Displays

  • Stores had Howe Farming (Aus Produce Partners); Simpson Farms(Tinaroo Falls) and Purpleskin Hass avocados at $1.20 each. All avocados 8-14 days old - some fruit is yielding to gentle pressure.

  • 1kg packs priced at $5.00ea and 5 piece packs at $6.00ea.

 

BANANA OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

Whilst National transport figures for last week were approximately 392,000 cartons, we expect overall production to start increasing steadily with each week as the weather is gradually warming with the commencement of spring just weeks away. In the last week, morning temperatures have been moderate for this time of year in North Qld with minimums falling within a range of 11.6- to 20.8C; whilst day time temperatures have started to lift with a top of 31.8C -within a range of 22 to 31.8C. In terms of rainfall, most regions had minimal falls ranging 0 to 10.2mm across the week; with Tully and Innisfail each receiving rainfall at the upper end of this range. We are actively pulling back on Cavendish banana bunch age as we have received a few reports that our fruit was found to be splitting, we are currently at 18 weeks bunch age - with the weather continuing to warm bunch age will continue to decrease. We continue to see the presence of underpeel chill after previous weeks of cold overnight and morning lows. Sub-ten degree temperatures cause a temporary cessation of sap flow which results in the sub-epidermal layer greying/browning which reflects outward through the peel with the fruit having a dull appearance. Whilst this does impact the fresh appeal of the banana, it in no way negatively impacts the flavour or eating quality of the fruit - in fact, winter grown fruit is normally a little sweeter as it takes longer to grow. With the most recent cold snap being early August we are likely to see a presence of fruit with dull bloom through until at least the end of November.

Independent retailers were selling bananas at $3.29 to $4.99/kg this week.  The markets all have light to moderate supplies of cavendish relative to demand with fruit selling at $16-$30 per carton, dependent upon quality and quantity each agent has.

The presentation of Cavendish presented this week reflected the cooler temperatures we have been experiencing both on the Tablelands and along the coast reasonably well with less bright bloomed fruit and a growing presence of fruit with dull bloom of varying degrees. A few lines were found to have the odd split peel on show. There was a presence of minor dry scar; minor neck damage; as well as bronzing; bruising; small rub marks and sap staining.  Colour varied - slightly backward in some stores; developing to a good yellow hue.

Retail ticket pricing in Queensland on bananas was fairly uniform this week in comparison to the week prior with Aldi’s banana ticket price at $3.99/kg; whilst Woolies offered fruit at $4.00/kg and Coles also offered fruit at $4.00/kg in the stores visited. Fruit was presented neatly on assigned displays, there was a presence of dull fruit on show in all outlets this week.

RETAIL SNAPSHOT OF BANANAS

Below: Coles Indooroopilly, Fairfield and Browns Plains Displays

  • Cavendish was priced at $4.00/kg. Kids packs at $4.00ea.

  • Quality across stores was quite good though some clusters found with minor skin marking. Both minor and major bruising; neck injuries, rub and general scarring also found.

  • Lady Fingers were priced at $7.90/kg. Red Tips at $5.50/kg.

 

Below: Aldi Indooroopilly, Fairfield and Browns Plains Displays

  • Stores had Cavendish @ $3.99/kg- there was a small presence of some green fruit, light bruising/skin marking and neck damage.

  • Lady Fingers were priced at $6.49/kg.

 

Below: Woolworths Indooroopilly, Moorooka and Browns Plains Displays

  • Woolworths had Cavendish bananas priced at $4.00/kg, Lil Sana kids banded clusters at $3.00. Displays were generally well presented whilst again some minor neck damage and light skin marking - a few odd clusters found spotting.

  • Lady fingers were priced at $7.90/kg, Red tips were priced at $5.50/kg and Organic Clusters $5.50/kg

 

2022-Week -31

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QUICKLINKS

AVOCADO OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

In a nutshell the national production figures for last week were as follows: 

·    Week 30 - A total of 359,192 trays were harvested and transported last week which represents a decrease of 13% ( approx. 55,000 trays fewer) on Week 29, 2022 production – Central Qld maintained the lead in production accounting for 55.8% of this volume and North Qld in second place contributed 19.75% of this; 9.48% from Central NSW and 9.85% from South Qld. The remaining 5.12% is made up of contributions from WA, Northern Rivers/Tamborine and Sunshine Coast. Whilst our farm have finished harvesting for the 2022 season, there is work to be done, as any good farmer knows, so now we continue working on the orchard so that we can do it all again for 2023.

·       It is forecast that a total of 355K trays will be despatched this week nationally. The Hass forecast for the next two to three weeks is for slightly higher quantities of approximately 378K to 400K trays per week. The current four week average dispatch as of this week is 359,530 trays.

Major supermarkets were varied in their offering this week in terms of avo pricing with premium Hass ticketed at $1.29 to $1.60ea.  Hass market pricing has increased slightly again this week. Prices ranging between $12-$22/tray for premium and a range of $10 -$15/tray for class one.  There continues to be very few bulk Hass on the market currently as what is available is being used for prepacking to service the supermarkets predominantly.

Whilst the NQ Avocado season has sadly come to a close, due to the marvellous geographical spread of this great Nation of ours and conducive growing conditions we will continue supplying Hass avocados. Next we will be supplying Hass grown in the SE corner of the state commencing in the next week to two weeks, from the region of Blackbutt. This region has also experienced some cool overnight/morning temps in recent weeks ranging 1.9-9.7C and daytimes warming up to 18-24C. The outlook for the season from this corner of the state is indeed positive, with fruit quality on the tree looking lovely with average sizing at this stage considered to be Ct 20-23 - the farm had a trial harvest this week with the first pack being undertaken by a certified Packhouse to test the system; which proved successful. Harvest will get underway next week with a steady stream of fruit to come from this region for the next few months. We are also working with a couple of growers from SW NSW who likewise are commencing their harvest this week…….. so exciting times ahead.

Hass Avocado display presentation in Qld stores this week was generally pleasing Fruit age ranged 7 to 9 days from tray labels that were visible. 

In terms of Avocado retail pricing in Qld shelf prices were as follows:  Aldi Qld had Hass selling this week at a ticket price of $1.29ea in store;  Coles Qld had NQ Hass ticketed at $1.20 to $1.60ea depending upon store location, whilst Woolworths Qld had Hass selling at $1.20-$1.50/piece depending upon store location.  The fruit on shelves varied in condition with maturity ranging just yielding to just about ready to eat. 

 

RETAIL SNAPSHOTS OF AVOCADOS

Below: Coles Cannon Hill, Garden City and Sunnybank Hills Displays

  • Coles stores had Hass avocados priced at $1.20-1.60ea. Fruit was well presented - all 7-14 days old and just yielding to firm with respects to maturity.

  • 5pks selling for $7.90ea.

 

Below: Aldi Cannon Hill, Garden City and Sunnybank Hills Displays

  • Purpleskin Hass and Greenskin Gmax fruit in counts 23/25 loose @ $1.29 each.

  • Fruit age ranging 6 to 15 days.

  • 5 piece Hass nets at $4.99 and 1kg market packs also at $4.99ea.

 

Below: Woolworths Cannon Hill, Garden City and Sunnybank Hills Displays

  • Stores had Howe Farming (Aus Produce Partners); Simpson Farms(Tinaroo Falls) and Purpleskin Hass avocados at $1.20-1.50 each. All avocados 8-14 days old - some fruit is yielding to gentle pressure.

  • 1kg packs priced at $4.50ea and 5 piece packs at $6.00ea..

 

BANANA OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

Whilst National transport figures for last week were approximately 400,000 cartons, we don’t expect overall production to increase greatly until we hit warmer weather with the commencement of spring. In the last week, morning temperatures have been moderate for this time of year in North Qld with minimums falling within a range of 11.5- to 19.9C; whilst day time temperatures have only seen a top of 26.8C -within a range of 21.6 to 26.8C across the week which for NQld is on average slightly cooler than last week. In terms of rainfall, most regions had minimal falls ranging 0.2 to 5.2mm across the week with Innisfail being the exception receiving a total o 15mm. Cavendish banana bunch age is now falling in the vicinity of 16-17 weeks, with fruit quality generally good overall in our packshed though bloom has been negatively impacted by recent cold weather and hence we continue to see the presence of underpeel chill after previous weeks of cold overnight and morning lows. Sub-ten degree temperatures cause a temporary cessation of sap flow which results in the sub-epidermal layer greying/browning which reflects outward through the peel with the fruit having a dull appearance. Whilst this does impact the fresh appeal of the banana, it in no way negatively impacts the flavour or eating quality of the fruit - in fact, winter grown fruit is normally a little sweeter as it takes longer to grow.

Independent retailers were selling bananas at $2.99 to $3.99/kg this week.  The markets all have light to moderate supplies of cavendish relative to demand with fruit selling at $15-$29 per carton, dependent upon quality and quantity each agent has.

The presentation of Cavendish presented this week reflected the cooler temperatures we have been experiencing both on the Tablelands and along the coast reasonably well with less bright bloomed fruit and a growing presence of fruit with dull bloom of varying degrees. There was a presence of minor dry scar; minor neck damage; as well as bronzing; bruising; small rub marks and sap staining.  Colour varied - slightly backward in some stores; developing to a good yellow hue.

Retail ticket pricing in Queensland on bananas was fairly uniform this week in comparison to the week prior with Aldi’s banana ticket price at $3.49/kg; whilst Woolies offered fruit $3.50 to $4.00/kg and Coles also offered fruit at $3.50 to $3.80/kg depending upon location of the stores visited. Fruit was presented neatly on assigned displays, there was a presence of dull fruit on show in all outlets this week.

RETAIL SNAPSHOT OF BANANAS

Below: Coles Cannon Hill, Garden City and Sunnybank Hills Displays

  • Cavendish was priced at $3.50 to $3.80/kg. Kids packs at $3.50 to $3.80ea.

  • Quality across stores was quite good though some clusters found with minor skin marking. Both minor and major bruising; neck injuries, rub and general scarring also found.

  • Lady Fingers were priced at $7.90/kg. Red Tips at $4.90-5.50/kg.

 

Below: Aldi Cannon Hill, Garden City and Sunnybank Hills Displays

  • Stores had Cavendish @ $3.49/kg- there was a small presence of some green fruit, light bruising/skin marking and neck damage.

  • Lady Fingers were priced at $6.49/kg.

 

Below: Woolworths Cannon Hill, Garden City and Sunnybank Hills Displays

  • Woolworths had Cavendish bananas priced at $3.50-4.00/kg, Lil Sana kids banded clusters at $3.00. Displays were generally well presented whilst again some minor neck damage and light skin marking - a few odd clusters found spotting.

  • Lady fingers were priced at $7.90/kg, Red tips were priced at $5.50/kg and Organic Clusters $5.50/kg

 

2022-Week -30

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QUICKLINKS

AVOCADO OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

In a nutshell the national production figures for last week were as follows: 

·    Week 29 - A total of 414,082 trays were harvested and transported last week which represents a decrease of 3.6% ( or just over 15,000 trays) on Week 29, 2022 production – Central Qld maintained the lead in production accounting for 53% of this volume and North Qld in second place contributed 26% of this; 9% from Central NSW and 8% from South Qld. The remaining 4% is made up of contributions from WA (yes that’s right, a low volume is already trickling in) Northern Rivers/Tamborine and Sunshine Coast. This week we should finalise the harvest of Rock Ridge Farming fruit - the team have worked hard to deliver on quantity and quality each week. As far as the quality of our fruit is concerned, it has been an excellent season with numerous industry reports finding our fruit scoring well above average.

·       It is forecast that a total of 367K trays will be despatched this week nationally. The Hass forecast for the next two weeks to three weeks is for similar quantities of approximately 350K to 360K trays per week. The current four week average dispatch as of this week is 376,652 trays.

Major supermarkets were united in terms of avo pricing this week with premium Hass ticketed at $0.99 to $1.20ea .  Hass market pricing has increase slightly this week. Prices ranging between $10-$20/tray for premium and a range of $8 -$12/tray for class one.  There continues to be very few bulk Hass on the market currently as what is available is being used for prepacking to service the supermarkets predominantly.

The weather in North Qld for our avocado crop has seen daytime temperatures ranging 10 to 27C whilst there have been some cool mornings on the Tablelands. We will soon be starting with Hass grown in the SE corner of the state, namely Blackbutt, who have also experience some cool overnight/morning temps in recent weeks ranging 5-12C and daytimes warming up to 19-22C. The outlook for the season from this corner of the state is indeed positive, with fruit quality on the tree looking lovely with average sizing at this stage considered to be Ct 20-23 - harvesting should commence next week.

Avocado display presentation in Qld stores this week was generally pleasing Fruit age ranged 8 to 16 days. 

In terms of Avocado retail pricing in Qld shelf prices were as follows:  Aldi Qld had Hass selling this week at a ticket price of $0.99ea in store though the catalogue price had fruit at $1.19ea;  Coles Qld had NQ Hass ticketed at $1.20ea, whilst Woolworths Qld had Hass selling at $1.00 to $1.20/piece depending upon store location.  The fruit on shelves varied in condition with maturity ranging just yielding to just about ready to eat. 

 

RETAIL SNAPSHOTS OF AVOCADOS

Below: Coles Beenleigh, Garden City and Indooroopilly Displays

  • Coles stores had Hass avocados priced at $1.20ea. Fruit was well presented - all 7-14 days old and just yielding to firm with respects to maturity.

  • 1kg I’m Perfect packs at $4.00ea and 5pks selling for $6.00ea.

 

Below: Aldi Beenleigh, Garden City and Indooroopilly Displays

  • Purpleskin Hass and Greenskin Gmax fruit in counts 23/25 loose @ $0.99 each.

  • Fruit age ranging 6 to 15 days.

  • 5 piece Hass nets at $4.49 and 1kg market packs also at $4.49ea.

 

Below: Woolworths Beenleigh, Garden City and Indooroopilly Displays

  • Stores had Howe Farming (Aus Produce Partners); Simpson Farms(Tinaroo Falls) and Purpleskin Hass avocados at $1.00-1.20 each. All avocados 8-14 days old - some fruit is yielding to gentle pressure.

  • 1kg packs priced at $4.00ea and 5 piece packs at $5.00ea..

 

BANANA OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

National transport figures for last week was 389,472 cartons, a decrease of 5.5% on the previous week or some 22,899 fewer cartons. In the last week, morning temperatures have been noticeably cooler - winter has finally come to North Qld with minimums falling within a range of 10.8- to 19.1C; whilst day time temperatures have only seen a top of 27.8C -within a range of 23 to 27.8C across the week which for NQld is slightly warmer than recent weeks. The weather has continued to have cool overnight temps and early mornings of 10.8-12.5C.   In terms of rainfall, most regions had minimal falls ranging 0.4 to 1.6mm across the week. Cavendish banana bunch age is now falling in the vicinity of 16-17 weeks, with fruit quality generally good overall in our packshed though we now seeing the presence of underpeel chill after previous weeks of cold overnight and morning lows as well as some light scarring. Fruit bloom will be impacted by the weather we have been experiencing - such lows cause a temporary cessation of sap flow which results in the sub-epidermal layer greying/browning which reflects outward through the peel with the fruit having a dull appearance. Whilst this does impact the fresh appeal of the banana, it in no way negatively impacts the flavour or eating quality of the fruit - in fact, winter grown fruit is normally a little sweeter as it takes longer to grow.

Independent retailers were selling bananas at $2.99 to $3.49/kg this week.  The markets all have moderate supplies of cavendish relative to demand with fruit selling at $14-$28 per carton, dependent upon quality and quantity each agent has.

The presentation of Cavendish presented this week reflected the cooler temperatures we have been experiencing both on the Tablelands and along the coast reasonably well with less bright bloomed fruit and a growing presence of fruit with dull bloom of varying degrees. There was a presence of minor dry scar; minor neck damage; as well as bronzing; bruising; small rub marks and sap staining.  Colour was generally good.

Retail ticket pricing in Queensland on bananas was fairly uniform this week in comparison to the week prior with Aldi’s banana ticket price at $3.49/kg; whilst Woolies offered fruit $3.50/kg and Coles also offered fruit at $3.50/kg depending upon location of the stores visited. Fruit was presented neatly on assigned displays, there was a presence of dull fruit on show in all outlets this week.

RETAIL SNAPSHOT OF BANANAS

Below: Coles Beenleigh, Garden City and Indooroopilly Displays

  • Cavendish was priced at $2.98-3.50/kg. Kids packs at $3.50ea.

  • Quality across stores was quite good though some clusters found with minor skin marking. Both minor and major bruising; neck injuries, rub and general scarring also found.

  • Lady Fingers were priced at $7.90/kg. Red Tips at $5.50/kg.

 

Below: Aldi Beenleigh, Garden City and Indooroopilly Displays

  • Stores had Cavendish @ $3.49/kg- there was a small presence of some green fruit, light bruising/skin marking and neck damage.

  • Lady Fingers were priced at $6.49/kg.

 

Below: Woolworths Beenleigh, Garden City and Indooroopilly Displays

  • Woolworths had Cavendish bananas priced at $3.50/kg, Lil Sana kids banded clusters at $2.50. Displays were generally well presented whilst again some minor neck damage and light skin marking - a few odd clusters found spotting.

  • Lady fingers were priced at $7.90/kg, Red tips were priced at $5.50/kg and Organic Clusters $5.50/kg

 

2022-Week -28

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QUICKLINKS

AVOCADO OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

In a nutshell the national production figures for last week were as follows: 

·    Week 27 - A MUCH LIGHTER HARVEST OF 254,918 trays LAST WEEK and consigned this week which represents a significant decrease of 38% ( or just over 153,000 trays) on Week 26, 2022 production – Central Qld maintained the lead in production accounting for 56% of this volume and North Qld in second place contributed 30% of this; 7% from Central NSW and 4% from South Qld. The remaining 3% is made up of contributions from WA (yes that’s right, a low volume is already trickling in) Northern Rivers/Tamborine and Sunshine Coast.

·       It is forecast that a total of 347K trays will be despatched this week nationally. The Hass forecast for the next two weeks to three weeks is for between 360K to 375K trays per week. The current four week average dispatch as of this week is 365,533 trays.

Major supermarkets were united in terms of avo pricing this week with premium Hass ticketed at $0.9 to $1.00ea .  Hass market pricing has remained relatively steady this week. Prices ranging between $10-$18/tray for premium and a range of $6 -$10/tray for class one.  There continues to be very few bulk Hass on the market currently as what is available is being used for prepacking to service the supermarkets predominantly.

The weather in North Qld for our avocado crop has seen daytime temperatures ranging 8 to 25C whilst there have been some frosty mornings on the Tablelands with sub-zero temperatures experienced in low lying areas on a few mornings. Fruit quality from our packing shed has been good and we are still harvesting a major proportion of our crop in the count 14-18 sizing.

Avocado display presentation in Qld stores this week was generally pleasing though some of the hass had a low level presence of light lenticel/nodule damage relating to recent rain in the growing region. Fruit age ranged 6 to 14 days. 

In terms of Avocado retail pricing in Qld shelf prices were as follows:  Aldi Qld had Hass and Gmax avos selling this week at a ticket price of only $0.99ea as featured in their weekly catalogue;  Coles Qld had NQ Hass ticketed at $1.00ea, and Gmax selling at $2.00ea; whilst Woolworths Qld had larger counts Hass selling at $1.00-$1.20/piece depending upon store location and Gmax selling at $2.00ea to $2.20ea.  The fruit on shelves varied in condition with maturity ranging just yielding to soft (especially amongst the hass, any piece with a dull hue and sun blemish tended to be quite soft). 

 

RETAIL SNAPSHOTS OF AVOCADOS

Below: Coles Carindale, Browns Plains and Garden City Displays

  • Coles stores had Hass avocados priced at $1.00ea and were also stocking Greenskins Gmax avos selling at $2.00 ea. Fruit was well presented - all 7-14 days old and just yielding to firm with respects to maturity.

  • 1kg I’m Perfect packs at $5.00ea and 5pks selling for $5.00ea.

 

Below: Aldi Carindale, Browns Plains and Garden City Displays

  • Purpleskin Hass and Greenskin Gmax fruit in counts 23/25 loose @ $0.99 each.

  • Fruit age ranging 6 to 15 days.

  • 5 piece Hass nets at $4.49 and 1kg market packs also at $4.49ea.

 

Below: Woolworths Carindale, Browns Plains and Garden City Displays

  • Stores had Howe Farming (Aus Produce Partners); Simpson Farms(Tinaroo Falls) and Purpleskin Hass avocados at $1.00-1.20 each and Greenskin Gmax avocados at $2.00 each. All avocados 8-14 days old - some fruit is yielding to gentle pressure.

  • 1kg packs priced at $5.00ea and 5 piece packs at $5.00ea..

 

BANANA OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

National transport figures for last week was 394,533 cartons, a decrease of 3.1% on the previous week or some 12,585 fewer cartons. In the last week, morning temperatures have been noticeably cooler - winter has finally come to North Qld with minimums falling within a range of 8.6.0- to 15.9C; whilst day time temperatures have only seen a top of 25C -within a range of 21.2 to 25C across the week which for NQld is indeed mild. The weather has continued to be cool this week with some record breaking lows of -3.6C experienced on the Tablelands this week and the presence of frosts in low lying areas. In terms of rainfall, all regions were much drier with minimal falls of 0.2-0.8mm throughout the week. Cavendish banana bunch age is still in the vicinity of 15-16 weeks, with fruit quality generally good overall in our packshed though we continue to grade out some light scarring. Fruit bloom will be impacted by the weather we have been experiencing last week and this week - such lows cause a temporary cessation of sap flow which results in the sub-epidermal layer greying/browning which reflects outward through the peel with the fruit having a dull appearance. Whilst this does impact the fresh appeal of the banana, it in no way negatively impacts the flavour or eating quality of the fruit - in fact, winter grown fruit is normally a little sweeter as it takes longer to grow.

Independent retailers were selling bananas at $2.49 to $3.29/kg this week.  The markets all have moderate supplies of cavendish relative to demand with fruit selling at $10-$26 per carton, dependent upon quality and quantity each agent has.

The presentation of Cavendish presented reasonably well and fruit generally exhibiting good bloom - few odd clusters starting to show a presence of dull peel but believed not to be due to growing conditions at this stage. There was a presence of minor dry scar; minor neck damage; as well as bronzing; bruising; small rub marks and sap staining.  Colour was generally good.

Retail ticket pricing in Queensland on bananas was fairly uniform this week in comparison to the week prior with Aldi’s banana ticket price at $2.99/kg; whilst Woolies offered fruit $3.00/kg and Coles also offered fruit at $3.00/kg depending upon location of the stores visited. Fruit was presenting well with bright bloom and just minor skin marking.

RETAIL SNAPSHOT OF BANANAS

Below: Coles Carindale, Browns Plains and Garden City Displays

  • Cavendish was priced at $3.00/kg. Kids packs at $3.00ea.

  • Quality across stores was quite good though some clusters found with minor skin marking. Both minor and major bruising; neck injuries, rub and general scarring also found.

  • Lady Fingers were priced at $7.90/kg. Red Tips at $4.90/kg.

 

Below: Aldi Carindale, Browns Plains and Garden City Displays

  • Stores had Cavendish @ $2.99/kg- there was a small presence of some green fruit, light bruising/skin marking and neck damage.

  • Lady Fingers were priced at $5.99/kg.

 

Below: Woolworths Carindale, Browns Plains and Garden City Displays

  • Woolworths had Cavendish bananas priced at $3.00/kg, Lil Sana kids banded clusters at $2.50. Displays were generally well presented whilst again some minor neck damage and light skin marking - a few odd clusters found spotting.

  • Lady fingers were priced at $7.90/kg, Red tips were priced at $4.90/kg and Organic Clusters $5.50/kg

 

2022-Week -27

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QUICKLINKS

AVOCADO OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

In a nutshell the national production figures for last week were as follows: 

·    Week 26 - 408,074 trays harvested and consigned this week which represents a moderate increase of 9% ( or almost 35,000 trays) on Week 25, 2022 production – last week saw a lead change in terms of production with Central Qld accounting for 48% and North Qld slipping to second, accounting for 40% of this; with 5% from South Qld. The remaining 7% is made up of contributions from WA (yes that’s right, a low volume is already trickling in) Central NSW and Northern Rivers/Tamborine and Sunny coast.

·       It is forecast that a total of 289K trays will be despatched this week nationally. The Hass forecast for the next two weeks to three weeks is for between 335K to 370K trays per week. The current four week average dispatch as of this week is 402,380 trays.

Major supermarkets were quite varied in their approach to avo pricing this week with premium Hass ticketed at $1.00 to $1.50ea .  Hass market pricing has tidied up somewhat with an improvement in pricing of $1 to $2 per tray after the “blood bath” that was last week within the market. Prices ranging between $10-$18/tray for premium and a range of $6 -$10/tray for class one.  There continues to be very few bulk Hass on the market currently as what is available is being used for prepacking to service the supermarkets predominantly.

The weather in North Qld for our avocado crop has seen daytime temperatures ranging 12 to 27C with rather heavy falls last week in all growing regions associated with the tropical lows and cold snap being experienced down the east coast. Fruit quality from our packing shed has been good and we are still harvesting a major proportion of our crop in the count 14-18 sizing. A light presence of lenticel damage is noted but we continue to grade out anything with heavier marking to ensure fruit is in spec at store level.

Avocado display presentation in Qld stores this week was generally pleasing though some of the hass had a low level presence of light to moderate lenticel/nodule damage relating to recent rain in the growing region and a couple of lines with blackened skin areas indicating body rot. Fruit age ranged 6 to 14 days.  A few of the GMAX avos were found to be soft with bruising.

In terms of Avocado retail pricing in Qld shelf prices were as follows:  Aldi Qld had Hass and Gmax avos selling this week at a ticket price of only $1.19ea;  Coles Qld had NQ Hass ticketed at $1.00ea, and Gmax selling at $2.00ea; whilst Woolworths Qld had larger counts Hass selling at $1.00-$1.40/piece depending upon store location and Gmax selling at $2.00ea to $2.20ea.  The fruit on shelves varied in condition with maturity ranging very firm to yielding - some soft fruit also present which tended to indicate age.

 

RETAIL SNAPSHOTS OF AVOCADOS

Below: Coles Displays

  • Coles stores had Hass avocados priced at $1.00ea and were also stocking Greenskins Gmax avos selling at $2.20 ea. Fruit was well presented - all 7-14 days old and just yielding to firm with respects to maturity.

  • 1kg I’m Perfect packs at $5.00ea and 5pks selling for $5.00ea.

 

Below: Aldi Displays

  • Purpleskin Hass and Greenskin Gmax fruit in counts 23/25 loose @ $0.99-$1.19 each.

  • Fruit age ranging 6 to 15 days.

  • 5 piece Hass nets at $4.49 and 1kg market packs also at $4.49ea.

 

Below: Woolworths Displays

  • Stores had Howe Farming (Aus Produce Partners); Simpson Farms(Tinaroo Falls) and Purpleskin Hass avocados at $1.00 each and Greenskin Gmax avocados at $2.00 each. All avocados 8-14 days old - some fruit is yielding to gentle pressure.

  • 1kg packs priced at $3.90ea and 5 piece packs at $5.00ea..

 

BANANA OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

National transport figures for last week was 407,118 cartons, an increase of 7.2% on the previous week or some 27,000 additional cartons. In the last week, morning temperatures have been noticeably cooler falling within a range of 12.0- to 20.5C; whilst day time temperatures have been similar to last week with a top of 27.6C -within a range of 16.2 to 27.65C across the week which for NQld is mild.  In terms of rainfall, all regions had plentiful rain as did most of the state and NSW. Mareeba received some 94mm, Walkamin 136.7mm; whilst Tully and Innisfail had falls across the week totalling 225 to 250mm. With these weather patterns industry - farm work varied according to conditions on any given day in the week. Cavendish banana bunch age is still in the vicinity of 15-16 weeks, with fruit quality generally good overall in our packshed though we continue to grade out some light scarring. Fruit bloom at this stage is still bright but as the weather continues to cool; not only will we will see bunch age increase over the coming weeks but we may now start seeing a dulling/greying of fruit appearance. This is due to cold temperatures (usually under 10C for a few hours) causing a slowing or temporary cessation of sap flow which results in the sub-epidermal layer browning/greying which reflects outward through the peel, the result is fruit with dull bloom and in more extreme cases the fruit looks grey.

Independent retailers were selling bananas at $1.99 to $2.99/kg this week.  The markets all have moderate supplies of cavendish relative to demand with fruit selling at $10-$26 per carton, dependent upon quality and quantity each agent has.

The presentation of Cavendish presented reasonably well and fruit generally exhibiting good bloom - few odd clusters starting to show a presence of dull peel but believed not to be due to growing conditions at this stage. There was a presence of minor dry scar; minor neck damage; as well as bronzing; bruising; small rub marks and sap staining.  Colour was generally good.

Retail ticket pricing in Queensland on bananas was fairly uniform this week in comparison to the week prior with Aldi’s banana ticket price at $2.99/kg; whilst Woolies offered fruit $3.00/kg and Coles also offered fruit at $3.00/kg depending upon location of the stores visited.








RETAIL SNAPSHOT OF BANANAS

Below: Coles Displays

  • Cavendish was priced at $3.00/kg. Kids packs at $3.00ea.

  • Quality across stores was quite good though some clusters found with minor skin marking. Both minor and major bruising; neck injuries, rub and general scarring also found.

  • Lady Fingers were priced at $7.90/kg. Red Tips at $4.90/kg.

 

Below: Aldi Displays

  • Stores had Cavendish @ $2.99/kg- there was a small presence of some green fruit, light bruising/skin marking and neck damage.

  • Lady Fingers were priced at $5.99/kg.

 

Below: Woolworths Displays

  • Woolworths had Cavendish bananas priced at $3.00/kg, Lil Sana kids banded clusters at $2.50. Displays were generally well presented whilst again some minor neck damage and light skin marking - a few odd clusters found spotting.

  • Lady fingers were priced at $7.90/kg, Red tips were priced at $4.90/kg and Organic Clusters $5.50/kg

 

2022-Week -25

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QUICKLINKS

AVOCADO OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

In a nutshell the national production figures for last week were as follows: 

·    Week 24 - 426,044 trays harvested and consigned this week which represents an increase of 6% ( or some 24,000 additional trays) on Week 23, 2022 production – North Qld maintains the lead in production accounting for 51% of this; followed by Central Qld with 44%; 4% from South Qld and the remaining 1% is made up of a contribution from Central NSW and Northern Rivers/Tamborine and Sunshine Coast.

·       It is forecast that a total of 375K trays will be despatched this week nationally. The Hass forecast for the next two weeks to three weeks shows a steady decline starting at 370k down to 320K trays per week. The current four week average dispatch as of this week is 434,182 trays.

All major supermarkets are selling premium Hass  at $1.20 to $1.60ea .  Hass market pricing is comparable to last week, with prices ranging between $13-$17/tray for premium and a range of $9 -$12/tray for class one.  There continues to be very few bulk Hass on the market currently as what is available is being used for prepacking to service the supermarkets predominantly.

The weather in North Qld for our avocado crop has seen daytime temperatures ranging 10.6 to 25.5C with no rain this week at all. Fruit quality from our packing shed has been good, still seeing some light lenticel damage but we continue to grade out anything with heavier marking to ensure fruit is in spec. We are still experiencing a significant proportion of our crop being count 16’s - we sure do know how to grow them big!

Avocado display presentation in Qld stores this week was generally pleasing though some of the hass had a presence of light to moderate lenticel/nodule damage relating to recent rain in the growing region. Fruit age ranged 9 to 16 days. 

In terms of Avocado retail pricing in Qld shelf prices were as follows:  Aldi Qld had Hass and Gmax avos selling this week at a ticket price of $1.39ea;  Coles Qld had NQ Hass ticketed at $1.20ea and Gmax selling at $2.00ea; whilst Woolworths Qld had larger counts Hass selling at $1.40-$1.60/piece depending upon store location and Gmax selling at $2.50ea.  The fruit on shelves varied in condition with maturity ranging just yielding to soft (especially amongst the hass, any piece with a dull hue and sun blemish tended to be quite soft). 



 

RETAIL SNAPSHOTS OF AVOCADOS

Below: Coles Displays inc Bundaberg Sugarland Centre

  • Coles stores had Hass avocados priced at $1.20ea and were also stocking Greenskins Gmax avos selling at $2.00 ea. Fruit was well presented - all 7-14 days old and just yielding to firm with respects to maturity. Growers seen this week were Blue Lagoon (supplied by Delroy’s), Costa Farms; other stickered lines as well as the Greenskins GMAX. A light to moderate level of lenticel damage noted on some lines.

  • 1kg I’m Perfect packs at $4.90 to $6.50ea and 5pks selling for $5.00 to$7.50ea.

 

Below: Aldi Displays inc Bundaberg Sugarland Centre

  • Dorian Consultancy and Ferraro Farming Hass; Purpleskin Hass and Greenskin Gmax fruit in counts 23/25 loose @ $1.39 each.

  • Fruit age ranging 8 to 14 days.

  • 5 piece Hass nets at $5.99 and 1kg market packs also at $5.99ea.

 

Below: Woolworths Displays inc Bundaberg Sugarland Centre, Cooparoo and Fairfield

  • Stores had count 18/20 Howe Farming; Simpson Farms(Tinaroo Falls); and Purpleskin Hass avocados at $1.40 each and Count 14 Greenskin Gmax avocados at $2.50 each. Fruit packed dates of 6th to 9th June so All avocados 12-16 days old - some fruit is yielding to gentle pressure. A low level presence of nodule damage found mainly on the hass.

  • 1kg Prepacks priced at $6.00/net and 5 piece packs priced at $6.50ea.

 

BANANA OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

National transport figures for last week was 377,376 cartons, some 10,000 less than the week prior. In the last week, morning temperatures have been noticeably cooler falling within a range of 12.5- to 20.5C; whilst day time temperatures have been a touch warmer with a top of 27C -within a range of 20 to 27C across the week which for NQld is associated with our winters.  In terms of rainfall, all major North Qld growing regions except Innisfail, had very little rain throughout the week, Innisfail however had a moderate fall of 22.6mm. Cavendish banana bunch age is still in the vicinity of 15-16 weeks, with fruit quality generally good overall in our packshed though we continue to grade out some light scarring. Fruit bloom at this stage is still bright but as the weather continues to cool; not only will we will see bunch age increase over the coming weeks but we may now start seeing a dulling/greying of fruit appearance. This is due to cold temperatures (usually under 10C for a few hours) causing a slowing or temporary cessation of sap flow which results in the sub-epidermal layer browning/greying which reflects outward through the peel, the result is fruit with dull bloom and in more extreme cases the fruit looks grey.

Independent retailers were selling bananas at $1.49 to $1.99/kg this week.  The markets all have moderate supplies of cavendish relative to demand with fruit selling at $2-$22 per carton, dependent upon quality and quantity each agent has.

The presentation of Cavendish presented reasonably well and fruit generally exhibiting good bloom - few odd clusters starting to show a presence of dull peel but believed not to be due to growing conditions at this stage. There was a presence of minor dry scar; minor neck damage; as well as bronzing; bruising; small rub marks and sap staining.  Colour was generally good.

Retail ticket pricing in Queensland on bananas has come back a little this week in comparison to the week prior and amongst the major supermarkets with Aldi’s banana ticket price at $1.79/kg; whilst both Woolies offered fruit at $1.80 to $2.50/kg and Coles offered fruit at $1.80 to $3.00/kg depending upon location of the stores visited.








RETAIL SNAPSHOT OF BANANAS

Below: Coles Bundaberg, Cooparoo and Fairfield Displays

  • Cavendish was priced at $1.80/kg. 750g Kids packs at $2.50ea.

  • Quality across stores was quite good though some clusters found with minor skin marking. Red Tips had what appeared to be sooty mould.

  • Lady Fingers were priced at $7.90/kg. Red Tips at $4.90/kg. Organic Bananas $4.90/kg

 

Below: Aldi Bundaberg, Cooparoo and Fairfield Displays

  • Stores had Cavendish @ $1.79/kg- there was a small presence of some green fruit, very light skin marking and excellent bright bloom of the cavs on display.

  • Lady Fingers were priced at $5.99/kg. Riper fruit was quite heavily marked.

 

Below: Woolworths Bundaberg, Cooparoo and Fairfield Displays

  • Woolworths had Cavendish bananas priced at $1.80- 3.00/kg, Lil Sana kids banded clusters at $2.50. Displays were generally well presented whilst again some minor neck damage and light skin marking - a few odd clusters found spotting.

  • Lady fingers were priced at $7.90/kg, Red tips were priced at $4.90/kg and Organic Clusters $5.50/kg

 

2022-Week -26

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QUICKLINKS

AVOCADO OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

In a nutshell the national production figures for last week were as follows: 

·    Week 25 - 373,096 trays harvested and consigned this week which represents a moderate decrease of 12% ( or almost 53,000 trays) on Week 24, 2022 production – North Qld maintains the lead in production accounting for 46% of this; followed by Central Qld with 45%; 5% from South Qld. The remaining 4% is made up of contributions from WA (yes that’s right, a low volume is already trickling in) Central NSW and Northern Rivers/Tamborine and Sunny coast.

·       It is forecast that a total of 374K trays will be despatched this week nationally. The Hass forecast for the next two weeks to three weeks is for between 340K then dropping to 320K trays per week. The current four week average dispatch as of this week is 411,953 trays.

Major supermarkets were quite varied in their approach to avo pricing this week with premium Hass ticketed at $0.99 to $1.40ea .  Hass market pricing has been awful with some marketers sitting on a lot of old fruit in the system bringing prices down unnecessarily on fresh, good quality lines. Prices ranging between $8-$16/tray for premium and a range of $4 -$9/tray for class one.  There continues to be very few bulk Hass on the market currently as what is available is being used for prepacking to service the supermarkets predominantly.

The weather in North Qld for our avocado crop has seen daytime temperatures ranging 12 to 25C with minimal rain during last week but considerable rain forecast for late this week. Fruit quality from our packing shed has been good and we are still harvesting a major proportion of our crop in the count 14-18 sizing. There is still a presence of light lenticel damage but we continue to grade out anything with heavier marking to ensure fruit is in spec.

Avocado display presentation in Qld stores this week was generally pleasing though some of the hass had a low level presence of light to moderate lenticel/nodule damage relating to recent rain in the growing region. Fruit age ranged 14 to 19 days.  A few of the GMAX avos were found to be soft with bruising.

In terms of Avocado retail pricing in Qld shelf prices were as follows:  Aldi Qld had Hass and Gmax avos selling this week at a ticket price of only $0.99ea;  Coles Qld had NQ Hass ticketed at $1.00ea, and Gmax selling at $2.00ea; whilst Woolworths Qld had larger counts Hass selling at $1.00-$1.40/piece depending upon store location and Gmax selling at $2.50ea.  The fruit on shelves varied in condition with maturity ranging just yielding to soft (especially amongst the hass, any piece with a dull hue and sun blemish tended to be quite soft). 



 

RETAIL SNAPSHOTS OF AVOCADOS

Below: Coles Fairfield, Sunnybank and Loganholme Displays

  • Coles stores had Hass avocados priced at $1.00ea and were also stocking Greenskins Gmax avos selling at $2.20 ea. Fruit was well presented - all 7-14 days old and just yielding to firm with respects to maturity. Growers seen this week were Blue Lagoon (supplied by Delroy), Costa Farms; other stickered lines and Greenskins GMAX.

  • 1kg I’m Perfect packs at $4.90ea and 5pks selling for $6.50ea (some of which were underweight and contained fruit sizing outside of specification - NOT OURS).

 

Below: Aldi Fairfield, Sunnybank and Loganholme Displays

  • Dorian Consultancy; Blue Lagoon (supplied by Delroy); Purpleskin Hass and Greenskin Gmax fruit in counts 23/25 loose @ $0.99 each. Featured in their catalogue this week with front page devoted to Costa Avocado grower, proud supplier.

  • Fruit age ranging 6 to 15 days.

  • 5 piece Hass nets at $5.99 and 1kg market packs also at $5.99ea.

 

Below: Woolworths Moorooka, Sunnybank and Loganholme Displays

  • Stores had Howe Farming (Aus Produce Partners); Simpson Farms(Tinaroo Falls) and Purpleskin Hass avocados at $1.00 to $1.40 each and Greenskin Gmax avocados at $2.50 each. All avocados 8-14 days old - some fruit is yielding to gentle pressure.

  • Both Prepacks priced at $5.00ea.

 

BANANA OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

National transport figures for last week was 379,808 cartons, a touch more than last week by some 2,000 cartons. In the last week, morning temperatures have been noticeably cooler falling within a range of 12.5- to 20.7C; whilst day time temperatures have been similar to last week with a top of 26.3C -within a range of 19.3 to 26.35C across the week which for NQld is mild.  In terms of rainfall, Mareeba and Walkamin had no rain or just under 1mm; whilst Tully and Innisfail had falls across the week totalling 19-23mm, though heavier rain is predicted for late this week. With these weather patterns industry production should be similar this week. Cavendish banana bunch age is still in the vicinity of 15-16 weeks, with fruit quality generally good overall in our packshed though we continue to grade out some light scarring. Fruit bloom at this stage is still bright but as the weather continues to cool; not only will we will see bunch age increase over the coming weeks but we may now start seeing a dulling/greying of fruit appearance. This is due to cold temperatures (usually under 10C for a few hours) causing a slowing or temporary cessation of sap flow which results in the sub-epidermal layer browning/greying which reflects outward through the peel, the result is fruit with dull bloom and in more extreme cases the fruit looks grey.

Independent retailers were selling bananas at $1.99 to $2.49/kg this week.  The markets all have moderate supplies of cavendish relative to demand with fruit selling at $10-$24 per carton, dependent upon quality and quantity each agent has.

The presentation of Cavendish presented reasonably well and fruit generally exhibiting good bloom - few odd clusters starting to show a presence of dull peel but believed not to be due to growing conditions at this stage. There was a presence of minor dry scar; minor neck damage; as well as bronzing; bruising; small rub marks and sap staining.  Colour was generally good.

Retail ticket pricing in Queensland on bananas was fairly uniform this week in comparison to the week prior with Aldi’s banana ticket price at $2.99/kg; whilst Woolies offered fruit $3.00/kg and Coles offered fruit at $2.80/kg depending upon location of the stores visited.








RETAIL SNAPSHOT OF BANANAS

Below: Coles Fairfield, Sunnybank and Loganholme Displays

  • Cavendish was priced at $2.80/kg. Kids packs at $2.80ea.

  • Quality across stores was quite good though some clusters found with minor skin marking. Both minor and major bruising; neck injuries, rub and general scarring also found.

  • Lady Fingers were priced at $7.90/kg. Red Tips at $4.90/kg.

 

Below: Aldi Fairfield, Sunnybank and Loganholme Displays

  • Stores had Cavendish @ $2.99/kg- there was a small presence of some green fruit, light bruising/skin marking and neck damage.

  • Lady Fingers were priced at $5.99/kg.

 

Below: Woolworths Moorooka, Sunnybank and Loganholme Displays

  • Woolworths had Cavendish bananas priced at $2.50- 3.00/kg, Lil Sana kids banded clusters at $2.50. Displays were generally well presented whilst again some minor neck damage and light skin marking - a few odd clusters found spotting.

  • Lady fingers were priced at $7.90/kg, Red tips were priced at $4.90/kg and Organic Clusters $5.50/kg

 

2022-Week -24

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QUICKLINKS

AVOCADO OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

In a nutshell the national production figures for last week were as follows: 

·    Week 23 - 402,307 trays harvested and consigned this week which represents a decrease of 10% ( or some 44,000 or so less cartons) on Week 22, 2022 production – North Qld maintains the lead in production accounting for 56% of this; followed by Central Qld with 37%; 3.8% from South Qld and the remaining 3.2% is made up of a contribution from Central NSW and Northern Rivers/Tamborine and Sunny coast.

·       It is forecast that a total of 397K trays will be despatched this week nationally. The Hass forecast for the next two weeks to three weeks is for between 340-371K trays per week. The current four week average dispatch as of this week is 449,580 trays.

All major supermarkets are selling premium Hass  at $1.20 to $1.60ea .  Hass market pricing is comparable to last week, with prices ranging between $14-$18/tray for premium and a range of $10 -$14/tray for class one.  There continues to be very few bulk Hass on the market currently as what is available is being used for prepacking to service the supermarkets predominantly.

The weather in North Qld for our avocado crop has seen daytime temperatures ranging 10.6 to 25.5C with no rain this week at all. Fruit quality from our packing shed has been good, still seeing some light lenticel damage but we continue to grade out anything with heavier marking to ensure fruit is in spec. We are still experiencing a significant proportion of our crop being count 16’s - we sure do know how to grow them big!

Avocado display presentation in Qld stores this week was generally pleasing though some of the hass had a presence of light to moderate lenticel/nodule damage relating to recent rain in the growing region. Fruit age ranged 9 to 16 days. 

In terms of Avocado retail pricing in Qld shelf prices were as follows:  Aldi Qld had Hass and Gmax avos selling this week at a ticket price of $1.29ea;  Coles Qld had NQ Hass ticketed at $1.20ea and Gmax selling at $2.00ea; whilst Woolworths Qld had larger counts Hass selling at $1.60/piece depending upon store location and Gmax selling at $2.50ea.  The fruit on shelves varied in condition with maturity ranging just yielding to soft (especially amongst the hass, any piece with a dull hue and sun blemish tended to be quite soft). 



 

RETAIL SNAPSHOTS OF AVOCADOS

Below: Coles Indooroopilly, Carindale and Mt Gravatt Central Displays

  • Coles stores had Hass avocados priced at $1.20ea and were also stocking Greenskins Gmax avos selling at $2.00 ea. Fruit was well presented - all 7-14 days old and just yielding to firm with respects to maturity. Growers seen this week were Rock Ridge Farming, Costa Farms; other stickered lines and Greenskins GMAX.

  • 1kg I’m Perfect packs at $6.50ea and 5pks selling for $7.50ea. Organic Avos also available at one store, priced at $4.00ea.

 

Below: Aldi Indooroopilly, Carindale and Mt Gravatt East Displays

  • Dorian Consultancy and Ferraro Farming Hass; Purpleskin Hass and Greenskin Gmax fruit in counts 23/25 loose @ $1.29 each.

  • Fruit age ranging 8 to 14 days.

  • 5 piece Hass nets at $5.99 and 1kg market packs also at $5.99ea.

  • There was even an Aldi truck making a delivery on the day of my visit which was promoting avocados!

 

Below: Woolworths Indooroopilly, Carindale and Mt Gravatt Central Displays

  • Stores had Pogioli Hass; Simpson Farms Hass avocados at $1.60 each and Greenskin Gmax avocados at $2.50 each. All avocados 8-14 days old - some fruit is yielding to gentle pressure.

  • Both Prepacks priced at $6.50ea.

 

BANANA OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

National transport figures for last week was 387,606 cartons, some 13,000 less than the week prior. In the last week, morning temperatures have been noticeably cooler falling within a range of 9.2- to 20.5C; whilst day time temperatures have been similar to last week with a top of 25.5C -within a range of 19.8 to 25.5C across the week which for NQld is mild.  In terms of rainfall, all major North Qld growing regions have had their first dry week in a long time. Cavendish banana bunch age is still in the vicinity of 15-16 weeks, with fruit quality generally good overall in our packshed though we continue to grade out some light scarring. Fruit bloom at this stage is still bright but as the weather continues to cool; not only will we will see bunch age increase over the coming weeks but we may now start seeing a dulling/greying of fruit appearance. This is due to cold temperatures (usually under 10C for a few hours) causing a slowing or temporary cessation of sap flow which results in the sub-epidermal layer browning/greying which reflects outward through the peel, the result is fruit with dull bloom and in more extreme cases the fruit looks grey.

Independent retailers were selling bananas at $1.99 to $2.99/kg this week.  The markets all have moderate supplies of cavendish relative to demand with fruit selling at $0-$26 per carton, dependent upon quality and quantity each agent has.

The presentation of Cavendish presented reasonably well and fruit generally exhibiting good bloom - few odd clusters starting to show a presence of dull peel but believed not to be due to growing conditions at this stage. There was a presence of minor dry scar; minor neck damage; as well as bronzing; bruising; small rub marks and sap staining.  Colour was generally good.

Retail ticket pricing in Queensland on bananas has come back a little this week in comparison to the week prior and amongst the major supermarkets with Aldi’s banana ticket price at $2.49/kg; whilst both Woolies offered fruit at $2.50 to $3.00/kg and Coles offered fruit at $2.00 to $3.00/kg depending upon location of the stores visited.








RETAIL SNAPSHOT OF BANANAS

Below: Coles Indooroopilly, Carindale and Mt Gravatt Central Displays

  • Cavendish was priced at $2.00-3.00/kg. Kids packs at $2.00-3.00ea.

  • Quality across stores was quite good though some clusters found with minor skin marking. Both minor and major bruising; neck injuries, rub and general scarring also found.

  • Lady Fingers were priced at $7.90/kg. Red Tips at $4.90/kg.

 

Below: Aldi Indooroopilly, Carindale and Mt Gravatt East Displays

  • Stores had Cavendish @ $2.49/kg- there was a small presence of some green fruit, light bruising/skin marking and neck damage.

  • Lady Fingers were priced at $5.99/kg.

 

Below: Woolworths Indooroopilly, Carindale and Mt Gravatt Central Displays

  • Woolworths had Cavendish bananas priced at $2.50- 3.00/kg, Lil Sana kids banded clusters at $2.50. Displays were generally well presented whilst again some minor neck damage and light skin marking - a few odd clusters found spotting.

  • Lady fingers were priced at $7.90/kg, Red tips were priced at $4.90/kg and Organic Clusters $5.50/kg

 

2022-Week -23

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QUICKLINKS

AVOCADO OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

In a nutshell the national production figures for last week were as follows: 

·    Week 22 - 446,364 trays harvested and consigned this week which represents a decrease of 3% ( or some 15,000 or so less cartons) on Week 21, 2022 production – North Qld maintains the lead in production accounting for 55% of this; followed by Central Qld with 38%; 4.3% from South Qld and the remaining 2.7% is made up of a contribution from Central NSW and Northern Rivers/Tamborine and Sunny coast.

·       It is forecast that a total of 388K trays will be despatched this week nationally. The Hass forecast for the next two weeks is for between 374-382K trays per week and then supply is forecast to lighten to approximately 336K trays/week by early July. The current four week average dispatch as of this week is 438,273 trays.

All major supermarkets are selling premium Hass  at $1.39 to $1.50ea .  Hass pricing has come back somewhat this week, with prices ranging between $14-$20/tray (a top of $18 is probably a better indication) for premium and a range of $10 -$14/tray for class one.  There continues to be very few bulk Hass on the market currently as what is available is being used for prepacking to service the supermarkets predominantly.

The weather in North Qld for our avocado crop has seen daytime temperatures ranging 13.2 to 28C with a little more rain around in the last week with total falls of 11 to 40mm accumulatively in the main growing regions. Fruit quality from our packing shed has been good, still seeing some lenticel damage but we are grading to ensure this is not too heavy. We are still experiencing a significant proportion of our crop being count 16’s - we sure do know how to grow them big!

Avocado display presentation in Qld stores this week was generally pleasing though some of the new season hass had a presence of moderate lenticel/nodule damage relating to recent rain in the growing region. Fruit age ranged 7 to 15 days. 

In terms of Avocado retail pricing in Qld shelf prices were as follows:  Aldi Qld had Hass and Gmax avos selling this week at a ticket price of $1.39ea;  Coles Qld had NQ Hass ticketed at $1.50ea and Gmax selling at $2.00ea; whilst Woolworths Qld had Hass selling at $1.50-$1.70/piece depending upon store location and Gmax selling at $2.50ea.  The fruit on shelves varied in condition with maturity ranging just yielding to soft (especially amongst the hass, any piece with a dull hue and sun blemish tended to be quite soft).  By Friday evening, Woolworths had television advertising promoting avocados in store at $1.20ea for a weekend special in Queensland - they did this last week for NSW.



 

RETAIL SNAPSHOTS OF AVOCADOS

Below: Coles Garden City, Browns Plains and Carindale Displays

  • Coles stores had Hass avocados priced at $1.50ea and were also stocking Greenskins Gmax avos selling at $2.00 ea. Fruit was well presented - all 7-14 days old and just yielding to firm with respects to maturity. Growers seen this week were Rock Ridge Farming, Costa Farms; other stickered lines and Greenskins GMAX.

  • Both 1kg I’m Perfect packs and 5pks selling for $6.50ea. Organic Avos also available at one store, priced at $4.00ea.

 

Below: Aldi Garden City, Browns Plains and Carindale Displays

  • Dorian Consultancy Hass; Purpleskin Hass and Greenskin Gmax fruit in counts 23/25 loose @ $1.39 each.

  • Fruit age ranging 8 to 14 days.

  • 5 piece Hass nets at $5.99 and 1kg marketpacks also at $5.99ea.

 

Below: Woolworths Garden City, Browns Plains and Carindale Displays

  • Stores had Purpleskin Hass avocados at $1.50 each and Greenskin Gmax avocados at $2.50 each. All avocados 8-14 days old - some fruit is yielding to gentle pressure.

  • Both Prepacks priced at $6.50ea.

 

BANANA OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

National transport figures last week fell within the low 400K cartons. In the last week, morning temperatures have been noticeably cooler falling within a range of 13.2- to 21.8C; whilst day time temperatures have been similar to last week with a top of 28.9C -within a range of 25 to 28.9C across the week which for NQld is mild.  In terms of rainfall, all major North Qld growing regions have been experiencing light rain in most growing regions. Both Tully and Innisfail regions received 41.2mm to 61.6mm accumulatively throughout the week. Mareeba and Walkamin experienced more sporadic falls totalling 11.2 TO 24.4mm for the week. Cavendish banana bunch age is still in the vicinity of 15-16 weeks, with fruit quality generally good overall in our packshed though we continue to grade out some light scarring. Fruit bloom at this stage is still bright but as the weather continues to cool; not only will we will see bunch age increase over the coming weeks and months but if field temperatures fall below 10C we may start to see a dulling of fruit in appearance.

Independent retailers were selling bananas at $1.99 to $3.29/kg this week.  The markets all have moderate supplies of cavendish relative to demand with fruit selling at $0-$26 per carton, dependent upon quality and quantity each agent has. There was one agent in particular in the Brisbane market that was giving fruit away today which is a sign that they are in trouble, but the downside of this is that it degrades the market overall.

The presentation of Cavendish presented reasonably well and fruit is exhibiting good bloom - few odd clusters starting to show a presence of dull peel but believed not to be due to growing conditions at this stage. There was a presence of minor dry scar; minor neck damage; as well as bronzing; bruising; small rub marks and sap staining.  Colour was generally good.

Retail ticket pricing in Queensland on bananas has come back a little this week in comparison to the week prior and amongst the major supermarkets with Aldi’s banana ticket price at $2.99/kg; whilst both Woolies offered fruit at $2.50 to $3.00/kg and Coles offered fruit at $3.00 to $3.50/kg depending upon location of the stores visited.








RETAIL SNAPSHOT OF BANANAS

Below: Coles Garden City, Browns Plains and Carindale Displays

  • Cavendish was priced at $3.00-3.50/kg. Kids packs at $3.00-3.50ea.

  • Quality across stores was quite good though some clusters found with minor skin marking. Both minor and major bruising; neck injuries, rub and general scarring also found.

  • Lady Fingers were priced at $7.90/kg. Red Tips at $4.90/kg.

 

Below: Aldi Garden City, Browns Plains and Carindale Displays

  • Stores had Cavendish @ $2.99/kg- there was a small presence of some green fruit, light bruising/skin marking and neck damage.

  • Lady Fingers were priced at $5.99/kg.

 

Below: Woolworths Garden City, Browns Plains and Carindale Displays

  • Woolworths had Cavendish bananas priced at $2.50- 3.00/kg, Lil Sana kids banded clusters at $2.50. Displays were generally well presented whilst again some minor neck damage and light skin marking - a few odd clusters found spotting.

  • Lady fingers were priced at $7.90/kg, Red tips were priced at $4.90/kg and Organic Clusters $5.50/kg

 

2022-Week -22

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QUICKLINKS

AVOCADO OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

In a nutshell the national production figures for last week were as follows: 

·    Week 21 - 462,012 trays harvested and consigned this week which represents a slight decrease of 5% ( or some 25,000 or so less cartons) on Week 20, 2022 production – North Qld maintains the lead in production accounting for 65% of this; followed by Central Qld with 30%; 2.9% from South Qld and the remaining 2.1% is made up of a contribution from Central NSW and Northern Rivers/Tamborine.

·       It is forecast that a total of 421K trays will be despatched this week nationally. The Hass forecast for the next two weeks is for between 385-400K trays per week and then supply is forecast to lighten to approximately 370K trays/week by mid-late June. The current four week average dispatch as of this week is 427,922 trays.

All major supermarkets are selling premium Hass  at $1.49 to $1.70ea .  Hass pricing has come back this week, with prices ranging between $18-$24/tray for premium and a range of $14 -$18/tray for class one.  There continues to be very few bulk Hass on the market currently as what is available is being used for prepacking to service the supermarkets predominantly.

The weather in North Qld for our avocado crop has seen daytime temperatures ranging 12.8 to 29.6C with lighter, more sporadic rain in the last week which has been welcomed. Unfortunately as our fruit travels and time passes we are seeing the development of some nodule damage - despite the fact that every care has been taken to avoid picking fruit when wet and to treat the fruit with due care to minimise damage - a level of lenticel/nodule damage is present. We have our ripening partners assessing fruit to specification and raising a flag if the level exceeds permissible levels to enable us to either seek a temporary variance to spec or move fruit to the market floor depending upon the severity.

Avocado display presentation in Qld stores this week was generally pleasing though some of the new season hass had a presence of moderate lenticel/nodule damage relating to recent rain in the growing region. Fruit age ranged 8 to 14 days. 

In terms of Avocado retail pricing in Qld shelf prices were as follows:  Aldi Qld had Hass and Gmax avos selling this week at a ticket price of $1.49ea;  Coles Qld had NQ Hass ticketed at $1.50ea and Gmax selling at $2.00ea; whilst Woolworths Qld had Hass selling at $1.70/piece depending upon store location and Gmax selling at $2.50ea.  The fruit on shelves varied in condition with maturity ranging just yielding to soft (especially amongst the hass, any piece with a dull hue and sun blemish tended to be quite soft).


independent at indooroopilly at a wonderful display of class one rock ridge farming fruit - 3 large hass for $6.00



 

NEWS FLASH

〰️

NEWS FLASH 〰️

Coles advertising - avocados featured in courier mail 03-06-22 to promote special

RETAIL SNAPSHOTS OF AVOCADOS

Below: Coles Fairfield, Corinda and Indooroopilly Displays

  • Coles stores had Hass avocados priced at $1.50ea (though old ticketing was still present on the end display -$1.70ea or 2 for $3.00) and were also stocking Greenskins Gmax avos selling at $2.00 ea. Fruit was well presented - all 7-14 days old and just yielding to firm with respects to maturity. Growers seen this week were Rock Ridge Farming, Costa Farms; other stickered lines and Greenskins GMAX.

  • Both 1kg I’m Perfect packs and 5pks selling for $6.50ea.

 

Below: Aldi Fairfield, Acacia Ridge and Indooroopilly Displays

  • Dorian Consultancy Hass; Purpleskin Hass and Greenskin Gmax fruit in counts 23/25 loose @ $1.49 each. Some of the Purpleskin Hass were quite marked (lenticel/nodule damage as well as skin blemishing)

  • Fruit age ranging 8 to 14 days.

  • 5 piece Hass nets at $4.99 and 1kg marketpacks at $5.99ea.

 

Below: Woolworths Moorooka, Acacia Ridge and Indooroopilly Displays

  • Stores had Purpleskin Hass avocados at $1.50-1.70 each and Greenskin Gmax avocados at $2.50 each. All avocados 8-14 days old - some fruit is yielding to gentle pressure.

  • Both Prepacks priced at $7.00ea.

 

BANANA OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

In the last week, morning temperatures have been noticeably cooler falling within a range of 12.8- to 20C; whilst day time temperatures have been similar to last week with a top of 29.6C -within a range of 26.8 to 29.6C across the week which for NQld is mild.  In terms of rainfall, all major North Qld growing regions have been experiencing light rain in most growing regions experienced. Both Tully and Innisfail regions received 1.4mm to 4.2mm accumulatively throughout the week. Walkamin and Mareeba experienced more sporadic light falls totalling 3.8mm for the week. Cavendish banana bunch age is still in the vicinity of 16 weeks, with fruit quality generally good overall in our packshed though we continue to grade out some light scarring. Fruit bloom at this stage is still bright but as this week we officially start winter and from here on in the weather will continue to cool and not only will we will see bunch age increase over the coming weeks and months but if field temperatures fall below 10C we may start to see a dulling of fruit in appearance.

Independent retailers were selling bananas at $1.99 to $3.29/kg this week.  The markets all have moderate supplies of cavendish relative to demand with fruit selling at $15-$29 per carton, dependent upon quality and quantity each agent has.

The presentation of Cavendish presented reasonably well and fruit is exhibiting good bloom. There was still a presence of minor dry scar; minor neck damage; as well as bronzing; bruising; small rub marks and sap staining.  Colour was generally good.

Retail ticket pricing in Queensland on bananas has come back a little this week in comparison to the week prior and amongst the major supermarkets with Aldi’s banana ticket price at $2.99/kg; whilst both Woolies offered fruit at $3.00 to $3.50/kg and Coles offered fruit at $3.00 to $3.50/kg depending upon location of the stores visited.








RETAIL SNAPSHOT OF BANANAS

Below: Coles Fairfield, Corinda and Indooroopilly Displays

  • Cavendish was priced at $3.00-3.50/kg. Kids packs at $3.00-3.50ea.

  • Quality across stores was quite good though some clusters found with minor skin marking and still a noticeable presence of heat affected fruit. Both minor and major bruising; neck injuries, rub and general scarring also found.

  • Lady Fingers were priced at $7.90/kg. Red Tips at $4.90/kg.

 

Below: Aldi Fairfield, Acacia Ridge and Indooroopilly Displays

  • Stores had Cavendish @ $2.99/kg- there was a small presence of some green fruit, light bruising/skin marking and neck damage. A couple of isolated dull clusters observed.

  • Lady Fingers were priced at $5.99/kg.

 

Below: Woolworths Moorooka, Acacia Ridge and Indooroopilly Displays

  • Woolworths had Cavendish bananas priced at $3.00-3.50/kg, Lil Sana kids banded clusters at $2.50. Displays were generally well presented whilst again some minor neck damage and light skin marking - a few odd clusters found spotting.

  • Lady fingers were priced at $7.90/kg, Red tips were priced at $4.50/kg (these were on special)- quite a number of the Red Tips presented poorly with more marking than usual and Organic Clusters $5.50/kg