July 16, 2023

2023 Week - 28

July 16, 2023/ Paul Wilson

QUICKLINKS

AVOCADO OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

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

· Week 27, 2023 - The industry saw a 26.15% decrease on the previous week’s harvest with a total of 365,092 trays harvested and transported ( approx. 130,000 less trays) on Week 26, 2023 production. Hass variety supplying 389,681 trays harvested in addition to 4,800 trays of assorted other varieties also in this week’s reported figures, Central Qld is still in the lead for overall production at 37.54% of the total volume; North Qld contributing 28.56% of the volume followed by a combined effort of South QLD (12.97%), WA (10.82%), Central NSW (6.17%) and the balance coming from the Sunshine Coast/Tamborine an Northern Rivers (4.00%).

In terms of Avocado retail pricing in Qld shelf prices were as follows - Aldi Qld had Hass ticketed at $1.49ea; Coles Qld had Hass ticketed at $1.50ea, and Woolworths had Hass also selling at $1.50/ea. Loose GMAX were back in Woolworths stores visited this week, priced at $2.50ea.

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

RETAIL SNAPSHOTS OF AVOCADOS

Below: Coles Displays from Capalaba, Carindale and Garden City

Coles stores had Hass Avocados at $1.50ea.
1kg I’m Perfect at $6.50ea and 5 piece packs at $6.50/pack. Organic variety at $3.80ea.
Overall good condition, some fruit with bruising and dry marks.

Below: Aldi Displays from Capalaba, Carindale and Garden City

Purpleskin, Avolution; The Strand and Simpson Hass @ $1.49 each.
5 piece packs priced at $6.49ea and 1kg packs as Aldi Super Savers at $4.49ea. GMAX 3pk at $5.99ea.

Below: Woolworths Displays from Capalaba, Carindale and Garden City

Stores stocked Purpleskin, Mayfair and Lovacado Hass in counts 16-20, priced at $1.50ea. GMAX back in stock this week, priced at $2.50ea.
5 piece prepacks at $6.50ea. 1kg prepacks on special priced at $5.20-5.90ea.

BANANA OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

Week 27 saw the national harvest figure increase slightly to just over 372,000 cartons so there was little change in the retail landscape. Over the last week in the far north, early A.M. temperatures have ranged 12.6 - 21 C across all major growing regions - whilst day time temperatures were warmer ranging 22.5 to 30.4 C. Rainfall was lighter than previous weeks with Mareeba and Walkamin receiving just 0.2mm and 0.6mm respectively; whilst Innisfail and Tully received a lighter fall with 8.0 - 10.8mm across the week in each region. The weather bureau is forecasting cooler overnight temps/early morning which will contribute to a dulling of fruit bloom (especially smaller fruit). Production for the next three week period is not expected to increase significantly.

Cavendish presented this week with relatively good bloom, less eat later fruit options on display and there was a presence of rub marks, with minor neck injuries and bruising, observed on some displays of fruit.

Retail ticket pricing in Queensland on bananas remained unchanged on last week and relatively uniform across the three chains as follows: Aldi’s banana ticket price at $3.99/kg; Woolies offered fruit at a competitive ticket price of $4.00/kg; and Coles were offering fruit also competitively at $4.00/kg.

RETAIL SNAPSHOT OF BANANAS

Below: Coles Capalaba, Carindale and Garden City

Cavendish were priced at $4.00/kg and Kids packs were at $4.00ea.
The majority of fruit had good bloom. Some clusters green and with slight bruising.
Lady Fingers were priced at $7.90/kg, Red Tips at $5.50/kg. Organic price varied $6.00ea.

Below: Aldi Capalaba, Carindale and Garden City

Stores had Cavendish @ $3.99/kg- generally decent bloom. A few neck injuries, light brusing and skin marking observed.

Lady Fingers priced at $5.99/kg.

Below: Woolworths Capalaba, Carindale and Garden City

Woolworths had Cavendish bananas priced at $4.00/kg, Lil Sana kids banded clusters at $3.50.
Lady fingers were priced at $8.00/kg, Red tips were priced at $5.50/kg and Organic Clusters at $6.00/kg.

July 07, 2023

2023 Week - 27

July 07, 2023/ Paul Wilson

QUICKLINKS

Banana Overview

Avocado Overview

AVOCADO OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

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

· Week 26, 2023 - The industry saw a 12.83% increase on the previous week’s harvest with a total of 494,368 trays harvested and transported ( approx. 60,000 more trays) on Week 25, 2023 production. Hass variety supplying 469,562 trays harvested in addition to 24,806 trays of assorted other varieties also in this week’s reported figures, Central Qld is still in the lead for overall production at 52.35% of the total volume; North Qld contributing 29.15% of the volume followed by a combined effort of South QLD (7.43%), WA (4.03%), Central NSW(3.28%) and the balance coming from the Sunshine Coast/Tamborine an Northern Rivers (3.75%).

· It is forecast that a total of 394K trays will be despatched this week nationally. Hass harvest figures forecast for the next two to three weeks thereafter are expected to range between 360K and 390K per week, whilst total avocado production across this same period is expected to hit around 380K to 410K per week (including other varieties). The current four week average dispatch figure now sits at 423,982 trays. Whilst the market has come back a little in value as a result of the increased volume over the last two weeks, it is thought to hold steady for the next week or two at least. The majority of growers in far North Queensland have now finished their harvest with the last of the supply from this region expected to be finalised by late July; Central Qld is expected to finish sometime mid-late August. Depending upon how much fruit is to come from Central Qld, there may be a couple of lighter weeks in late August when we may see a percentage increase in value before the Tristates region really gets underway,

In terms of Avocado retail pricing in Qld shelf prices were as follows - Aldi Qld had Hass ticketed at $1.49ea; Coles Qld had Hass ticketed at $1.50ea, and Woolworths had Hass also selling at $1.50/ea. There were no loose GMAX in any stores visited this week, however a couple of the Aldi stores had their GMAX 3 piece nets.

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

RETAIL SNAPSHOTS OF AVOCADOS

Below: Coles Displays from Browns Plains, Indooroopilly and Sunnybank Hills

Coles stores had Hass Avocados at $1.50ea.
1kg I’m Perfect at $6.50ea and 5 piece packs at $6.50/pack. Organic variety at $3.80ea.
Fruit packed 20th to 23rd June, so fruit age ranges 12 to 15 days.
Overall good condition, some fruit with bruising and dry marks.

Below: Aldi Displays from Browns Plains, Indooroopilly and Sunnybank Hills

Purpleskin, Avolution; The Strand and Simpson Hass @ $1.49 each.
Fruit packed 13th to 23rd June so fruit age is 12 to 22 days.
5 piece packs priced at $6.49ea and 1kg packs at $5.99ea. GMAX 3pk at $5.99ea.

Below: Woolworths Displays from Browns Plains, Indooroopilly and Sunnybank Hills

Stores stocked Purpleskin Hass and Simpson Hass in counts 20/23, priced at $1.50ea.
1kg prepacks priced at $6.50ea. Organic variety at $3.30ea.
Fruit packed 23rd to 26th June so fruit age is 9 to 12 days.

BANANA OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

Week 26 saw a national harvest figure decline slightly to just over 362,000 cartons there was little change in the retail landscape. Over the last week in the far north, early A.M. temperatures have ranged 12.5 - 22.1 C across all major growing regions - whilst day time temperatures were warmer ranging 20.5 to 29.8 C. There was a little more rain this week for Mareeba and Walkamin receiving 10.4mm and 18.0mm respectively; whilst Tully and Innisfail received considerably more than previous weeks, with 49.6 - 59.2mm across the week in each region. The weather bureau is forecasting cooler overnight temps/early morning which will contribute to a dulling of fruit bloom (especially smaller fruit). Production for the next four week period is not expected to increase significantly.

Cavendish presented this week with relatively good bloom, less green fruit and although still a presence of rub marks, with minor neck injuries and bruising, less than previous weeks.

Retail ticket pricing in Queensland on bananas was uniform across the three chains as follows: Aldi’s banana ticket price at $3.99/kg; Woolies offered fruit at a competitive ticket price of $4.00/kg; and Coles were offering fruit also competitively at $4.00/kg.

RETAIL SNAPSHOT OF BANANAS

Below: Coles Browns Plains, Indooroopilly and Sunnybank Hills

Cavendish were priced at $4.00/kg and Kids packs were at $4.00ea.
The majority of fruit had good bloom. Some clusters found with neck damage and skin rub marking.
Lady Fingers were priced at $7.90/kg, Red Tips at $5.50/kg. Organic price varied $6.00ea.

Below: Aldi Browns Plains, Indooroopilly and Sunnybank Hills

Stores had Cavendish @ $3.99/kg- generally decent bloom. A few neck injuries, light brusing and skin marking observed.

Lady Fingers priced at $5.99/kg.

Below: Woolworths Browns Plains, Indooroopilly and Sunnybank Hills

Woolworths had Cavendish bananas priced at $4.00/kg, Lil Sana kids banded clusters at $3.50.
Lady fingers were priced at $8.00/kg (one store without stock), Red tips were priced at $5.50/kg and Organic Clusters at $6.00/kg.

June 30, 2023

2023 Week - 26

June 30, 2023/ Paul Wilson

QUICKLINKS

Banana Overview

Avocado Overview

AVOCADO OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

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

· Week 25, 2023 - The industry saw a 3.75% increase on the previous week’s harvest with a total of 438,137 trays harvested and transported ( approx. 16,000 more trays) on Week 24, 2023 production. Hass variety supplying 347,636 trays harvested in addition to 27,684 trays of assorted other varieties also in this week’s reported figures, Central Qld has now overtaken North Qld for the lead in overall production at 55.12% of the total volume; North Qld contributing 38.89% of the volume followed by a combined effort of Central NSW and Tristate contributing the remaining 5.99% (Hass).

· It is forecast that a total of 419K trays will be despatched this week nationally. Hass harvest figures forecast for the next two to three weeks will range between 370K and 400K per week, whilst total avocado production across this same period is expected to hit around 380K to 420K per week (including other varieties). The current four week average dispatch figure now sits at 400,766 trays.

In terms of Avocado retail pricing in Qld shelf prices were as follows - Aldi Qld had Hass ticketed at $1.49ea; Coles Qld had Hass ticketed at $1.80ea, and Woolworths had Hass selling at a competitive $1.50/ea. Woolworths and Coles stores also stocked Greenskin GMAX, priced at $2.30-$2.50ea.

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

RETAIL SNAPSHOTS OF AVOCADOS

Below: Coles Displays from Carindale, Kenmore and Coorparoo

Coles stores had Hass Avocados at $1.80ea. GMAX Avocados at $2.50ea.
1kg I’m Perfect at $6.50ea and 5 piece packs at $6.50/pack. Organic variety at $3.00ea.
Shelf talkers promoting avocado use ideas.

Below: Aldi Displays from Carindale, Kenmore and Coorparoo

Purpleskin, The Strand and Simpson Hass @ $1.49 each.
5 piece packs priced at $6.49ea and 1kg packs at $5.99ea. GMAX 3pk at $5.99ea.

Below: Woolworths Displays from Carindale, Kenmore and Coorparoo

Stores had GMAX avocados at $2.30 each. Gmax found with copper spray residue and rots developing.
Stores also stocked Purpleskin Hass and Simpson Hass in counts 20/23, priced at $1.50ea. Fruit packed 13th to 19th June therefore fruit age ranged 9 to 15 days.
1kg prepacks priced at $6.50ea. Organic variety at $3.30ea.
Shelf Talker - Try this: Smashed Avo and Fetta on toast

INDEPENDENT STORE

Hass Avocados priced at $2.99ea or 2 for $5.00. Count 14 Hass grown by Rockridge selling 2 for $5.00 at Kenmore Village.

BANANA OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

Week 25 has been and gone and we are now halfway through the year with week 26 drawing to a close! Over the last week in the far north, early A.M. temperatures have ranged 8.1 - 20.0 C across all major growing regions - whilst day time temperatures were warmer ranging 24.4 to 27.8 C. Rainfall this week for Mareeba and Walkamin was again low, receiving 0-0.6mm, Tully and Innisfail receiving significantly less than previous weeks, with 2.6 - 14.4mm across the week in each region. Though the forecast for the next week is for overnight/early morning temps to again dip to 10C or below which will contribute to a dulling of fruit bloom and significant rainfall for north and central Queensland which will slow harvest if it eventuates.

Cavendish presented this week with relatively good bloom, some green fruit and a presence of rub marks, with minor neck injuries and bruising.

Retail ticket pricing in Queensland on bananas was as follows: Aldi’s banana ticket price at $3.99/kg; Woolies offered fruit at a competitive ticket price of $4.00/kg; and Coles were offering fruit also competitively at $4.00-4.90/kg depending upon location.

RETAIL SNAPSHOT OF BANANAS

Below: Coles Carindale, Kenmore and Coorparoo

Cavendish were priced at $4.00-4.90/kg and Kids packs were at $4.00-4.90ea.
Some fruit still having slight green colour, but the majority with good bloom. Some clusters found with rust thrip, neck damage and skin rub marking.
Lady Fingers were priced at $7.90/kg, Red Tips at $5.50/kg. Organic price varied $6.50ea.

Below: Aldi Carindale, Kenmore and Coorparoo

Stores had Cavendish @ $3.99/kg- generally decent bloom.

Lady Fingers priced at $5.99/kg.

Below: Woolworths Carindale, Kenmore and Coorparoo

Woolworths had Cavendish bananas priced at $4.00/kg, Lil Sana kids banded clusters at $3.50.
Lady fingers were priced at $8.00/kg, Red tips were priced at $5.50/kg and Organic Clusters at $6.00/kg.

June 23, 2023

2023 Week - 25

June 23, 2023/ Paul Wilson

QUICKLINKS

Banana Overview

Avocado Overview

AVOCADO OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

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

· Week 24, 2023 - The industry saw a 23.81% increase on the previous week’s harvest with a total of 422,317 trays harvested and transported ( approx. 80,000 more trays) on Week 23, 2023 production. Hass variety supplying 385,284 trays harvested in addition to 37,033 trays of assorted other varieties also in this week’s reported figures, North Qld maintains the lead in overall production at 49.31% of the total volume; Central Qld contributing 47.74% of the volume followed by a combined effort of Central NSW and Tristate contributing the remaining 3.00% (Hass). This week the central markets has again seen a lift in pricing by $1.00-$3.00/tray depending upon size, age and quality.

· It is forecast that a total of 375K trays will be despatched this week nationally. Hass harvest figures forecast for the next two to three weeks will range between 303K and 327K per week, whilst total avocado production across this same period is expected to hit around 327K to 352K per week (including other varieties). The current four week average dispatch figure now sits at 386,599 trays.

Ticket pricing of Hass avocados this week was competitive across the three major supermarkets with ticket prices set at $1.19/$1.30 per piece from Wednesday 21st June.

In terms of Avocado retail pricing in Qld shelf prices were as follows - Aldi Qld had Hass ticketed at $1.19ea; Coles Qld had Hass ticketed at $1.30-1.50ea, and Woolworths had Hass selling at a competitive $1.50/ea. Woolworths and Coles stores also stocked Greenskin GMAX, priced at $2.30-2.50ea.

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

RETAIL SNAPSHOTS OF AVOCADOS

Below: Coles Displays from Garden City, Carindale and Forest Lake

Coles stores had Hass Avocados primarily in Ct 25 also odd tray of Ct20’s at $1.30ea. Stock from Rockridge; Dorian as well as Rockley via Murray Brothers. Stock packed 8th to 13th June so fruit age is 8 to 13 days. GMAX Avocados at $2.50ea.
1kg I’m Perfect at $6.50-6.90ea and 5 piece packs at $6.00/pack. Organic variety at $3.80ea.

Below: Aldi Displays from Garden City, Carindale and Forest Lake

Purpleskin and Simpson Hass @ $1.19 each. A little nodule damage present, sun damage and a presence of copper on a few pieces.
5 piece packs priced at $4.49ea and 1kg packs at $4.99ea. GMAX 3pk at $4.49ea.

Below: Woolworths Displays from Garden City, Carindale and Forest Lake

Stores had GMAX avocados at $2.30 each.
Stores also stocked Purpleskin Hass and Simpson Hass in counts 20/23, priced at $1.30-1.50ea. Mixed signage in one store which causes confusion. Stock packed 8th and 9th June so fruit age is 12-13 days. Some copper residue noted, nodule damage and odd piece with sun damage.
5 piece packs at $5.50ea. 1kg prepacks priced at $6.50ea.

INDEPENDENT STORE

Hass Avocados priced at $2.90ea or 2 for $5.00.

BANANA OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

Week 24 saw a total of 392,062 cartons dispatched, an increase on week 24 of approximately 18,000. Over the last week in the far north, early A.M. temperatures have ranged 13.0 - 20.0 C across all major growing regions - whilst day time temperatures were warmer ranging 23.8 to 27.4 C. Rainfall this week for Mareeba and Walkamin was again low, receiving 0-0.6mm, Tully and Innisfail receiving significantly less than previous weeks, with 12.4 - 12.8mm across the week in each region. The forecast for the next week is for overnight/early morning temps to start dipping a little further.

Cavendish presented this week with relatively good bloom, some green fruit and a presence of rub marks and bruising.

RETAIL SNAPSHOT OF BANANAS

Below: Coles Garden City, Carindale and Forest Lake

Cavendish were priced at $3.99/kg and Kids packs were at $4.00ea.
Some fruit still having slight green colour, but the majority with good bloom. Some clusters found with rust thrip, neck damage and skin rub marking.
Lady Fingers were priced at $7.90/kg, Red Tips at $5.50/kg. Organic price varied $6.50ea.

Below: Aldi Garden City, Carindale and Forest Lake

Stores had Cavendish @ $3.99/kg- generally decent bloom.

Lady Fingers priced at $5.99/kg.

Below: Woolworths Garden City, Carindale and Forest Lake

Woolworths had Cavendish bananas priced at $4.00/kg, Lil Sana kids banded clusters at $3.50.
Lady fingers were priced at $8.00/kg, Red tips were priced at $5.50/kg and Organic Clusters at $6.00/kg.

June 22, 2023

2023 Week - 24

June 22, 2023/ Paul Wilson

QUICKLINKS

Banana Overview

Avocado Overview

AVOCADO OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

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

· Week 23, 2023 - The industry saw a 15.04% decrease on the previous week’s harvest with a total of 341,107 trays harvested and transported ( approx. 60,000 less) on Week 22, 2023 production. Hass variety supplying 306,849 trays with an additional 34,258 trays of assorted other varieties also in this week’s reported figures, North Qld maintains the lead in overall production at 56.98% of the total volume; Central Qld contributing 38.88% of the volume followed by a combined effort of Central NSW and Tristate contributing the remaining 4.14% (Hass). The central markets are still in a state of recovery post the deluge of fruit that hit the market in mid-May, and whilst there has been a slight move upward indicating clearance of some of the volume there is still quite a divide between what is being paid for fruit of varying age and quality.

· It is forecast that a total of 338K trays will be despatched this week nationally. Hass harvest figures forecast for the next two to three weeks will range between 273K and 303K per week, whilst total avocado production across this same period is expected to hit around 280K to 340K per week (including other varieties). The current four week average dispatch figure now sits at 382,178 trays.

Ticket pricing of Hass avocados this week was competitive across the three major supermarkets with ticket prices set at $1.19/1.50 per piece from Wednesday 14th June. Avocado display presentation in Qld stores this week was well done.

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 Hass Avocados in Count 20-25 at $1.50ea. GMAX Avocados at $2.50ea.
1kg I’m Perfect at $4.50ea and 5 piece packs at $6.50/pack. Organic variety at $3.80ea.

Below: Aldi Displays from Garden City, Carindale and Indooroopilly

Purpleskin and Simpson Hass in count 23-25 @ $1.19 each. Featured in the Aldi Weekly catalogue.
5 piece packs priced at $4.49ea and 1kg packs at $4.99ea. GMAX 3pk at $4.49ea.

Below: Woolworths Displays from Garden City, Carindale and Indooroopilly

Stores had Count 16/18 GMAX packed 30th and 31st May avocados at $2.50 each - evidence of bruising and skin marking was common.
Stores also stocked Count 18/20/23/25 Purpleskin Hass; Zebra Farms (Rockley); Howe Farming through APP; and Simpsons, priced at $1.30-1.50ea. Fruit found with packed on dates of 25th May through to and including 2nd June; ready to eat Ripe stock of mixed quality.
5 piece packs at $4.50-5.00ea. 1kg prepacks priced at $6.00ea.

INDEPENDENT STORE

Hass Avocados 3 for $8.00, good colour and well stocked.

BANANA OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

Week 23 gone already! Over the last week in the far north, early A.M. temperatures have ranged 13.6 - 20.1 C across all major growing regions - whilst day time temperatures were warmer ranging 24.0 to 27.1 C. Rainfall this week for Mareeba and Walkamin was incredibly low, receiving 0-1.0mm, Tully and Innisfail receiving slightly less than previous weeks, with 40.2-88.8mm across the week in each region. The forecast for the next week is for fine weather though there is a chance of partly cloudy weather with overnight/early morning temps continuing to cool.

Cavendish presented this week with relatively good bloom, some green fruit and a presence of rub marks and bruising.

Retail ticket pricing in Queensland on bananas was as follows: Aldi’s banana ticket price at $3.99/kg; Woolies offered fruit at a ticket price of $4.50/kg; and Coles were offering fruit competitively also at $4.50/kg.

RETAIL SNAPSHOT OF BANANAS

Below: Coles Garden City, Carindale and Indooroopilly

Cavendish were priced at $4.50/kg and Kids packs were at $4.50ea.
Some fruit still having slight green colour, but the majority with good bloom though some clusters were quite dull. A presence of rust thrip damage, scarring and rub marking also noted.
Lady Fingers were priced at $7.90/kg, Red Tips at $4.50-5.50/kg. Organic price varied $6.50ea.

Below: Aldi Garden City, Carindale and Indooroopilly

Stores had Cavendish @ $3.99/kg- generally decent bloom.

Lady Fingers priced at $5.99/kg.

Below: Woolworths Garden City, Carindale and Indooroopilly

Woolworths had Cavendish bananas priced at $4.50/kg, Lil Sana kids banded clusters at $4.50. Bloom was bright, a presence of minor neck injuries noted.
Lady fingers were priced at $7.00/kg, Red tips were priced at $5.50/kg and Organic Clusters at $6.00/kg.

June 21, 2023

2023 Week - 22

June 21, 2023/ Paul Wilson

QUICKLINKS

Banana Overview

Avocado Overview

AVOCADO OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

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

· Week 21, 2023 - The industry saw a decrease of 5.73% on the previous week’s harvest with a total of 381,468 trays harvested and transported ( approx. 23,167 less trays) on Week 20, 2023 production. Hass variety supplying 352,040 trays harvested in addition to 30,000 trays of assorted other varieties also in this week’s reported figures, North Qld maintains the lead in overall production at 54.70% of the total volume; Central Qld contributing 40.36% of the volume followed by a combined effort of Central NSW and Tristate contributing the remaining 4.94% (Hass). The markets are still in a state of recovery post the recent heavy weeks of production - there appears to be two markets in one currently, a cheaper market for older fruit with pricing falling to low to mid teens and a little stronger for fresher fruit.

· It is forecast that a total of 390K trays will be despatched this week nationally. Hass harvest figures forecast for the next two to three weeks will range between 320K and 350K per week, whilst total avocado production across this same period is expected to hit around 350K to 390K per week (including other varieties). The current four week average dispatch figure now sits at 453,050 trays.

Ticket pricing of Hass avocados this week was competitive across the three major supermarkets with ticket prices set at $0.99 to $1.20 per piece from Wednesday 31st May. Avocado display presentation in Qld stores this week varied with the number of displays and the quality of fruit on display, with a higher presence of bruising noted.

In terms of Avocado retail pricing in Qld shelf prices were as follows - Aldi Qld had Hass ticketed at $0.99ea; Coles Qld had Hass ticketed at $1.20ea, and Woolworths also had Hass selling at a competitive $1.20/ea. Woolworths and Coles stores also stocked Greenskin GMAX, priced at $2.20ea.

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

RETAIL SNAPSHOTS OF AVOCADOS

Below: Coles Displays from Garden City, Loganholme and Carindale

Coles stores had Hass Avocados in Count 20-25 at $1.20ea - growers included Rockridge; Simpsons; and Dorrian Hass. Count 18 GMAX Avocados at $2.20ea. Fruit was well presented with age up to 16 days old. Stores had table top display units as well as display ends - ramping up with the special.
1kg I’m Perfect at $6.50ea and 5 piece packs at $5.00/pack.

Below: Aldi Displays from Garden City, Loganholme and Carindale

Purpleskin Hass in count 23-25 @ $0.99 each packed 24th May found at all three locations. A little nodule damage noted and odd piece with heavy skin marking and sun damage.
5 piece Hass packs priced at $4.49ea and 1kg packs also at $4.49ea. GMAX 3 piece nets also available and selling for $4.49 ea.
Loose Hass featured in this week’s catalogue.

Below: Woolworths Displays from Garden City, Loganholme and Carindale

Stores had GMAX avocados at $2.20 each with Pink Header card promoting the New GMAX - some pieces found with rots.
Stores also stocked Count 20-23 Purpleskin Hass; Howe Farming Hass; Golden Triangle Poggioli Hass - priced at $1.20ea.
1kg packs at $4.80ea. 5 piece packs at $5.00ea.

BANANA OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

Week 21 had 363,040 cartons sent this week, a slight decrease on last week’s dispatch of 387,434 cartons.

Over the last week in the far north, early A.M. temperatures have ranged 11.0 - 20.0 C across all major growing regions - whilst day time temperatures were warmer ranging 22.9 to 27.3 C. Rainfall this week for Mareeba and Walkamin was still low, receiving 1.8-5.8mm, Tully and Innisfail receiving considerably more than previous weeks, with 35.4-50.4mm across the week in each region. The forecast for the next week is for the partly cloudy weather with showers likely across all of these regions with overnight/early morning temps continuing to cool.

Cavendish presented this week with passable bloom, some green fruit and a presence of rub marks, bruising and neck injuries.

Retail ticket pricing in Queensland on bananas was as follows: Aldi’s banana ticket price at $3.99/kg; Woolies offered fruit at a ticket price of $4.00/kg; and Coles were offering fruit competitively also at $4.00/kg.

RETAIL SNAPSHOT OF BANANAS

Below: Coles Garden City, Loganholme and Carindale

Cavendish were priced at $3.49-4.00/kg and Kids packs were at $4.00ea.
Some fruit still having slight marking.
Lady Fingers were priced at $6.90/kg, Red Tips at $5.50/kg. Organic price varied $5.50ea.

Below: Aldi Garden City, Loganholme and Carindale

Stores had Cavendish @ $3.99/kg- generally decent bloom.

Lady Fingers priced at $5.99/kg.

Below: Woolworths Garden City, Loganholme and Carindale

Woolworths had Cavendish bananas priced at $4.00/kg depending upon store location, Lil Sana kids banded clusters at $3.50.
Lady fingers were priced at $7.00/kg, Red tips were priced at $5.00/kg and Organic Clusters at $6.50/kg.

June 21, 2023

2023 Week - 23

June 21, 2023/ Paul Wilson

QUICKLINKS

Banana Overview

Avocado Overview

AVOCADO OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

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

· Week 22, 2023 - The industry saw a 5.25% increase on the previous week’s harvest with a total of 401,503 trays harvested and transported ( approx. 20,000 more trays) on Week 21, 2023 production. Hass variety supplying 357,179 trays with no shepards being harvested in addition to 33,280 trays of assorted other varieties also in this week’s reported figures, North Qld maintains the lead in overall production at 64,72% of the total volume; Central Qld contributing 31.90% of the volume followed by a combined effort of Central NSW and Trisate contributing the remaining 3.38% (Hass).

· It is forecast that a total of 390K trays will be despatched this week nationally. Hass harvest figures forecast for the next two to three weeks will range between 280K and 370K per week, whilst total avocado production across this same period is expected to hit around 320K to 400K per week (including other varieties). The current four week average dispatch figure now sits at 437,998 trays.

Ticket pricing of Hass avocados this week was competitive but uniform across the three major supermarkets with ticket prices set at $1.19/1.20 per piece from Wednesday 7th June. Avocado display presentation in Qld stores this week was well done, with only minimal fruit in every store with slight bruising.

In terms of Avocado retail pricing in Qld shelf prices were as follows - Aldi Qld had Hass ticketed at $1.19ea; Coles Qld had Hass ticketed at $1.20ea, and Woolworths had Hass selling at a competitive $1.20/ea. Woolworths and Coles stores also stocked Greenskin GMAX, priced at $2.20ea.

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

RETAIL SNAPSHOTS OF AVOCADOS

Below: Coles Displays from Garden City, Upper Mt Gravatt and Rundle Mall Adelaide

Coles stores had Hass Avocados in Count 25 at $1.20-1.50ea. GMAX Avocados at $2.20ea.
1kg I’m Perfect at $6.50ea and 5 piece packs at $5.00/pack.

Below: Aldi Displays from Garden City and Upper Mt Gravatt

Greenskin Shepards, Purpleskin and Simpson Hass in count 23-25 @ $1.19 each.
5 piece packs priced at $4.49ea and 1kg packs at $4.99ea.

Below: Woolworths Displays from Garden City, Upper Mt Gravatt and Rundle Mall Adelaide

Stores had Count 18 GMAX avocados at $2.20 each.
Stores also stocked Count 25 Purpleskin Hass, priced at $1.20ea.
5 piece packs at $5.00ea.

BANANA OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

Week 22 had 350,306 cartons sent this week, a slight decrease on last week’s dispatch of 363,040 cartons.

Over the last week in the far north, early A.M. temperatures have ranged 13.9 - 22.1 C across all major growing regions - whilst day time temperatures were warmer ranging 24.1 to 27.9 C. Rainfall this week for Mareeba and Walkamin was still low, receiving 0.2-6.2mm, Tully and Innisfail receiving considerably more than previous weeks, with 82.2-125.2mm across the week in each region. The forecast for the next week is for the partly cloudy weather with the chance of showers across all of these regions with overnight/early morning temps continuing to cool.

Cavendish presented this week with better bloom, some green fruit and a presence of rub marks and minimal neck injuries.

Retail ticket pricing in Queensland on bananas was as follows: Aldi’s banana ticket price at $3.99/kg; Woolies offered fruit at a ticket price of $4.00-4.90/kg; and Coles were offering fruit also at $4.00-4.50/kg.

RETAIL SNAPSHOT OF BANANAS

Below: Coles Garden City, Upper Mt Gravatt and Rundle Mall Adelaide

Cavendish were priced at $3.99-4.50/kg and Kids packs were at $4.00ea.
Some fruit still having slight green colour, but the majority with good bloom.
Lady Fingers were priced at $6.90/kg, Red Tips at $5.50/kg. Organic price varied $6.50ea.

Below: Aldi Garden City and Upper Mt Gravatt

Stores had Cavendish @ $3.99/kg- generally decent bloom.

Lady Fingers priced at $5.99/kg.

Below: Woolworths Garden City, Upper Mt Gravatt and Rundle Mall Adelaide

Woolworths had Cavendish bananas priced at $4.00-4.90/kg depending upon store location, Lil Sana kids banded clusters at $3.50.
Lady fingers were priced at $7.00-8.00/kg, Red tips were priced at $5.50/kg and Organic Clusters at $6.00/kg.

April 28, 2023

2023 Week - 17

April 28, 2023/ Paul Wilson

QUICKLINKS

Banana Overview

Avocado Overview

AVOCADO OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

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

· Week 16, 2023 - The industry saw a tremendous increase of 62% on the previous week’s harvest with a total of 533,166 trays harvested and transported ( approx. 204,046 more trays) on Week 15, 2023 production - There were some 226,146 trays/other pack formats of Shepards harvested this week which means that the new season Hass avos have now taken the lead in terms of varietal production with a total 301,122 trays/other packing formats harvested last week. North Qld maintains the lead in overall production at 71.94% of the total volume; Central Qld contributing 26.59% of the volume followed by a combined effort of Central NSW and Tri-sate contributing the remaining 1.47% (Hass).

· It is forecast that a total of 428K trays will be despatched this week nationally. Whilst there will still be a few Shepard avocados around for another two weeks our shift now changes to the Hass variety. Hass harvest figures forecast for the next two to three weeks will fall between 400 and 450K per week, whilst total avocado production across this same period is expected to hit around 470K to 500K per week. The current four week average dispatch figure has increased and now sits at 428,633 trays.

Ticket pricing of avocados this week was quite stable with pricing ranging $1.99 to $2.50 per piece at most retail outlets. Major supermarkets this week, also had competitive offers for premium Shepard in Qld - ticketed at $1.90 to $2.00ea. Market pricing for Shepard and Hass bulks, premium; class one and second bulks, have been ranging $10.00-$30.00/ctn - these bulks are being used to make prepacks and to serve the food service industry primarily. Most second grade fruit is being used in processing. All lines have come back in price as can be expected with the increase in volume hitting all markets with premium trays selling 424-$30 main sales, top of $32 for glamour; class one fruit is generally selling in the low $20’s with no real change expected for next week.

Avocado display presentation in Qld stores this week was generally well done, some fruit in every store with slight bruising or marking. Fruit age ranged 12 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 NQ Shepard ticketed at $1.99ea in Aldi Super Savers; Coles Qld had Shepards ticketed at $2.00ea, and Woolworths had NQ Shepards selling at a competitive $1.90/ea. Woolworths stores also stocked Purpleskin Hass, priced at $2.50ea.

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

RETAIL SNAPSHOTS OF AVOCADOS

Below: Coles Displays from Loganholme, Fairfield and Carindale

Coles stores had Shepard in Count 20-23 at $2.00ea. Fruit was well presented with age 8 to 16 days old.
1kg I’m Perfects at $6.90/pack. Organic Avocados at $4.20ea.

Below: Aldi Displays from Loganholme, Fairfield and Carindale

Greenskin Shepards in count 23s @ $1.99 each, featured in the Super Savers section.
5 piece packs priced at $6.49ea and 1kg packs at $5.99ea.

Below: Woolworths Displays from Loganholme, Buranda and Carindale

Stores had Count 20/25 Greenskin Shepard avocados at $1.90 each. Age is 8-14 days old.
Stores also stocked Purpleskin Hass, priced at $2.50ea.
1kg packs at $6.50ea. 5 piece packs at $8.20ea.
Also back on display was AvoFresh’s Guacamole for $5.50ea.

BANANA OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

National transport figures for last week (Wk 16/2023) of 451,464 cartons saw a 13.25% increase from the previous week with approximately an additional 60,000 cartons on week 15. Over the last week in the far north, early A.M. temperatures have ranged 18.0 - 23.2 C across all major growing regions - whilst day time temperatures were warmer ranging 25.5 to 29.3C, we are starting to see a cooling of temperatures with the season change. Rainfall this week has stayed consistent with Mareeba and Walkamin received between 1-4mm each, however quite a different story in Tully and Innisfail receiving a significant dump of 280 to 360mm across the week. The forecast for the next week is for the partly cloudy weather with the chance of showers across all of these regions which will tend to reduce growth rates.

Independent retailers were selling bananas at $2.99 to $3.00/kg this week. The markets have moderate supplies of cavendish relative to demand.

The presentation of Cavendish presented this week continues to have good bloom with a light presence of small rub marks and some minor neck injuries.

RETAIL SNAPSHOT OF BANANAS

Below: Coles Loganholme, Fairfield and Carindale

Cavendish were priced at $2.50/kg and Kids packs were at $2.50ea.
Bloom was better this week, some fruit still having slight marking.
Lady Fingers were priced at $6.90/kg, Red Tips at $5.50/kg. Organic also at $5.50/kg.

Below: Aldi Loganholme, Fairfield and Carindale

Stores had Cavendish @ $2.99/kg, there was a presence of light skin marking and neck injury- but good bloom generally.
Lady Fingers were priced at $5.99/kg.

Below: Woolworths Loganholme, Buranda and Carindale

Woolworths had Cavendish bananas priced at $2.50-3.00/kg, Lil Sana kids banded clusters at $2.50.
Lady fingers were priced at $7.00/kg, Red tips were priced at $4.50/kg and Organic Clusters at $4.50/kg - these were on special this week.
Cavendish across all stores had good bloom this week.

April 26, 2023

2023 Week - 16

April 26, 2023/ Paul Wilson

QUICKLINKS

Banana Overview

Avocado Overview

AVOCADO OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

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

· Week 15, 2023 - The industry saw a decrease of 8.43% on the previous week’s harvest with a total of 329,120 trays harvested and transported ( approx. 30,318 less trays) on Week 14, 2023 production. Of the total, approx 222,324 trays🥑 or other packing formats of this volume were Shepard avos and so it is of no surprise that we saw North Qld maintain lead production at 73.86% of the total volume; Central Qld contributing 24.15% of the volume followed by a combined effort of Central NSW and Trisate contributing the remaining 2% (Hass). Hass numbers from North Qld and Central Qld are creeping up with a total of 98K in various packing formats despatched last week.

· It is forecast that a total of 369K trays will be despatched this week nationally. The Shepard forecast for the next two to three weeks is for supplies to be in a status of decline to 94K, then 70K and 40K trays per week expected, whilst total Hass avocado production across this same period is expected to grow week on week with190K, 277K to mid 300K in early May. The current four week average dispatch figure has increased and now sits at 414,987 trays.

Ticket pricing of avocados this week was clean at $1.79 to $2.50 per piece at most retail outlets. Major supermarkets this week, had somewhat competitive offers for premium Shepard in Qld - ticketed at $1.79 to $2.00ea. Market pricing in the two eastern seaboard locations was steady with prices ranging $28-$36/tray (for exceptional quality up to $38/tray in southern states) for premium fruit and $18-$28/tray for class one. Market pricing for Shepard bulks, premium; class one and second bulks, have been ranging $10.00-$35.00/ctn. Some Independent retailers, continue to offer large sized class one fruit 2/$5 and large premium for $3.99ea or 2/$7.00.

Avocado display presentation in Qld stores this week was generally pleasing, some fruit in every store with slight bruising or marking. Fruit age ranged 8 to 14 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 NQ Shepard ticketed at $1.79ea; Coles Qld had Shepards ticketed at $2.00ea, and Woolworths also had NQ Shepards selling at $2.00/ea in stores visited. Also noted in Coles stores, Autumn Hass which was ticketed at $1.80ea and were displayed alongside NQ Shepards. Woolworths stores also stocked Purpleskin Hass, priced at $2.50ea.

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

RETAIL SNAPSHOTS OF AVOCADOS

Below: Coles Displays from Indooroopilly and Carindale

Coles stores had Shepard in Count 20-25 at $2.00ea and Autumn avocados priced at $1.80ea. Fruit was well presented.
5 piece prepacks priced at $5.00ea and Ikg I’m Perfects at $6.90/pack.

Below: Aldi Displays from Indooroopilly and Carindale

Greenskin Shepards in count 25s @ $1.79 each.
5 piece packs priced at $6.99ea and 1kg packs at $6.49ea.

Below: Woolworths Displays from Indooroopilly and Carindale

Stores had Count 20 Greenskin Shepard avocados at $2.00 each. Age is 8-14 days old.
Stores also stocked Purpleskin Hass, priced at $2.50ea.
1kg packs at $6.50ea.

BUNBURY WA SUPER FARMERS MARKET AVOCADOS

Shepard avocados priced at $3.99ea or 2 for $7.00.
South West Avocado Box priced at $9.99/kg - class one, even a couple of pieces of class two found in these.
Some fruit with skin splitting or marking, otherwise presented well.

BANANA OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

National transport figures for last week (Wk 15/2023) of 391,635 cartons saw a slight increase on the previous week with approximately 20,000 more cartons than in week 14. Over the last week in the far north, early A.M. temperatures have ranged 18.7 - 23.6 C across all major growing regions - whilst day time temperatures were warmer ranging 25.6 to 35.3C. In terms of rainfall, all major growing regions have received a similar amount to previous weeks. Both Mareeba and Walkamin received between 4-5mm each, whilst Tully and Innisfail have received 43 to 144mm across the week. The forecast for the next week is for the sunny weather with the chance of isolated showers across these regions.

Independent retailers were selling bananas at $2.99 to $3.00/kg this week. The markets have moderate supplies of cavendish relative to demand.

The presentation of Cavendish presented this week continues to have decent bloom with a light presence of minor dry scar; small rub marks; and some minor neck injuries.

RETAIL SNAPSHOT OF BANANAS

Below: Coles Indooroopilly and Carindale

Cavendish were priced at $3.00/kg and Kids packs were at $3.00ea.
Bloom was slightly dull this week, with most fruit having slight marking.
Lady Fingers were priced at $5.90/kg, Red Tips at $5.50/kg. Organic also at $5.50/kg.

Below: Aldi Indooroopilly and Carindale

Stores had Cavendish @ $2.99/kg, there was a presence of light skin marking, rub marking, neck injury- but good bloom generally.
Lady Fingers were priced at $5.79/kg.

Below: Woolworths Indooroopilly and Carindale

Woolworths had Cavendish bananas priced at $3.00/kg, Lil Sana kids banded clusters at $2.50.
Lady fingers were priced at $6.00/kg, Red tips were priced at $4.50/kg and Organic Clusters at $5.50/kg.
Cavendish across all stores had good bloom this week.

BUNBURY WA SUPER FARMERS MARKET BANANAS

Carnarvon Bananas priced at $2.99ea. Extra Large Queensland Bananas priced at $4.49/kg.
Prepacked Bananas at $2.99/kg.
All fruit slightly green, well stocked and presentation was excellent.

April 26, 2023

2023 Week - 14

April 26, 2023/ Paul Wilson

QUICKLINKS

Banana Overview

Avocado Overview

AVOCADO OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

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

· Week 13, 2023 - The industry experienced an increase of 4.19% on the previous week’s harvest with a total of 498,620 trays harvested and transported ( approx. 20,000 more trays) on Week 12, 2023 production. Of the total, approx 319,466 trays of this volume were Shepard avos and so it is of no surprise that we saw North Qld maintain lead production at 73.47% of the total volume; Central Qld contributing 22.95% of the volume followed by a combined effort of WA/Central NSW and Trisate contributing the remaining 3.47% (Hass).

· It is forecast that a total of a much lighter crop of 394K trays is expected to be despatched this week nationally. The Shepard forecast for the next two to three weeks is for supplies will continue to lighten with volumes of approximately 290K down to 216K trays per week expected, whilst total avocado production across this same period is expected to hit around 345K per week until more Hass is harvested which is when the next increase is expected by late April to the early 400K trays per week again. The current four week average dispatch figure has increased and now sits at 431,021 trays. The weather in far north Queensland from whence the bulk of primary production is currently being grown has been very warm during the days with a continuance of light showers. Fruit quality on farm is very good and eating at this time of the season is exceptional.

There were a little over 10,000 trays of Hass harvested again in the last week and this figure is set to quadruple by Easter and steadily increase the the Shepard season draws to a close by late April.

Ticket pricing of avocados this week was clean at $1.79 to $1.80 per piece at most retail outlets. Major supermarkets this week, had super keen offers for their customers for premium Shepard in Qld - ticketed at $1.79 to $1.80ea. Market pricing in the eastern seaboard locations was steady with prices ranging $24-$36/tray (for exceptional quality up to $36/tray) for premium fruit and $18-$28/tray for class one. Market pricing for Shepard bulks, premium; class one and second bulks, have been ranging $10.00-$28.00/ctn. Some Independent retailers, continue to offer large sized premium fruit $2.50ea and 3/$5.00.

Avocado display presentation in Qld stores this week was generally pleasing. Fruit age ranged 8 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 NQ Shepard ticketed at $1.79ea; Coles Qld had new season Shepards ticketed at $1.80ea, and Woolworths also had NQ Shepards selling at $1.80/ea in stores visited. Also noted in Coles stores, Autumn Hass which was ticketed at $1.80ea with these displayed alongside NQ Shepards. One Woolworths store also stocked Purpleskin Hass, priced at $2.50ea.

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

RETAIL SNAPSHOTS OF AVOCADOS

Below: Coles Displays from Sunnybank Hills, Coorparoo and Sunnybank

Coles stores had Shepard and Autumn avocados in Count 23-25 priced at $1.80ea on special. Fruit was well presented with age 8 to 16 days old. Growers included Howe Farming; Rock Ridge; Lovacado.
5 piece prepacks priced at $5.00ea and Ikg I’m Perfects at $6.90/pack.

Below: Aldi Displays from Sunnybank Hills and Coorparoo

Greenskin Shepards and The Strand Shepards in count 25s @ $1.79 each as Aldi Super Savers.
5 piece packs priced at $6.99ea and 1kg packs at $6.49ea.

Below: Woolworths Displays from Sunnybank Hills, Coorparoo and Sunnybank

Stores had Count 25 Greenskin Shepard avocados at $1.80 each on special. Age is 8-14 days old.
Stores also stocked Purpleskin Hass, priced at $2.50ea.
5 piece packs at $8.20ea, considerably higher than other chains.

BANANA OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

Over the last week in the far north, early A.M. temperatures have ranged 17.5 - 22.8 C across all major growing regions - whilst day time temperatures were warmer ranging 29.6 to 33.9C. In terms of rainfall, all major growing regions have received a similar amount to previous weeks. Both Mareeba and Walkamin received between 51-58mm each, whilst Tully and Innisfail have received 0 to 0.2mm across the week. The forecast for the next week is for the sunny weather with the chance of isolated showers across these regions.

Independent retailers were selling bananas at $2.99 to $3.50/kg this week. The markets have moderate supplies of cavendish relative to demand.

The presentation of Cavendish presented this week continues to have decent bloom with a light presence of minor dry scar; small rub marks; and neck injuries.

Retail ticket pricing in Queensland on bananas exhibited minimal change from last week with Aldi’s banana ticket price at what seems like a standard $2.99/kg; Woolies offered fruit at a ticket price of $3.00/kg at all three locations visited; whilst Coles were offering fruit at $3.00/kg at one location and $3.50/kg at the others. 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 Sunnybank Hills, Coorparoo and Sunnybank

Cavendish were priced at $3.00-3.50/kg and Kids packs were at $3.00ea.
Bloom was slightly dull this week, with most fruit having slight marking.
Lady Fingers were priced at $4.90/kg on special. Red Tips at $5.50/kg. Organic also at $5.50/kg.

Below: Aldi Sunnybank Hills and Coorparoo

Stores had Cavendish @ $2.99/kg, there was a presence of light skin marking, rub marking, neck injury- but good bloom generally.
Lady Fingers were priced at $5.79/kg.

Below: Woolworths Sunnybank Hills, Coorparoo and Sunnybank

Woolworths had Cavendish bananas priced at $3.00/kg, Lil Sana kids banded clusters at $3.00.
Lady fingers were priced at $5.00/kg, Red tips were priced at $5.00/kg and Organic Clusters at $5.50/kg.
Cavendish across all stores had good bloom this week.

April 26, 2023

2023 Week - 15

April 26, 2023/ Paul Wilson

QUICKLINKS

Banana Overview

Avocado Overview

AVOCADO OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

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

· Week 14, 2023 - The industry saw a decrease of 27.91% on the previous week’s harvest with a total of 359,438 trays harvested and transported ( approx. 139,182 less trays) on Week 13, 2023 production. Of the total, approx 229,473 trays of this volume were Shepard avos and the balance being a mix of new season Hass from North Qld and Central Qld as well as hass from other regions. We saw North Qld maintain lead production at 74.84% of the total volume; Central Qld contributing 21.14% of the volume followed by a combined effort of Central NSW and Trisate contributing the remaining 4.02% (Hass).

· It is forecast that a total of 329K trays will be despatched this week nationally. The Shepard forecast continues to decline as we see Hass numbers steadily increasing. Shepard forecasts for the next two to three weeks is for supplies to fall from 229K down to around 60K trays whilst Hass will strengthen with volumes of approximately 43K trays this week with harvests increasing to approx 250K trays for the last week of April. The current four week average dispatch figure has increased and now sits at 443,199 trays.

Ticket pricing of avocados this week was clean at $1.79 to $1.80 per piece at most retail outlets. The promotional activity of all the Major supermarkets of last week have continued this week with Shepards in Qld - continuing their ticket price at $1.79 to $1.80ea. Market pricing in the two eastern seaboard locations was steady with prices ranging $24-$36/tray (for exceptional quality up to $38/tray in the southern states) for premium fruit and $18-$28/tray for class one. Market pricing for Shepard bulks, premium; class one and second bulks, have been ranging $10.00-$30.00/ctn. Some Independent retailers, continue to offer large sized premium fruit $2.50ea and 3/$5.00.

Avocado display presentation in Qld stores this week was generally pleasing. Fruit age ranged 10 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 NQ Shepard ticketed at $1.79ea; Coles Qld had Shepards ticketed at $1.80ea, and Woolworths also had NQ Shepards selling at $1.80/ea in stores visited. Also noted in Coles stores, Autumn Hass which was ticketed at $1.80ea with these displayed alongside NQ Shepards. Woolworths stores also stocked Purpleskin Hass, priced at $2.50ea.

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

RETAIL SNAPSHOTS OF AVOCADOS

Below: Coles Displays from Coorparoo, Mt Ommaney and Carindale

Coles stores had Shepard and Autumn avocados in Count 23-25 priced at $1.80ea on special. Packed dates of 28-30th March and 1st April. Fruit was well presented with age 11 to 15 days old. Growers included Howe Farming (odd rot found); and Rock Ridge ( little nodule damaged observed).
5 piece prepacks priced at $5.00ea and Ikg I’m Perfects at $6.90/pack.

Below: Aldi Displays from Coorparoo, Mt Ommaney and Carindale

Predominantly Greenskin Shepards in count 25s @ $1.79 each as Aldi Super Savers. Packed date 30th March so fruit age 13 days.
5 piece packs priced at $6.99ea and 1kg packs at $6.49ea.

Below: Woolworths Displays from Coorparoo, Mt Ommaney and Carindale

Whilst presentation was very good in these Stores had Count 23/25 Greenskin Shepard avocados at $1.80 each on special. Oldest Packed dates 27th and 28th March so age ranged 8-16 days old. Did find a number of pieces with rots, skin marking or evidence of breakdown in these displays as you will see in the shots captured.
Stores also stocked Purpleskin Hass (some size 14-18s), priced at $2.50ea.
5 piece packs at $8.20ea. 1kg packs at $6.50ea.

BANANA OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

Over the last week in the far north, early A.M. temperatures have ranged 18.4 - 25.1 C across all major growing regions - whilst day time temperatures were warmer ranging 30.0 to 34.6C. In terms of rainfall, all major growing regions have received a similar amount to previous weeks. Both Mareeba and Walkamin received between 17-57mm each, whilst Tully and Innisfail have received 0 to 0.2mm across the week. The forecast for the next week is for the sunny weather with the chance of isolated showers across these regions.

Independent retailers were selling bananas at $2.99 to $3.00/kg this week. The markets have moderate supplies of cavendish relative to demand.

The presentation of Cavendish presented this week continues to have decent bloom with a light presence of minor dry scar; small rub marks; and some minor neck injuries.

Retail ticket pricing in Queensland on bananas exhibited minimal change from last week with Aldi’s banana ticket price at what seems like a standard $2.99/kg; Woolies offered fruit at a ticket price of $3.00/kg at all three locations visited; and Coles were offering fruit at $3.00-$3.50/kg. Fruit was presented well with only minimal rub and skin scarring as noted above.

RETAIL SNAPSHOT OF BANANAS

Below: Coles Coorparoo, Mt Ommaney and Carindale

Cavendish were priced at $3.00-3.50/kg and Kids packs were at $3.00ea.
Bloom was slightly dull this week, with most fruit having slight marking.
Lady Fingers were priced at $4.90/kg on special. Red Tips at $5.50/kg. Organic also at $5.50/kg.

Below: Aldi Coorparoo, Mt Ommaney and Carindale

Stores had Cavendish @ $2.99/kg, there was a presence of light skin marking, rub marking, neck injury- but good bloom generally.
Lady Fingers were priced at $4.99/kg.

Below: Woolworths Coorparoo, Mt Ommaney and Carindale

Woolworths had Cavendish bananas priced at $3.00/kg, Lil Sana kids banded clusters at $3.00.
Lady fingers were priced at $5.00/kg, Red tips were priced at $5.00/kg and Organic Clusters at $5.50/kg.
Cavendish across all stores had good bloom this week.

April 26, 2023

2023 Week - 13

April 26, 2023/ Paul Wilson

QUICKLINKS

Banana Overview

Avocado Overview

AVOCADO OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

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

· Week 12, 2023 - The industry saw a significant increase of 8.28% on the previous week’s harvest with a total of 478,581 trays harvested and transported ( approx. 36,613 more trays) on Week 11, 2023 production. Of the total, approx 325,109 trays of this volume were new season Shepard avos and so it is of no surprise that we saw North Qld maintain lead production at 76.78% of the total volume; Central Qld contributing 19.52% of the volume followed by a combined effort of WA/Central NSW and Trisate contributing the remaining 3.70% (Hass).

· It is forecast that a total of 394K trays will be despatched this week nationally. The Shepard forecast for the next two to three weeks is for supplies will be gradually declining as this variety will give way to Hass - shepard volumes of approximately 360K to 290/300K trays per week expected, whilst total avocado production across this same period is expected to hit around 390000 down to 350,000 per week. The current four week average dispatch figure has increased and now sits at 397,231 trays. The weather in far north Queensland from whence the bulk of primary production is still currently being grown has been very warm during the days with a continuance of light showers. Fruit quality on farm is still very good with Shepard sizing averages falling between a Ct20 and a Ct23.

There were a little over 10,000 trays of Hass harvested last week and this figure is set to be rather steady in the lead up to Easter and then steadily increase.

Ticket pricing of avocados this week found at independent outlets ranged from $1.79 to $2.50 per piece at most retail outlets. Major supermarkets this week, offered very competitive offers for premium Shepard in Qld - ticketed at $1.99 to $2.00ea. Market pricing in the two eastern seaboard locations was steady with prices ranging $24-$36/tray (for exceptional quality up to $36/tray) for premium fruit and $18-$28/tray for class one. Market pricing for Shepard bulks, premium; class one and second bulks, have been ranging $10.00-$28.00/ctn. Some Independent retailers, continue to offer large sized premium fruit 2/$4 and 2/$5.00.

Avocado display presentation in Qld stores this week was generally pleasing. Fruit age ranged 8 to 15 days from packed date on tray labels that were visible. A little minor scarring and nodule damage observed.

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 in stores visited. The fruit on shelves varied in condition with maturity ranging just yielding to just about ready to eat. Also noted in Coles stores, Autumn Hass which was ticketed at $1.80-2.00ea and were displayed alongside NQ Shepards. One Woolworths store also stocked Purpleskin Hass, priced at $2.50ea.

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

RETAIL SNAPSHOTS OF AVOCADOS

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

Coles stores had Shepard avocados in Count 20-25 priced at $2.00ea. Fruit was well presented with age 8 to 16 days old. Growers included Howe Farming; Rock Ridge; Costa’s Lovacado. Odd piece supplied by Costa’s with anthracnose.
5 piece prepacks priced at $6.90ea and Ikg I’m Perfects at $6.90/pack.

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

Greenskin Shepard in counts 25 @ $1.99 each - some skin scarring present.
5 piece packs priced at $6.49ea and 1kg packs at $5.99ea.

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

Stores had Count 20-25 Greenskin Shepard avocados at $1.80-2.00 each. Age is 8-14 days old.
Stores also commenced stocking Purpleskin Hass, priced at $2.50ea. Note some of this stock which was ripe, was spongy and did not present well.
1kg Odd Bunch packs at $6.00ea and 5 piece packs at $6.50ea.

BANANA OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

Over the last week in the far north, early A.M. temperatures have ranged 17.0 - 22.7 C across all major growing regions - whilst day time temperatures were warmer ranging 27.5 to 30.9C. In terms of rainfall, all major growing regions have received a similar amount to previous weeks. Both Mareeba and Walkamin received between 3-8mm each, whilst Tully and Innisfail have received 50 to 53mm across the week. The forecast for the next week is for the sunny weather with the chance of isolated showers across these regions.

Independent retailers were selling bananas at $2.99 to $3.50/kg this week. The markets have moderate supplies of cavendish relative to demand.

The presentation of Cavendish presented this week continues to have bright bloom (odd appearance of a few dull clusters which appear to be temperature related during the supply chain) with a light presence of minor dry scar; small rub marks; and neck injuries.

Retail ticket pricing in Queensland on bananas exhibited minimal change from last week with Aldi’s banana ticket price at what seems like a standard $3.49/kg; Woolies offered fruit at a ticket price of $3.50/kg at all three locations visited; whilst Coles were offering fruit at $3.50/kg at one location and $4.00/kg at the others. 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 Browns Plains, Sunnybank and Garden City

Cavendish were priced at $2.99-3.50/kg and Kids packs were at $3.00-3.50ea.

Quality across stores varied with some clusters having minor skin marking. Bloom was generally bright.
Lady Fingers were priced at $4.90/kg on special. Red Tips at $5.50/kg. Organic also at $5.50/kg.

Below: Aldi Browns Plains, Sunnybank and Garden City

Stores had Cavendish @ $3.49/kg, there was a presence of light skin marking, rub marking, neck injury- good bloom generally with about half green fruit.
Lady Fingers were priced at $5.79/kg as an Aldi Super Saver. No stock of these in any stores however.

Below: Woolworths Browns Plains, Sunnybank and Garden City

Woolworths had Cavendish bananas priced at $3.50/kg, Lil Sana kids banded clusters at $3.00.
Lady fingers were priced at $6.00-6.50/kg, Red tips were priced at $5.00/kg and Organic Clusters at $5.50/kg.

April 25, 2023

2023 Week - 12

April 25, 2023/ Paul Wilson

QUICKLINKS

Banana Overview

Avocado Overview

AVOCADO OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

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

· Week 11, 2023 - The industry saw a significant increase of 44.97% on the previous week’s harvest with a total of 441,968 trays harvested and transported last week ( approx.137,000 more trays) on Week 10, 2023 production. Of the total, approx 314,000 trays of this volume were new season Shepard avos and so it is of no surprise that we saw North Qld maintain lead production at 82.75% of the total volume; Central Qld contributing 14.86% of the volume followed by a combined effort of WA/Central NSW and Trisate contributing the remaining 2.38% (Hass). The weather was definitely kinder this week, though not without a few showers, it definitely has eased with beautifully warm days.

· It is forecast that a total of 447K 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 330K to 360K trays per week expected, whilst total avocado production across this same period is expected to hit around 348-400K per week. The current four week average dispatch figure has fallen and now sits at 362,860 trays. The weather in far north Queensland from whence the bulk of primary production is currently being grown has been very warm during the days with a continuance of light showers. Fruit quality on farm is very good though sizing averages falling between a Ct20 and a Ct23.

There were a little over 8,000 trays of Hass harvested last week and this figure is set to be rather steady in the lead up to Easter and then steadily increase.

Ticket pricing of avocados this week was clean at $1.79 to $2.50 per piece at most retail outlets. Major supermarkets this week, ll had very competitive offers for premium Shepard in Qld - ticketed at $1.79 to $2.00ea. Market pricing in the two eastern seaboard locations was steady with prices ranging $28-$32/tray (for exceptional quality up to $34/tray) for premium fruit and $15-$20/tray for class one. Market pricing for Shepard bulks, premium; class one and second bulks, have been ranging $6.00-$30.00/ctn. Some Independent retailers, continue to offer large sized premium fruit 2/$4 and 2/$5.00.

In terms of Avocado retail pricing in Qld shelf prices were as follows - Aldi Qld had NQ Shepard ticketed at $1.79ea; Coles Qld had new season Shepards ticketed at $2.00ea, and Woolworths also had NQ Shepards selling at $2.00/ea in stores visited. The fruit on shelves varied in condition with maturity ranging just yielding to just about ready to eat. Also noted in Coles stores, Autumn Hass which was ticketed at $1.80ea and were displayed alongside NQ Shepards. One Woolworths store also stocked Purpleskin Hass, priced at $2.50ea.

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

RETAIL SNAPSHOTS OF AVOCADOS

Below: Coles Displays from Sunnybank Hills and Indooroopilly

Coles stores had Shepard avocados in Count 20-25 priced at $2.00ea and Autumn Hass priced at $1.80 per piece. Fruit was well presented with packed dates of 6th March to the 14th March meaning fruit was 8 to 16 days old. Growers included Howe Farming; Rock Ridge; Costa’s Lovacado; and Obie Farms.
Prepacks are on special this week with 5 piece prepacks priced at $6.90ea and Ikg I’m Perfects also at $6.90/pack.

Below: Aldi Displays from Sunnybank Hills and Indooroopilly

Greenskin Shepard in counts 23 @ $1.79 each - some skin scarring present.
5 piece packs priced at $6.49ea and 1kg packs at $5.99ea.

Below: Woolworths Displays from Sunnybank Hills and Indooroopilly

Stores had Count 20-25 Greenskin Shepard avocados at $2.00 each. Age is 8-14 days old.
Stores also stocked Purpleskin Hass, priced at $2.50ea.
1kg Odd Bunch packs at $6.00ea and 5 piece packs at $7.50ea.

BANANA OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

National transport figures for last week (Wk 10/2023) of 441,142 cartons saw a significant increase of 23.4% (some 83,917 ctns more than previous week). Over the last week in the far north, early A.M. temperatures have ranged 19.5 - 23.6 C across all major growing regions - whilst day time temperatures were warmer ranging 25.9 to 32.8C. In terms of rainfall, all major growing regions have received a good deal less rainfall than in previous weeks. Both Mareeba and Walkamin received between 2-6mm each, whilst Tully and Innisfail have received 54 to 64mm across the week. The forecast for the next week is for the sunny weather with the chance of isolated showers across these regions.

Independent retailers were selling bananas at $2.99 to $4.00/kg this week. The markets have moderate supplies of cavendish relative to demand.

Retail ticket pricing in Queensland on bananas exhibited minimal change from last week with Aldi’s banana ticket price at what seems like a standard $3.49/kg; Woolies offered fruit at a ticket price of $4.00/kg at all three locations visited; whilst Coles were offering fruit at $3.50/kg at one location and $4.00/kg at the others. 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 Sunnybank Hills and Indooroopilly

Cavendish were priced at $3.50-4.00/kg and Kids packs were at $3.50-4.00ea.

Quality across stores varied with some clusters having minor skin marking. Bloom was generally bright.
Lady Fingers were priced at $5.00/kg on special. Red Tips at $5.50/kg. Organic also at $5.50/kg.

Below: Aldi Sunnybank Hills and Indooroopilly

Stores had Cavendish @ $3.49/kg, there was a presence of light skin marking, rub marking, neck injury- good bloom generally with about half green fruit.
Lady Fingers were priced at $5.79/kg. All Lady Fingers seemed to display significant bruising.

Below: Woolworths Sunnybank Hills and Indooroopilly

Woolworths had Cavendish bananas priced at $4.00/kg, Lil Sana kids banded clusters at $3.00.
Lady fingers were priced at $6.50/kg, Red tips were priced at $5.00/kg and Organic Clusters at $5.50/kg.
An ‘update on bananas’ on display, detailing the reasoning behind semi-condition fruit may be due to poor weather conditions in growing regions.

March 16, 2023

2023 Week - 11

March 16, 2023/ Paul Wilson

QUICKLINKS

Banana Overview

Avocado Overview

AVOCADO OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

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

Week 10, 2023 - A total of just 304,879 trays were harvested and transported last week which represents a 16.13% decrease ( approx.58,600 less trays) on Week 9, 2023 production. Of the total, approx 294,000 trays of this volume were new season Shepard avos and so it is of no surprise that we saw North Qld maintain lead production at 79.55% of the total volume; Central Qld contributing 17.89% of the volume followed by a combined effort of WA/Central NSW and Trisate contributing the remaining 2.6% (Hass). The despatch from North Qld has continued to be impacted by the continued wet weather this week. Whilst there has been some reprieve in total rainfall, however showers are forecast to continue this week.

· It is forecast that a total of 349K 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 330K to 360K trays per week expected, whilst total avocado production across this same period is expected to hit around 348-380K per week. The current four week average dispatch figure has fallen and now sits at 341,339 trays. The weather in far north Queensland from whence the bulk of primary production is currently being grown has been very warm during the days with a continuance of light showers. Fruit quality on farm is very good though sizing averages in comparison to the 2022 crop is down from a Ct 16 to Ct20/23.

Ticket pricing of avocados this week was much sharper with pricing falling for the first time this season to under $2 per piece at most retail outlets. Major supermarkets this week, surprisingly all had very similar offers for premium Shepard in Qld - ticketed at $1.79 to $2.00ea. Market pricing in the three eastern seaboard locations was steady with prices ranging $24-$32/tray (exceptional fruit is pulling $34) for premium fruit and $16-$20/tray for class one. Market pricing for Shepard bulks, premium; class one and second bulks, have been ranging $5.00-$30.00/ctn. Some Independent retailers, continue to offer large sized premium fruit 2/$4 and 2/$5.00.

Avocado display presentation in Qld stores this week was generally pleasing. Fruit age ranged 9 to 15 days from packed date on tray labels that were visible. A little minor scarring and nodule damage observed, occasional bruising and would to the skin also seen.

In terms of Avocado retail pricing in Qld shelf prices were as follows - Aldi Qld had NQ Shepard ticketed at $1.79ea; Coles Qld had new season Shepards ticketed at $1.80ea $2.00ea, and Woolworths also had NQ Shepards selling at $1.80/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. Also noted in Coles stores this week, were the re-introduction of the Autumn Hass which was ticketed at the same price as the Shepards and displayed alongside on the end display units.

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

RETAIL SNAPSHOTS OF AVOCADOS

Below: Coles Displays from Mt Gravatt East, Garden City and Sunnybank

Coles stores had Shepard avocados in Count 20-25 priced at $1.80-2.00ea. Fruit was well presented with packed dates of 28th Feb to 1st March meaning fruit was 14 to 15 days old. Growers included Greenskins; Howe Farming; Rock Ridge; Cadorin (supplied by Murray Bros).
5 piece prepacks on special priced at $5.90ea and Ikg I’m Perfects at $6.90/pack.

Below: Aldi Displays from Mt Gravatt East, Garden City and Acacia Ridge

Greenskin Shepard in counts 25 loose @ $1.79 each - some nodule damage and skin scarring present.
5 piece packs priced at $6.49ea and 1kg packs at $5.79ea.
Shepard Avocados featured in this weeks catalogue!!

Below: Woolworths Displays from Mt Gravatt East, Garden City and Acacia Ridge

Stores had Count 23 and 28 Greenskin Shepard avocados at $1.80-2.00 each. All avocados packed 28th Feb or 6th March so age is therefore 9-14 days old.
1kg Odd Bunch packs at $5.90ea and 5 piece packs at $7.50ea.

BANANA OVERVIEW

SUPPLY UPDATE

National transport figures for last week (Wk 10/2023) of some 441,149 cartons saw a slight increase of 23.4% (some 83,917 ctns more than previous week). Over the last week in the far north, early A.M. temperatures have ranged 18.4 - 24.2 C across all major growing regions - whilst day time temperatures were warmer ranging 29.5 to 33.1C. In terms of rainfall, all major growing regions continue to be impacted by rainfall., though much lighter falls than the previous three weeks. Both Mareeba and Walkamin received in the vicinity of 19-23mm each across the week, whilst Tully and Innisfail have received a reprieve of only 12.8 to 22.2mm across the week. The forecast for the next week is for the occurrence of light showers across the regions.

Independent retailers were selling bananas at $2.49 to $3.99/kg this week. The markets have moderate supplies of cavendish relative to demand.

Retail ticket pricing in Queensland on bananas exhibited minimal change from last week with Aldi’s banana ticket price at what seems like a standard $3.49/kg; Woolies offered fruit at a ticket price of $4.00/kg at all three locations visited; whilst Coles were offering fruit at $3.50/kg at all 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 Mt Gravatt East, Toowoomba and Sunnybank

Cavendish were priced at $3.50/kg and Kids packs were at $3.50-4.00ea.

Quality across stores varied with some clusters having minor skin marking. Bloom was generally bright.
Lady Fingers were priced at $5.90/kg on special. Red Tips at $5.50/kg.

Below: Aldi Mt Gravatt East, Toowoomba and Acacia Ridge

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 Mt Gravatt East, Toowoomba and Acacia Ridge

Woolworths had Cavendish bananas priced at $4.00/kg, Lil Sana kids banded clusters at $3.00.
Lady fingers were priced at $6.00/kg, Red tips were priced at $5.00/kg and Organic Clusters at $5.50/kg.

March 09, 2023

2023 Week - 10

March 09, 2023/ Paul Wilson

QUICKLINKS

Banana Overview

Avocado Overview

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.

March 09, 2023

2023 Week - 9

March 09, 2023/ Paul Wilson

QUICKLINKS

Banana Overview

Avocado Overview

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.

February 28, 2023

2023 Week - 8

February 28, 2023/ Paul Wilson

QUICKLINKS

Banana Overview

Avocado Overview

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.

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.

October 25, 2022

2022-Week -42

October 25, 2022/ Paul Wilson

QUICKLINKS

Banana Overview

Avocado Overview

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

October 25, 2022

2022-Week -41

October 25, 2022/ Paul Wilson

QUICKLINKS

Banana Overview

Avocado Overview

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.

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

September 20, 2022

2022-Week -37

September 20, 2022/ Paul Wilson

QUICKLINKS

Banana Overview

Avocado Overview

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