UK market disrupted as strikes, cost of living crisis takes toll
[{“type”:”text”,”content”:”Downward sales trends on several commodities, including grapes, have been observed. u201cCustomers are cash strapped and retailers have switched from packing fruit in 500g to 400g packaging,u201d said Damian Layton, technical manager of produce at Morrisons UK.nnu201cFrom a Morrisons viewpoint, the key sales message is that we are not always looking for the best, but rather the most consistent, product. Overall, Morrisons has received fewer complaints and issued fewer refunds on grapes than last season. Crispy, crunchy berries remain a preference for UK consumers.u201dnnIn contrast to the UK the outlook in the North American market seems more positive, with recent political unrest in Peru opening opportunities for South African producers. The main road between Ica and Lima has been blocked since 19 January 2023. Partial operations have been reported, but some areas have stopped their harvest completely.nnThe Canadian market remains stable, and indications are that demand for South African table grapes is good. Shipping volumes remain like last season, which is a positive indication.nnu201cThe USA market is currently particularly good for South Africa due to the challenges being experienced in Peru,u201d said Riaan Swart, director deciduous at Dole South Africa.nnDuring weeks 7-10 the USA market expects high volume arrivals from Chile and Peru, approximately 4 to 5 million 8.2 kg-equivalent cartons per week. This is close to market capacity and must be considered if a producer is planning to ship in this period.nnu201cConsidering market trends, the recommendation for the current season is to stick to retail programmes and established business channels in all markets,u201d Swart said.nnCasting the gaze closer to home, the Cape Town port is seeing lower levels of occupancy and is currently operating three berths.nnu201cVessels are working dual cycles, which means stacks are loaded and reefers are discharged simultaneously to optimise operations,u201d said Antoinette van Heerden, logistical affairs manager at the Fresh Produce Exportersu2019 Forum.”,”position”:0,”id”:”AcdFl91Pjr4lmsx8″}]