After the wild weather the week before, we were bracing for a tough week regarding quality. However, despite almost every consignment of all berries being checked last week on inbound arrivals at retail DC, we had very few issues, which indicates that the growers were well on top of their crops before the rain arrived and had packed according to conditions. We didn’t go without some issues, but all in all, it’s a pleasing result. We are seeing all states start to move prices up again, which is a positive as it shows demand is still strong despite ample volume (albeit past peak). The good news is that as of this week, all schools across the country are back, which will assist with demand. 

The weather forecast was optimistic at the start of the week, but by the end, a few days were washed out for the Coffs Coast growers. We expect a staggered start to the week with more rain forecasted for Northern NSW, but as per all weather forecasts, it could be hit-and-miss for each grower. 

Far North QLD (FNQ)- Production dropped this week, and this will continue through the remaining few weeks of harvest. Despite the warmer weather, quality from the region has continued without too many issues. FNQ will be experiencing warmer daytime temperatures all week, with 30-34 max temperatures, similar to last week, but slightly lower minimum temperatures, which will be welcomed across the region. 

Coffs Coast NSW—Last week, we saw some quality issues across the board; this was expected and is also likely because retailers were proactive in checking many inbound consignments. As we continue to work past the peak and with continuing rain, it’s not likely that we will see a significant improvement. But for the most part, fruit has been ok, given the circumstances. 

 WA Blueberry Production—Volumes for the state have flatlined (all growers and brands). Eureka had its second-best week on record for scan revenue, hitting $100k, with retail prices holding a lot stronger than in 2023. This represents nearly 20% of the total scan value for the state for the week. Looking at the upcoming weather for the north of Perth, the weather looks to be wet most days (minimal impact) but improving into the weekend. The southern growing region continues to increase again; there are rainy and overcast days towards the back end of the week, which shouldn’t cause too many quality issues. Temperatures only hit maximums of 17-22 degrees with minimums between 8-13 degrees. 

Strawberries—As noted above, nationally, we were 45% to peak only five weeks ago. Demand has slowed up, with retails between $3.50 and $3.90 across NSW/QLD. WA Southern Production is ramping up, and the quality is excellent. In WA, we have seen volume drop two weeks earlier than last year, and I believe we are past the peak for the winter crop. Back-to-school demand last week saw an excellent pull-through of volume in stores as well. 

Raspberries – Per our predictions last week, volume bounced back and we’re at the highest volume we have seen for 13 weeks. We expect volume to increase significantly over the next 4-6 weeks and will be the prominent berry in the category by the end of November (prior to the rabbiteye season). As per our previous communication, please ensure that you have booked your audits, and when you get a confirmation/s, please forward the email to our compliance manager, Sean Buss; otherwise, your fruit will be moved via the central markets. 

Blackberries—Blackberries have exploded in volume over the last month and are actually ahead of Raspberries for volume nationally. Pack sizes have moved in NSW to 170g to accommodate the extra volume. The volume will increase in the coming weeks, and an ample supply is expected for the short and mid-term.