Marc Bybee of Eagle Eye Produce located in Nyssa, OR, provided an insight into market situation as of the 5th of November. Bybee said that the demand for his products remains steady, and efforts are being taken to improve prices, which has led to the price of certain goods increase. However price increases, they haven’t reached the levels expected, based on storage inventory and the production cost. As the harvest is over with the end of October, there is a chance that the market will take more firmly on pricing and could result in greater return. The tightness of supply varies. various colors of mediums sometimes difficult to find with consumer packs growing in popular ahead of Thanksgiving. Market participants are waiting for a definitive indication of price changes in the face of transportation issues that are exacerbated by the weather. Elections in recent times are thought to have an impact on business decision-making, which highlights the wider social and economic background.
Ken Stewart from Asumendi Produce located in Wilder, ID, reported on November 6, that the there has been a slowing of demand which is due to Thanksgiving happening at the end of this month. But, there’s a lot of hope that orders will increase when the holidays are near. The market is stable in all sizes and hues and colors, but there is a particular focus on the red onion and coming from Mexico. Stewart added that he has seen satisfactory the quality of this year’s crop. The transportation industry is moving from reefers to flatbeds due to the cold winter months, which can impact shipping costs.
John Vlahandreas of Wada Farms located in Salem, OR, commented about the market demand and circumstances on the 6th of November. It is a time to focus on order for Thanksgiving, with high-quality products being taken from Idaho, Oregon, and Washington. The markets for onions are solid, with notable growth in red onions, and an varying pricing environment for whites. The yellows have broken even. affected by the increase in productivity and costs for labor. The weather has also impacted transportation in particular in Wyoming as well as Colorado.
Rick Greener with Greener Produce located in Ketchum, ID, observed an unseasonal slowdown in the demand for his products, which could be because of the election. Greener anticipates an increase in orders for Thanksgiving in the next few weeks. He will be shipping from several states that have good top quality products. Market trends show a constant need for reds and whites while yellows do not perform too well. The transportation issues are expected to be an issue due to the switch to reefers.
David DeBerry of Southwest Onion Growers located in McAllen, TX, and Chuck Hill of The Onion House located in Weslaco, TX, provided information regarding The Colorado Western Slope as well as Corinne, UT, regions with a focus on steady operations and outstanding high-quality. Market conditions are stable, and freight prices are rising seasonalally. The planting process in Mexico as well as South Texas is on schedule for next season which indicates a steady supply chain.
Source: Onion Business