Industry Update: Strong Peruvian Blueberry Season Amid Port Strike Challenges

The Peruvian blueberry industry is currently experiencing a strong season, with production peaking and favorable quality reported across multiple varieties. However, despite the positive outlook, logistical challenges caused by the ongoing dockworkers strike along the U.S. East and Gulf Coasts are raising concerns for exporters and distributors. This update delves into the current state of the Peruvian blueberry market and the potential impact of the port strikes, while also briefly touching on MB Global Foods’ own cranberry season.

Peruvian Blueberries: Robust Harvest and Growing Market

The 2024 Peruvian blueberry season is progressing well, with peak arrivals expected to enter the U.S. market by mid-October. This year’s growing season faced a slightly delayed start due to cooler-than-average temperatures, but the change in climate has proven beneficial for overall fruit quality. As a result, multiple blueberry varieties are now being harvested, including Biloxi and Ventura, which are favored for their size and firmness.

The current volume of Peruvian blueberries is expected to support promotional activity for retailers leading up to Thanksgiving and into the holiday season. Last year, adverse weather conditions caused significant supply shortages, making it difficult to support major promotions. However, with conditions stabilizing this year, growers are optimistic about meeting market demands.

The fruit being harvested this season is reported to have a good bloom, desirable size, and excellent texture. With improved growing conditions, both conventional and organic blueberries are expected to meet quality standards, making this year’s crop ideal for the major markets in North America and Europe.

Logistical Hurdles: U.S. Dockworkers Strike Disrupts Supply Chain

Despite the promising production outlook, the ongoing dockworkers strike along the U.S. East and Gulf Coasts is causing concern for Peruvian blueberry exporters. The strike, initiated by the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA), has resulted in the shutdown of 36 critical ports from Maine to Texas. With no immediate resolution in sight, the situation is affecting the flow of goods, including perishable items like fresh blueberries, which depend on timely shipments to maintain their quality.

The strike, which involves over 45,000 dockworkers, was triggered by a deadlock in negotiations over wages and automation concerns. The disruption could have significant implications for the supply chain, potentially delaying blueberry shipments to key markets along the East Coast. Retailers and wholesalers are already adapting their shipping strategies to mitigate these risks, but if the strike continues, it could lead to bottlenecks and increased transportation costs.

Maintaining the optimal window for blueberry freshness could become a challenge with these ongoing port delays. This, in turn, could impact the timing of promotions and availability in the retail sector, making it crucial for producers and exporters to remain flexible and explore alternative distribution channels.

Strategic Adaptations in the Face of Uncertainty

To adapt to these disruptions, some growers are looking at alternative shipping routes through West Coast ports, despite the added costs. Additionally, there is a push for more comprehensive planning and data analysis from industry bodies like Proarandanos, the Peruvian Blueberry Growers & Exporter Association, to ensure better coordination throughout the supply chain. Proarandanos is actively gathering harvest and shipment data from members to help stakeholders plan accordingly and minimize disruptions.

Meanwhile, MB Global Foods is closely monitoring the situation as it prepares to launch its 2024 cranberry season. Koolberry, MB Global’s dedicated cranberry brand, has wrapped up its harvest in Quebec, yielding a solid crop of 33 million pounds. While the port strike primarily affects Peruvian exports, there is growing concern that extended delays could have a ripple effect on broader North American supply chains, potentially impacting cranberry shipments later in the season.

Outlook: Positive Market Conditions with Cautious Optimism

Overall, the outlook for the Peruvian blueberry season is strong, with high-quality fruit expected to meet the growing demand in the U.S. and Europe. However, the success of the season will depend largely on resolving the port disruptions in the coming weeks. For now, industry leaders remain cautiously optimistic, focusing on maintaining flexibility and leveraging alternative logistics solutions.

MB Global Foods, as a global frozen food supplier, will continue to support its partners through these challenges, ensuring that clients receive consistent, high-quality products regardless of external disruptions. As we move further into the 2024 season, adaptability and proactive planning will be key to navigating the evolving landscape of global food logistics.