The last published USDA Cold Storage Report for the end of November shows a decline in total cold storage holdings of strawberries for 2018 versus 2017. The end of December report has been delayed, but it should also show a much lower inventory when it is published later this month. The currently low inventory position is driving some scarcity in the strawberry market. Certain pack styles are unavailable today for purchase on the open market. Mexico has been slow in getting started in their processing plants this year as well. California is currently delayed in production of fruit from their fields due to weather events. Demand for product from California could be high as the processing season gets underway later this year.
