Mar 2, 2021
Berry expansion to continue: US Strawberry Market Update 2021

Strawberry shipments to the U.S. market increased during 2020, while heatwaves and weather shocks sent prices unusually high in some weeks during the summer.

According to a March 2021 report by RaboResearch Food & Agribusiness,

organic strawberry shipments and average prices increased on an annual basis, suggesting demand growth in the category amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

The planted area for the current marketing year will reach a multi-year high in California, with planted area in Florida and Mexico estimated to expand as well.

“While we expect lower price volatility in 2021, a healthy demand for strawberries will help prices remain at profitable levels for growers,” according to David Magaña, senior analyst – fresh produce and tree nuts.

Although transparency and food safety continue to be imperative, factors such as sustainability and social responsibility will be increasingly relevant differentiators in a more competitive environment, the report summary indicated.