Peak Volumes Anticipated from Mid February to Mid March Following Resilient Recovery Efforts

California Giant Berry Farms is gearing up for a robust strawberry season that promises to meet retail and consumer demand in the coming weeks.

With expectations of strong volumes of both organic and conventionally grown berries, the company reports that its Florida based growers will reach peak production from mid February through mid March.

An additional boost in supply is anticipated from Santa Maria and Mexico, which should help sustain significant strawberry availability for key sales periods such as Valentine’s Day and the weeks that follow.

The combination of these regional crops underscores California Giant’s year round commitment to delivering top quality fresh berries.

Florida growers faced a difficult start to the season because of Hurricane Milton, which caused setbacks in early production.

The Florida crop will feature the second year of California Giant’s new “Fresh From Florida” label a specialized addition to the classic California Giant insignia that highlights Florida agricultural products and is promoted through consumer marketing efforts, partnerships with retailers, and participation in major industry events.

This label aims to connect with shoppers who want a clear sense of origin and quality assurance for their produce.

One of the distinctive aspects of this upcoming season is the synergy of supply from different regions.

Santa Maria’s conventional and organic strawberries are expected to strengthen incrementally each week, barring any extreme weather, and Mexico’s current production is peaking at just the right time.

Taken together, these regions will provide ample volumes to cover the Valentine’s Day retail pull and then maintain steady supplies well into March.

By leveraging multiple growing locations, California Giant can mitigate weather related risks and respond to market needs throughout the season.

“Florida growers have demonstrated remarkable resilience, overcoming significant setbacks caused by Hurricane Milton, which delayed the start of the season. Their unwavering commitment to delivering fruit is truly inspiring and speaks to the collective strength of the strawberry industry.”

Tim Youmans, Vice President of Sales at California Giant Berry Farms

Looking ahead, retailers are encouraged to create compelling in store presentations to capitalize on holiday demand.

While strawberries are always popular for Valentine’s Day, California Giant recommends bolstering berry displays with complementary items often associated with romantic occasions, such as champagne, chocolate dipping kits, and specialty cheeses.

By pairing strawberries with products that traditionally complement them, stores have an opportunity to boost the overall shopping basket and attract customers seeking festive treats.

Industry wide, there is a concerted effort to increase year round strawberry consumption, and California Giant aligns with that goal by ensuring a continuous supply of premium berries.

This focus on quality and consistency helps build consumer trust in the brand, particularly during critical sales windows.

Ensuring availability of organic and conventional options alike also expands the consumer base, appealing to a broader range of tastes and dietary preferences.

The timing of the Florida peak production and Mexico’s ongoing season perfectly aligns with Valentine’s Day, traditionally one of the busiest times for strawberry sales, and supports the rising trend of holiday focused promotions.

Over more than four decades, the company has broadened its reach across multiple berry varieties, including blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries.

Today, its global family of growers, retailers, and consumers remains committed to consistent excellence.

By maintaining high standards in farming practices, distribution, and marketing, California Giant has established a presence that responds quickly to shifts in weather, supply, and demand all while keeping the wellbeing of local communities and the environment at the forefront.