Quarter one sales statistics are now available from the U.S. with fresh produce leading all perimeter departments in unit growth. Pounds sold were more modest, a fact that industry observers attribute to shoppers trading down to smaller sizes and portions. Avocados, blueberries, raspberries and broccoli experienced the greatest growth in Q1, according to the Fresh Produce Association’s FreshFacts on Retail report.

“Health resolutions coupled with key holiday moments made Q1 a prime time of year for consumers to evaluate and restructure their eating habits, including increased consumption of fresh produce,” said Miriam Wolk, United Fresh’s vice president, member services.

The report, produced in partnership with Nielsen Fresh and direction from the United Fresh Retail-Foodservice Board, measures retail price and sales trends for the top 10 fruit and vegetable commodities as well as other value-added produce categories. The report is sponsored by Del Monte Fresh Produce.

The complete FreshFacts on Retail report can be downloaded free of charge for all United Fresh members ($50 for non-members) here. If you have questions, contact Miriam Wolk, United Fresh’s vice president, member services at 202-303-3410. For questions about specific data contained in the report, contact Matt Lally at Nielsen Perishables Group at 813-366-8556.

Source: United Fresh, May 7, 2019 news release