COLOMBIA

Feedback from the Trade on Their Plans and Interest in the USA Pear Season:

Northwest pears were not available in the market. Importers reported that price at origin was still high compared with other origins like Argentina and Chile, making Northwest pears less competitive. Importers and retailers are still interested in Northwest pears, but price at origin is limiting their purchase decision.

Expectations for Any Freight or Logistics Challenges:

There are no challenges or concerns related to freight or logistics issues.

Opportunities in Your Market for Specific Varieties, Sizes, and Grades:

Anjou and Packham from the Northwest are the main varieties requested by importers due to the increase in their demand at both wholesale and retail, but the purchasing decisions are influenced by prices at origin. Small and medium sizes are preferred by trade members, with quality US#1 and Fancy.

Update on the Competition in the Market:

Pears from Chile reported the highest volumes in the market. Importers continued importing from this origin to supply the wholesale and retail sector. Volumes are expected to increase during February, as importers comment that they have received quotations for pears from the new harvest. At wholesale, pears from Chile reported 44% pear market share, with 42% in supermarket stores and 44% in traditional channels; sales and quality were reported as good. Pears from Argentina were the second supplier in the market with 36% share in the wholesale sector and 38% at both supermarket stores and traditional channels. Sales and quality were reported as good during this month. Volumes are expected to remain at the same level during the next month, with importers receiving more loads during the next weeks. Domestic pears held 20% share in the wholesale and supermarket sectors, with 38% in traditional channels; good sales and quality were reported. Volumes of domestic pears are expected to remain at the same level for the next month.

Political or Economic Issues Impacting Imports, Retail, or Consumer Behavior:

Under the logic that “less is more,” Grupo Éxito has made the decision to close 150 outlets, nationwide, of its subsidiaries of the Super Inter, Surtimax and Supermayorista brands, to replace them with Carulla stores. The process, which has already begun in Bogotá and Medellín, will take four years and will require an investment of close to 560 billion pesos, according to the new general manager of Grupo Éxito, Carlos Mario Giraldo.

Other Brief Comments:

None at this time.