Melons

Tues, Jan. 21st, 2025

Dear Ole Tyme Customers:

Melon supplies remain tight as demand continues to exceed availability for both cantaloupes and honeydews. Key updates and considerations:

Demand Exceeds Supply: Limited availability of cantaloupes and honeydews.
Honeydews: Some suppliers have declared Force Majeure on honeydews only.
Relief Timeline:
- Shipments from Costa Rica and Honduras are not expected until February or March 2025.
- Normal yields are estimated to return by weeks 8–9.
Mexican Honeydews: Limited supply available at higher prices this week.
Port Delays:
- Congestion at ports is causing vessel delays and inconsistent product availability.
- Extended transit times may result in quality issues for some melons.
Watermelons:
- Domestic melon season has ended.
- Watermelons are required on cantaloupe and honeydew orders to secure fruit.
- Suppliers recommend fresh-cut operators use watermelons as substitutes for honeydews.

Market Pricing:
- Prices are elevated and fluctuating daily.
- Contracts remain a priority, with trigger pricing now active.
- No current USDA Market Price available for melons.
Honeydews: Force Majeure and prorates are in effect.
Pre-Books: Encouraged to secure supply.
Substitutions: Suppliers may use outside labels to fulfill orders.
New Contracts: Suppliers are not accepting new contracts until market conditions stabilize.

If you have any questions, please reach out to your Sales Representative.

Thanks,

Ole Tyme Produce