Changing global weather patterns and increased volatility are key factors in the Peruvian asparagus deal. Yet at Square One Farms in Miramar, FL, President Tim Ryan looks to positive prospects even in challenging times.

“We are on an aggressive growth plan and are enjoying much higher year-over-year production,” he said. “Increased volatility creates its own opportunities. Increasing supply from our perspective specifically creates greater promotional opportunities.”

Square One is aggressively investing in new equipment to expand its value-added offerings and farm production. “We believe

As asparagus imports grow despite this year’s ups and downs, marketers such as Ayco Farms embrace the chance to engage consumers.

“The data from USDA shows increasing numbers from both Mexico and Peru,” said Avi Nir, CEO of Ayco Farms Inc. in Pompano Beach, FL. “The USDA has Peru at 33 million boxes and Mexico at 29 million boxes.”

These increases result in more options for availability and promotion, advised Nir. “To move this volume, retailers must be part of the equation,” he said. “The consumer can find asparagus at every retailer every day of the year. There is a lot of opportunity for

Despite a volatile year, Crystal Valley Foods is laying the groundwork with customers for major promotion through the coming asparagus season.

“Although it has been an unpredictable year for asparagus, we do still expect to once again have good, promotable volume through November,” said Katiana Valdes, marketing director for Crystal Valley Foods in Miami. “We expect the Ica region in Peru to peak in the next several weeks making it a great time for retailers to promote. The Ica region typically will have more larger sizes available as well.”

The company is also optimistic about future

Logistics play an increasingly larger role in the Peru asparagus deal starting with changes in shipping modes.

“One major trend in Peruvian asparagus is a shift from air to ocean shipping, which began in early 2000,” said Pat Compres, CEO of Advance Customs Brokers in Miami. “We think this year we’re going to see 30 percent higher ocean volumes with air volume dropping.”

While the downside of increased ocean transportation is a reduction of shelf life, Compres noted positive economic aspects. “Instead of paying an airfreight premium you’re saving an incredible amount of money via ocean,” she

Responding to market changes through more partnerships; emphasizing consistent promotion and ramping up staff make up the playbook for Altar’s upcoming Peru season.

“We have plans to continue our Peru program and are looking for more growers who want to partner with us on consignment,” said Chris Ramirez, president of Altar Produce in Calexico, CA. “Working on a consignment basis makes it easier to market the product. It helps us react better to markets. It’s where the future is headed for Peru and it will make Peru stronger.”

Ramirez emphasized the important role of marketing and promoting

Maurice A. Auerbach Inc. in Secaucus, NJ, has been importing Peruvian asparagus directly for over 20 years.

“We have a long track record in the deal,” said Paul Auerbach, president. “Prior to the Peruvian deal, we were big importers of Chilean asparagus. Then the Peruvian deal replaced all the other South American asparagus sources and we moved with the deal, but with some of the same partners. Our relationships date back a long time.”

While Auerbach may not be one of the biggest importers, the company prides itself on being close to the market. “It’s a big advantage that we’re in the