Freska Produce International's Gary Clevenger Discusses 2026 California Avocado Season

Tuesday, April 21st, 2026

The forecast for the California avocado season is looking bright. As we move deeper into harvest, California’s crop is playing an important role in the market—particularly in the western United States, where demand for locally grown fruit is strongest.

“As California avocados come into season, we strongly encourage buyers to support California-grown fruit. It provides a fresher, locally sourced option that resonates with consumers—especially on the West Coast—while also supporting domestic growers and helping ensure the long-term strength and sustainability of the category. California fruit offers unique value during this window, complementing imports and giving retailers a strong promotional story centered on quality, freshness, and origin,” Gary Clevenger, Managing Member, Freska Produce International, told me.

Highlighting California origin, freshness, and supporting local agriculture can drive incremental sales, he added, noting that promotions should focus on key sizes like 48s and 60s, which offer the best combination of value and movement at retail. Consistent ad activity, secondary displays, and strong in-store execution are critical to maintaining velocity during peak weeks.

California’s crop is playing an important role in the market—particularly in the western United States, where demand for locally grown fruit is strongest

“Retailers should also be mindful of timing—taking advantage of building volumes early in the season and continuing through peak availability. Working closely with suppliers to align on volume, sizing, and promotional windows will help ensure success,” Gary explained. “Finally, maintaining competitive retail pricing is key. Even as markets fluctuate, retailers that adjust pricing in line with supply will see stronger movement and better overall category performance.”

Freska’s California avocado program focuses on delivering consistent, high-quality Hass avocados, which remain the primary driver of the category, as well as GEM avocados to provide customers with additional variety and supply continuity. The supplier’s packaging is designed to meet a wide range of retail and foodservice needs, including standard two-layer cartons in key sizes and custom pack options tailored to customer specifications.

Freska Produce International’s California avocado program focuses on delivering consistent, high-quality Hass avocados, which remain the primary driver of the category, as well as GEM avocados to provide customers with additional variety and supply continuity

“We focus heavily on proper sizing, pack integrity, and presentation to ensure the fruit arrives in optimal condition. Sizing is trending well, with a good concentration in the 48s and 60s, which are the key retail sizes. Quality has been strong out of the gate, with good dry matter and eating characteristics that California fruit is known for,” Gary added. “As volumes increase, we expect to see more consistent availability, giving retailers the opportunity to promote California avocados with confidence.”