California's berry harvest has reached peak production, with strong volumes across the category despite an unpredictable weather season. Raspberries are standing out as the clear growth leader, with notable shifts in varietal innovation also shaping how growers are approaching the category.
The timing matters: with BC blueberries facing pollination problems and Michigan yields down, California's strong berry output provides some supply-side relief for buyers managing the category right now. Volatile weather earlier in the season created uncertainty, but growers are delivering solid volumes.
For category managers, this is a window to move on California berries — particularly raspberries — while supply is strong and quality is holding. Worth monitoring whether the varietal shifts signal longer-term changes in what California is growing and how that affects procurement planning into next year.