It's anticipated that a record volume of Peruvian and Chilean grapes are being imported into the U.S. this season. "Industry-wide, Peru is set to export over 80 million boxes, marking a new record," says Fernando Soberanes, Vice President Sales, Long Beach, Giumarra Companies. "Meanwhile, Chile expects to harvest approximately 67 million boxes, with at least 40 million designated for export to the United States."

Overall, the company projects that the volume of imported grapes from November 2024 through May 2025 will surpass the quantity harvested and shipped from California between July and December 2025.

This season, both Peru and Chile have seen optimal growing conditions with ample chill hours and well-timed rainfall providing crucial support to the vines.

Right now, promotable volumes of Peruvian red and green grapes are shipping and will continue through mid-March. "Imports of Chilean grapes into the United States are expected to begin in early March and continue until early May," says Soberanes. "Mexican grape imports are anticipated to start in mid-May, with promotable volumes available for Memorial Day and the Fourth of July. We expect Mexican grapes to remain available through mid-July." (Giumarra Companies also offers Fair Trade Certified™ grapes from Mexico.)

In terms of varieties, in its everyday value category, the company offers its proprietary green seedless grape variety, Sweeties™, from both Peru and Chile. The variety, known for its sweetness, crunch, and balanced flavor, is a key part of the company's value grape program alongside other similar varieties.

Premium category grapes too
It's also offering ultra-premium green Autumncrisp® and Timpson™ grapes. "On red seedless, we also offer the whole spectrum from a high-value Crimson red seedless to a premium Jack's Salute™ depending on what our customers' needs and wants are for their grape category," says Soberanes, adding that Giumarra anticipates heavier availability of Chilean grape varieties, including Crimson, Sweet Celebration™, Allison™, Timco™, and Jack's Salute, in April."We have expanded our grape offerings by adding Sun World varieties from Peru and Chile. This additional volume enhances our late-season selection with premium varieties like Autumcrisp and Scarlotta Seedless®," says Soberanes. "With a diverse range of high-quality grape varieties from multiple origins, we aim to drive increased consumption and meet growing consumer demand."

For Giumarra, what's also helping the movement of grapes is its range of packaging options and comprehensive merchandising support. "Our visually appealing point-of-sale materials enhance sales programs and drive engagement," says Soberanes.