US avocado sales reach 4-year high

In the US, sales of Hass avocado sales hit four -year record highs during the first quarter’s holidays. According to Hass Avocado Board (HAB) data, the increased demand during the key holidays (Big Game, Valentine’s Day, and St. Patrick’s Day) drove retail sales of US$144 million. The report provides useful information for retailers, category managers, and industry leaders as they plan holiday promotions and look for opportunities to grow avocado sales in the upcoming year.

The Big Game

The Big Game ranks among the biggest avocado weeks of the year. This year Hass avocado volume increased 5% to 57.6 million units, and dollar sales increased 1% to $51.2 million vs. the prior year. 

Valentine’s Day

Valentine’s Day dollar sales grew 9%, and volume grew 24% in 2021 vs. 2020. All regions saw double-digit volume growth, led by the Northeast at 52%. Additionally, retailers averaged 1,230 units per store. Dollar sales also increased by $3.7 million.

St. Patrick’s Day

St. Patrick’s Day volume increased 1% vs. prior year to 45.2 million units. On average, avocado retailers saw sales of $1,244 and 1,183 units per store during the holiday week. The average selling price ranged from $0.76 per unit in the South Central region to $1.31 per unit in the California region.