West Pak Avocado encourages retailers to capitalize on the strong projected volume of the California avocado season. The global avocado supplier says strategic programs with seasonal storytelling, bag initiatives and premium variety differentiation can drive category performance and meet consumer demand.
The California Avocado Commission forecasts the state’s 2026 harvest at 330 million pounds, marking the third consecutive year the crop is expected to exceed that milestone. West Pak says this estimate includes a crop breakdown of 310 million pounds of hass avocados and 20 million pounds of premium varieties, such as Gem and lamb hass. This forecast anticipates promotable volumes around 10 million to 15 million pounds per week, which ensures a steady supply, according to the company.
“The strong volume projected by the California Avocado Commission for 2026 is a testament to the strength of the California avocado industry,” says Mario Pacheco, CEO of West Pak. “At West Pak, we are proud to partner with our retailers, providing innovative programs and merchandising support to leverage this exceptional volume and help drive significant category growth.”
Joe Nava, vice president of sales and business development for West Pak, says the California season is the time for retailers to differentiate their produce aisle.
“We encourage retailers to showcase high-quality, locally grown fruit through the peak California months, starting now and gaining momentum into California Avocado Month in June,” he says. “Our California lineup, including California-centric bags and our Farm-to-Table PLU program, provides retailers with a roadmap for a successful season.”
West Pak says its California Gold bag, which features both conventional and organic varieties, was designed to enhance key promotional moments while meeting the rising shopper demand for value, convenience and consistent sizing.
The supplier also says its California Gem avocados bag offers a compelling trade-up opportunity for retailers, as Gem avocados are slightly larger than the popular hass variety and boast thick, dark green and easy-to-peel skin with gold flecks when ripe.
West Pak also offers its farm-to-table story to further engage with shoppers who value transparency and local sourcing. This initiative provides customized PLUs that emphasize the fruit’s California origins and a direct connection between consumers and local growers.
Other promotional opportunities include aligning merchandising and promotional strategies ahead of peak availability, particularly with California Avocado Month in June, to maintain strong category momentum throughout the season.
