Drop in Del Monte’s pineapple sales in first quarter of 2019

Del Monte reported a 9% fall in its worldwide pineapple sales volumes during the first quarter of 2019. The fall is mainly due to lower volumes in North America and Europe, stemming from lower production in Costa Rica. In partial recompense, the firm recorded higher sales in Asia, while unit sales prices were also up in North America and the Middle East. Other contributing factors to the downturn are unfavourable exchange rates, higher ocean freight costs in all regions. In addition, we experienced lower yields in our Costa Rica operations which negatively affected our fruit cost and resulted in lower sales volumes in North America and Europe. Partially offsetting these decreases were higher selling prices in North America. Worldwide pineapple per unit sale prices increased 2% and per unit costs increased 3%.