Coles customers were recently informed through store notices that blueberries were in “short supply” after being featured in a catalogue that launched on July 23.
The supermarket confirmed that heavy rainfall in key growing regions had disrupted the supply of the popular berries, which usually peak from September to December.
Woolworths is also grappling with the shortage, struggling to meet customer demand. A notice in stores this week stated: “An update on blueberry supply: Rain in growing regions has impacted availability. We’re working closely with our growers to restore supply as soon as possible.”
Cosimo Macri, berry category manager at Express Fruit Service at Sydney Markets, told 9Honey that the shortage is expected to last through August, affecting growing regions from Coffs Harbour to Byron Bay.
Even though some blueberries are sourced from the Sunshine Coast and farther north, the volumes from these areas are insufficient to meet demand from Australian shoppers.
Amid the supply challenges, prices remain volatile. At Coles, a 125g punnet of blueberries recently dropped from $5 to $4.70. Woolworths is selling the same size punnet for $4, while Aldi offers them at $3.99.
Despite the current shortage, berry enthusiasts can look forward to Queensland’s strawberry season, which normally begins in late August, promising a fresh wave of berry good options.
