California avocado harvest readies 330 million-pound crop 

The 2026 California avocado season is right on track with original industry projections of 330 million pounds. 

“This year’s crop of fresh, responsibly farmed California avocados is showing good sizing with outstanding quality,” said California Avocado Commission (CAC) President Ken Melban. “With about 100 million pounds still to be harvested, now is an excellent time for retailers to promote this locally grown fruit and to support domestic agricultural production.”

According to the grower organization, Golden State volumes ramped up significantly in May and June, bolstered by industry efforts to support retailers in merchandising fresh, in-season fruit.

“We have had very positive responses from retailers about this year’s demand-building marketing programs and a renewed emphasis on customized programs for retailers,” Melban said. “We’re seeing impressive results in distribution and seasonal commitments.” 

California avocados reign at retail

The CAC’s retail support programs this season include customized display bins and signage featuring local growers, in-store and online digital advertising, and social media outreach, among other materials. 

Consumer advertising continues to support the brand through the summer in targeted markets. 

In addition to Connected TV/streaming video, digital and out-of-home media will reach target consumers with CAC’s Voice of the Grower campaign, an authentic evolution of CAC’s marketing efforts that showcases growers talking about their avocados in their own words. 

Performance of targeted ads through an online shopping delivery service is also supporting industry efforts and exceeding the Commission’s expectations. 

*All images courtesy of California Avocado Commission. 

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