Market Report
- Thursday, 23 April 2020
We’ve been humored by the coping skills of parents, kids, teachers and stay-at– home telecommuters.
Uplifting stories, videos and images lend brightness to otherwise dark days.
We’ve seen health care workers being applauded in the streets. Family members in isolation have been shown on opposite sides of window panes displaying devotion.
Total strangers are reaching out with meals, supplies and groceries to neighbors in need. Good deeds are captured on smartphones and video cameras for the world to witness.
- Thursday, 16 April 2020
Also on the radar is the not so funny reality about true hair colors coming to light, post self-distancing.
One truth is that self care comes in many forms. In the wake of staying healthy, there are multiple ways to nourish, soothe, comfort and pamper.
Taking vitamins and supplements is an act of self-care. Staying on top of daily requirements is a simple, singular thing that may indeed provide some immunity insurance.
Maintaining a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, proteins and whole foods is a necessary practice during stressful times. Stress eating carries a number of faults that derail healthy outcomes.
- Thursday, 09 April 2020
The iconic cult classic is a movie in which the main character, brilliantly played by Bill Murray, is caught in a time warp.
His guy relives the worst day of his life, over and over. Part of the premise is around the self-absorbed and arrogant behavior of Phil Conners. Without any consequence, he indulges in reckless activities.
Cut to 2020 and the COVID-19 crisis. Every day we wake up to more dismal news, climbing statistics and what looks to be a repeat of the day before.
The current spell hangs over every person, every business and every agency. We are desperate to break the cycle.
Staying connected with others is a challenge as millions follow mandates to shelter in place. The human spirit is tamped down without the powerful forces of touch, kindness and compassion.
- Friday, 03 April 2020
Technology has risen to the occasion when it comes to keeping us connected in these days of “social distancing”.
Online shopping and pick-up services have enjoyed a surge in demand at retail.
Once we move past the COVID-19 crisis, it will remain to be seen how this retail shopping segment fares.
Restaurants of all levels of service (fast casual to high end, white linen) have been hard hit in keeping the doors open. Ones that can offer curbside pickup or take out, are being creative in adapting menus.
Feeding consumers is deemed an essential service. Restaurants have been there for our celebrations. Every milestone– birthday, anniversary, retirement or promotion feels special when enjoyed at a favorite dining place.
To those who are the regular weeknight home cooks, dining out is a big reward. The break from the norm gives an individual a chance to relax and be “waited on”.
Dining out typically gives choices not usually in the home meal plan rotation. Fewer choices is new norm. Picky eaters are without their favorite go to.
- Thursday, 25 April 2019
Even though strawberries are grown year-round in California, it seems like we appreciate them more when they are at peak of season.
Inclement weather this year has kept us guessing as to when the robust strawberry-producing regions around the state will see some good spring volumes.
From San Diego to Monterey (Watsonville/Salinas), California has several strawberry varieties in commercial production. Each one has its own characteristics, advantages and harvest time.
University of California scientists have bred strawberry quality standards for size, firmness, shelf life, yield, and resistance to disease. By name, some varieties include Aromas, Camarosa, Camino Real, Chandler and Ventana.
Consumers usually never see the varietal named, but we know what we like. Supple, juicy, sweet-tart berries that make us grateful for shortcake, waffles and chocolate.
- Thursday, 18 April 2019
Every day is Earth Day in the demanding world of agriculture. Today’s farmers are keenly aware of the value of water, soil and clean air.
These irreplaceable assets are essential to providing for our food security. Sustainable farming practices connect the dots for farmers and the land and surrounding natural habitats.
The future of food and that of the planet are inseparable. What we choose to grow, how we grow it and what we want to eat in the future deeply influence the natural environment.
It’s been suggested that adopting one of three (Mediterranean, pescatarian or vegetarian) dietary plans would not only improve human health factors (Type 2 diabetes, cancer and heart disease) but would also positively affect environmental impact.
Data is stacking up to support the links between diet-health-environmental challenges.