This year, the number of retailers promoting California avocados during the lead up to Cinco de Mayo (April 29 – May 5) climbed significantly from three to 14 (a 367% increase). A variety of promotions showcasing the locally grown fruit took place in Albertsons/Vons, Bristol Farms, Gelson’s, King Soopers/City Market, Mi Tierra, Mollie Stone’s, New Seasons Market, Nugget Markets, Raley’s, Ralphs, Safeway, Sprouts Farmers Market, Target and The Fresh Market. Cinco de Mayo continues to be one of the biggest weeks of the year for avocado sales.
This year, avocado retail sales in California and the West reached 17 million units and $22 million during the holiday week, with retail units up 1% compared to the prior year. Overall, import shipment volume declined due to a 30% drop in total volume from Mexico. However, 2025 marked another year of strong supply of California avocados. For the four weeks leading into Cinco de Mayo California supply was up 19% versus 2024.
Total category retail dollars increased by 6% across the Western U.S., while the average retail price per unit rose by 5%. Bulk avocados led in retail sales in California and the West regions, accounting for 77% of total units sold, while bagged avocados made up the remaining 23%. Growth in the category was driven entirely by the bagged segment, which increased 7% year over year. The standout performer was the 6-count bag of small avocados, which saw a remarkable 391% gain in unit sales compared to the same period last year.
Sources: Circana, California and West regions MULO, week ending 05-04-2025 vs. prior year;
Hass Avocado Board Supply Volume 4-weeks ending 04-27-2025 vs. prior year
