A Message from Our CEO

To our customers,

Closing out the summer season, we remain focused on the future and our commitment to providing innovative and on-trend global products. In 2024, Roland has launched 20 Asian specialty items and is preparing to launch a Latin cuisine product line full of flavor, spice, and versatility.

Additionally, we remain committed to our disciplined supply chain management and cost mitigation efforts. On the logistics front, freight rates out of Asia, which have been surging for months, have now stabilized with levels nearly four times higher than this time last year. Due to a variety of factors including inventory dynamics and constrictions in the Red Sea, we do not anticipate rates retreating to their recent lows. Our dedicated internal teams will continue to manage these challenges to mitigate impacts on cost and product availability.

In the U.S., containerized imports have exceeded expectations, driven by strong demand for consumer-oriented goods. East and West Coast ports are handling volumes efficiently, with the Panama Canal operating near full capacity.
Meanwhile, East Coast port workers are negotiating a labor contract set to expire in September. We will keep a close eye on this situation to avoid any potential disruptions.

Looking at the crop landscape, the supply outlook for ripe olives is constrained this year due to poor harvests in major producing countries. To mitigate potential shortages, we have expanded our sourcing efforts to new geographies.

The pepper harvest in Peru is underway, and we are confident that we will not face major weather-related impacts on yields setting us up for a successful 2024-2025 season.

Inclement weather affecting the anchovy supply out of Peru continues to improve, allowing us to resume placing orders from the region. In the interim, we have maintained a stable stock of anchovies from Morocco, ensuring no disruptions in supply.

At Roland Foods, our commitment remains to provide our customers with transparent communication and the highest quality products with the priority of premium service.

To stay abreast of the most up-to-date and in-depth details regarding the supply chain, freight, and crop updates, please read our Regional Market Updates provided below.

Keith Dougherty

CEO of Roland Foods