TGIFF

That was one broker's comment on the past week.  Considering the proximity to Thanksgiving, it was a bear of a week for veggie sales.  The markets are shaky and the chains are holding back waiting for cheaper pricing.  Although with the prevalance of long term contracts, there is not nearly the excitement there was 20 years ago.  The contract provides security for the buyer and seller, but it tends to depress the open markets.  Less business for the terminal markets translates into a weaker tone, which makes the growers without contracts more desperate.  That means they will quote the chains cheaper prices for next season, and the death spiral picks up speed.  As a broker, I want a wild west scenario where everyone starts on an equal footing.  Then the extra acres will not be planted and the price will reflect the actual cost for doing business.