As Pune experiences an early surge in summer temperatures, residents are encountering an unexpected rise in the prices of lemons, a kitchen essential for many. In a span of just two weeks, the cost per lemon has jumped from Rs 5 to Rs 7-8 in retail markets, with projections indicating a potential increase to Rs 10 per lemon by the end of the month.
Impact on Consumers and Markets
This sudden price surge is affecting consumers across the city. A homemaker commented on the situation, stating, “Last year, prices shot up around April. I am planning to buy some lemons in bulk to store lemon juice ahead of summer.” The wholesale market is feeling the repercussions, with prices escalating from Rs 30-70 per kg last month to Rs 60-100 this month, according to Mahendra Kalbhor, head of the department at Pune APMC. Wholesale markets, relying on sources from Pune, Solapur, and Hyderabad, are bracing for further increases.
Contributing Factors
Water shortages have contributed to smaller lemon sizes, aggravating the price surge. Vendors at Market Yard anticipate prices to rise further in the coming week due to these shortages. Retail vendors are adapting their sales strategies in response to the escalating costs, with one vendor in Hadapsar mentioning, “We have been selling lemons at Rs 20 for 3 pieces, but probably we will have to sell at Rs 20 for 2 lemons in the next two weeks or so.”
Market Dynamics and Consumer Adjustments
The seasonal demand for lemons, coupled with spoilage during transportation, traditionally leads to higher prices. Vendors, including a lemonade stall owner near MG Road, are considering adjustments to cope with the price surge. Expressing concerns over losing customers, the stall owner said, “I plan to shift to buying readymade syrup once prices rise further.”
Reshaping Consumer Behavior
The escalation in lemon prices is reshaping consumer behavior and market dynamics in Pune. Vendors and consumers alike are navigating through the challenges posed by this unexpected early summer trend, adapting their strategies and making adjustments to cope with the changing landscape.
