Industry leader Almondco Australia is predicting grower returns will soar to an all time high this year.
Almondco's general manager Brenton Woolston said today that global demand for almonds was outstripping record supply and increasing prices to levels rarely seen before.
"I cannot see any reason why we won't be paying record prices for almonds to our growers this year," he said.
"In fact, the only doubt about it being a record year will be by how much."
Mr Woolston said the positive outlook would result in Almondco paying increased returns to its growers for the sixth consecutive season.
He said Almondco had already processed a record tonnage and achieved record sales for the 2004 season with still one month remaining before completing the crop year.
He said the 2005 crop which is about to be harvested appears to be above average. "With improved yields, coupled with high prices, it paints a very bright future for Almondco growers."
"This is further proof that almonds are one of the most stable crops in horticulture," he said.
"As a debt free grower-owned organisation we are committed to passing on the best possible returns to our members and I think our track record in that area speaks for itself."
Mr Woolston said he would like to see the company's membership base increase and would be happy to talk to any interested growers.
