228 MODERN* FRUIT MARKETING 



3,000,000 packages exclusive cf the vegetables, return- 

 ing to the distributors over $3,000,000 net. This fruit 

 was shipped to 243 cities in 38 states, to 33 cities in six 

 Canadian Provinces and 179 carloads were exported to 

 16 cities in 10 European countries. Of the 3,958 cars of 

 fruit shipped, 54% started on f. o. b. order and 45% 

 as tramp cars. Of these, 83% w^ere delivered on f. o. b. 

 basis, the balance being consigned or sold through the 

 auctions.. This means that about 90% of the fruit that 

 was started as tramps was sold by the agents before ar- 

 rival at the Eastern destination. In previous years, 

 when handled by the separate exchanges, it was estimated 

 that less than 30% of the fruit was sold on an f. o. b. 

 basis. 



As one might expect, this organization had its diffi- 

 culties. Cars were rejected. Some met with accident in 

 transit. Some of the packs and grades were not up to 

 standard. Claims were filed against the concern that 

 had to be debated in court. But through it all, quite a 

 remarkable record was made for the first year. What 

 the final outcome will be time alone will tell. It is likely 

 that some of the local associations will withdraw. Some 

 of the details may have to be re-organized but the basic 

 fundamental principles of the plan are correct. 



In the first annual report of the organization is given 

 a list of 17 reasons why the distributing association is 

 desirable for fruit growers of the Pacific Northwest. A 

 part of these follow that the reader may draw his own 

 conclusions. 



1. It places at the service of the grower a body of 

 trained and experienced experts, better equipped and 

 better informed than the buyers; it maintains a com- 



