Background on Lorena Muñoz Altamira and Her Relevance
Lorena Muñoz Altamira, the president of the Querétaro Chamber of Commerce, has reported a significant 30% increase in ice sales from April to May. This surge is attributed to the rising temperatures experienced by Querétaro, a state in central Mexico. Muñoz Altamira’s role as the head of the Chamber of Commerce makes her insights crucial for understanding market trends and supply chain dynamics in the region.
Increase in Ice Sales Across Querétaro
Convenience stores, numbering 1,700 across Querétaro, have witnessed this rise in ice demand. Muñoz Altamira clarified that the sales increase ranges from 28% to 30%, compared to the previous month.
Despite the heightened demand, there have been no reports of ice shortages so far. In previous years, logistical and delivery issues led to supply concerns. This year, distributors are employing proactive strategies to prevent such problems.
- Increased Transportation Equipment: Businesses are acquiring or renting more transport vehicles to facilitate distribution.
- Enhanced Cold Storage: Companies are investing in more refrigerated warehouse space to maintain a steady supply of ice.
Meteorological Forecast and Historical Context
According to Mexico’s National Weather Service (SMN), a heatwave is expected from May 21-23, affecting multiple states including Querétaro. This prolonged period of high temperatures has contributed to the ongoing surge in ice demand.
The SMN’s records show a steady rise in maximum temperatures throughout the year: 24.5°C in January, 27.4°C in February, 30.4°C in March, and a notable 31°C in April.
Retail Industry Overview
The beverages, ice, and tobacco retail sector comprises 82,386 economic units nationwide as of November 2024, according to Mexico’s Secretariat of Economy (SE) and Inegi data.
Jalisco, the State of Mexico, and Veracruz lead this sector with over 5,000 establishments each. Nationally, approximately 81,821 individuals are employed in this retail segment.
Key Questions and Answers
- Who is Lorena Muñoz Altamira? She is the president of the Querétaro Chamber of Commerce, providing insights into market trends and supply chain dynamics in the region.
- Why is there a 30% increase in ice sales? The surge is primarily due to rising temperatures in Querétaro, driving higher demand for ice.
- What strategies are distributors using to handle the increased demand? They are enhancing transportation capabilities, investing in cold storage facilities, and optimizing delivery logistics.
- What is the historical context of temperature changes in Querétaro? Maximum temperatures have been steadily increasing from 24.5°C in January to 31°C in April, as per SMN records.
- What is the scale of the retail industry for beverages, ice, and tobacco in Mexico? The sector comprises 82,386 economic units nationwide, with major players in Jalisco, the State of Mexico, and Veracruz.
