Waterman Onions loaded the last 'air' onions this week. The rest will come from cooled crates. "And, thus, the scenario imagined in February - onions would run out in April - didn't materialize after all. Apparently, the market goes into some kind of survival mode, and the onions never actually run out," says Wim Waterman of this Dutch company which celebrates its 25th anniversary this year.
"The high prices play a role. Particularly overseas destinations are dropping out sooner, especially Asia and Africa. That's slightly less of a problem within Europe, also because they don't have to deal with import duties."
The last 'air' onions from Meijer being loaded
"It was generally a very unusual season, but that, this time, ended on a positive note. With these rising prices, everyone in the chain who was awake could earn something," explains Wim. "From the off-land season on, growers managed to benefit from the good prices. Though, the tough growing season conditions made it a poor-quality season. Not all onions will be packed; some will go to the industry."
What do you expect from the new crop? "Disturbing reports are coming from [the Dutch province of] Zeeland," Wim answers. "But, it's too early to draw conclusions. The new onion season is off to a hot start, and only enough rain can cool down the market. Old onion prices are nearing the new ones or vice versa. The market, however, still really has to settle down. There's plenty of talk, but little business is being done," he concludes.
For more information:
Wim Waterman
Waterman Onions
12 Hannie Schaftweg
8304 AR, Emmeloord, NL
Tel: +31 (0) 527 617 496
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.waterman-onions.nl