"There is currently a vast supply of avocados", says Evy van Gastel of Special Fruit. "The majority comes from Peru and South Africa. There is also some coming in from Colombia and Brazil. Peru and South Africa had bumper crops this year. This has resulted in massive on-year volumes. This year, Peru's volumes grew by 20 to 20% compared to last year."
These large volumes mean that the avocado prices have been very low when compared to last year. "May and June are the biggest marketing months for avocados. We are expecting a clash in avocado supplies in June. This will result in a dip in prices. Since the prices in May and June are so low, it will be interesting to do promotions", says van Gastel.
Special Fruit only imports Hass avocados, no greenskins. "The Hass avocado is the most common in Belgium. Greenskins go mainly to Russia and the Baltic States. Green avocados are less expensive than the Hass ones. They are put on the market as a price fighter", says Evy.
Evy van Gastel
The worldwide demand for avocados is still growing. They are not only gaining popularity in Europe but also on the emerging markets such as Asia. "The opening of the Asian market means less is being sent to Europe. On the other hand, there is increased production. There is, therefore, enough of the product to distribute around the world", concludes Evy.
For more information:
Evy van Gastel
Special Fruit
36 Europastraat
2321 Meer - Belgium
+32 (0) 333 01 792
+32 (0) 331 50 843