Belgian top fruit sales are currently challenging. "The pear market situation remains erratically unpredictable," says Louis De Cleene of the Devos Group. "Fortunately, we've managed to keep selling all sizes and qualities to our customers. Sales have been easier than expected, given the situation in Eastern Europe. After all, when one door closes, another opens."
"However, clients are getting tired of the market's price fluctuations. For example, Class II 60s prices are presently almost as high as Class I. You can't explain that to your buyers; it's very unrealistic. The quality of the pears offered on the market is also deteriorating. And market prices are based on these pears. Trade has been difficult in the sector for a few weeks."
"So some growers waited and are now shocked when they open their storage cells. In contrast, the Devos Group and the many pears we monitor are in a different segment. We can, thus, easily deliver the necessary quality to still meet our customers' needs, all year round," says Louis.
"The apple market is especially tough. They can't get any cheaper; everyone will go under then." What could bring an upturn? "The only way out I can see is more conscious importing," the trader answers. "And if Belgian and Dutch, even European, supermarkets were to choose to market regional top fruit even more. The current logistical situation, which is very difficult and extremely expensive, could perhaps mean something positive. But, I'm realistic and know we also survive on exports."
The Devos Group's primary focus is mostly retail but also wholesale sales in markets in Belgium, France, Germany, Spain, Britain, and Scandinavia. "We've just finished the Rubis Gold apple season, of which we have exclusivity in the Benelux. And it was great. We had too few of these apples to meet demand, so we expect plenty of them in the coming years. Anyone who tastes this yellow apple loves it," Louis concludes.
The Devos Group has a stand at Fruit Logistica, Hall 27/A-09.
For more information:
Louis De Cleene
Devos Group
66 Eugeen Cools Street
3460, Bekkevoort, Belgium
Tel: +32 (0) 167 79 758
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.devosgroup.com