The volume of Belgian pears is lower than in other years. That was the estimate anyway and it turns out to be true for many, according to Xavier Laduron. This is also the case for the grower, but he still sees the upcoming season as reasonably positive. "The kilos don't matter that much. In the end, it's about the selling price, and this season we seem to be moving towards a fair price," explains the grower and responsible sector committee fruit of Fairebel, whose basic philosophy is that everyone in the whole chain should earn a good living.
"My estimate was also wrong," Xavier insists. "I had expected 25 to 30 percent more pears, but we have finished picking since last weekend and volumes are still significantly lower than other years. That seems to be true everywhere in Europe. Picking is done almost everywhere and there will be less fruit in many countries. However, that does not need to be so negative. There is room in the market, so we are also now selling at a good price, which we can be satisfied with. After all, we have a beautiful product, where the cost with us is per hectare and not per kilo "
"We need to be cautious about our demands," he advises. "Everyone aims to earn a profit every year, but we can't afford to have a good year followed by three years of nothing. During times like these, it's important not to push too hard and risk antagonizing others. If next year's crop is twice as big, we shouldn't immediately demand 50 percent of the price. Instead, we should establish a price guideline that covers more than just our cost per hectare. By remaining reasonable and considering the prices from this year and last year, we hope that the trade will prosper, allowing us as growers to make a living."
Easier to stay positive
Qualitatively, then, the grower is also satisfied. "I don't think we are having the best year in that respect, but it is still not too bad. With the spring's frost and hail, we were very worried about the quality, but it wasn't too bad in the end. The volumes were a bit lower, so they have been given room on the tree to grow. The size is good, although there are a few pears with spots. But overall, we're not dissatisfied. I try to stay positive, as that's just my nature. It's certainly easier to be optimistic when prices are reasonable, compared to when there's nothing on the bill. So, I have to say that staying positive has been much easier this season and last," he laughs.
Comparing apples with pears
The grower will also start apple picking soon. "Only there we made the same misjudgment as with the Conference, I'm afraid. It is always difficult to estimate when there is little hanging around. Everyone always figures out a normal harvest pretty quickly, but when there is little or a lot, it is sometimes difficult to see how much is there. Still, with all my experience, I dare say that we will also see substantially fewer apples, but we will have to wait and see."
For more information:
Xavier Laduron
Fairebel
+32 (0)80 44 77 26
[email protected]
www.fairebel.be