Similar to many other sectors, the pome fruit industry usually enjoys good sales during the pre-Christmas period. But the marketing of German apples has been rather disappointing so far, says Heino Umlandt, co-managing director of the family-owned company of the same name. "Current buying behavior is quite restrained and far too slow for the time of year."
According to Umlandt, the omens were promising when the harvest was done. "We envisioned a good marketing season. Because within the region, we were able to achieve quite a bountiful apple yield. All in all, the apple business ought to be busier at this time of year." 
The traditional Umlandt company does not supply club varieties, but the more well-known commercial apples, such as Elstar, Jonagold, Boskoop and the like.
Revival hoped for in the 2nd half of the season
Overall, there still is hope, Umlandt continues. "It may well be that demand will pick up again in the second half of December. We have to make sure that we don't come into the new year with too much inventory. Meanwhile, the window of opportunity tends to get tighter, so we really hope the market will pick up in the second half of the season."
Prices for regional pome fruit are now about a quarter below last year's levels. With regard to last year's exceptional situation, however, today's price levels can rather be described as "in line with the season," says Umlandt, who supplies both German wholesalers and buyers in neighboring countries. "Inventory volumes are satisfactory, with good sizes and quality."
Sales possibilities on the domestic German market for pome fruit from the Altes Land are difficult to assess right now. Umlandt: "Occasionally, our colleagues from southern Germany will call for apples from the Altes Land in the second half of the season. We'll just have to wait and see how sales over there will develop in the new year."
'Do not overreact'
Confidence and patience are the motto of the experienced fruit wholesaler, he said. "Because of the difficult marketing and the Covid situation, many people are worried. Nevertheless, we must remain calm and composed in our pricing. This means that we traders must not send the wrong signals. We should not overreact, but simply be patient and keep calm."
For more information:
Umlandt Obstgrosshandel GmbH
Heino Umlandt
Schöneworth 1
21729 Freiburg/Elbe
Tel: 04779 212 oder 1209
Fax: 04779 446
E-Mail: [email protected]
www.umlandt-obstgrosshandel.de