Gemex moved into its new building in March. That building, immediately adjacent to this Belgian importer/exporter's DC, is just about finished. "We needed it during the summer because it was hectic from May to August. Currently, however, trading is slowing down noticeably," says Sven Jordens.
The company put its plans for a new building into action at exactly the right time, it seems. "In 2016, we moved to our current location, but around 2020, our space began running out. It was shrinking, so we decided to expand. When you see how construction cost prices have risen since then, we're delighted that we built when we did."
The new building constructed right next to Gemex's existing distribution center doubled the company's floor space. "We can't grow any further at this location, but we can certainly keep going for several years. It's nice not to have to worry about that anymore because it's anyone's guess what the winter and new season will bring in these uncertain times," Sven continues.
Wildly fluctuating market prices
And times are undoubtedly uncertain in the sector. "We expect little supply of Belgian tomatoes and strawberries this winter. Then you have to consider other ways to make money. We may have plenty of alternatives, but the increased cultivation and storage costs are choking growers. Also, widely fluctuating prices for produce like strawberries mean no one knows where they stand either. Last month, those cost almost €6 for a box. Those prices have since normalized, but this week's €1.30 is actually too low for growers."
It is also hard to keep up with the price shifts on the leek market, Sven explains. "The heat and drought have caused plenty of quality problems here. Good Flandria quality goes for €1.40, something unseen at this time of year. The lower quality class I leeks, however, are selling for around €1. Presently, it's almost impossible to find good leeks anywhere, so prices are going through the roof. It's an unusual market," he concludes.
For more information:
Sven Jordens
Gemex
3 Kaarbaan
B-3600, Genk, Belgium
Tel: +32 (0) 135 53 326
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.gemex.be