At the moment, the availability of many goods is very tight, such as from Spain, which is why prices are "exploding," says Murat Günes from Westfalen Frischdienst Ltd in Hamm. "The prices we have been getting do not reflect the current market value." Currently, he is offering eggplants from Spain, among other products. "Although January is usually a very quiet month, demand is unusually strong. But this is probably also related to the scarce availability of the goods."
"Prices for eggplants have been around 7.50 to 8.50 euros per 5 kg carton, although we expect slight increases this week. Thanks to a suitable promotional campaign and good deliveries, we have been able to generate good sales in recent weeks," Günes said. The range also includes 10 kg boxes of Class II eggplants, with specialty markets such as Arab supermarkets in particular showing greater interest in smaller eggplants. While the company would also have the option to offer organic eggplants and other organic goods, it said the market for this is not yet there.
While the company had to pay between 12,000 to 14,000 euros per container at the time of the pandemic, the price has been dropping again recently. "The prices for containers from Türkiye have dropped by 40 to 50 percent. We purchase classic products from Türkiye, such as tomatoes, but given the difference in delivery times, they cannot be compared to Spanish quality, which has an arrival time of 1-2 days, while Turkish goods are sometimes held at customs for 7-8 days longer. We notice again and again that the transport from Greece to Italy by ship is significantly shorter than overland."
Westfalen Frischdienst Ltd celebrated its fifth anniversary in November 2022. Its customers include supermarkets, wholesalers, and, above all, the food service industry.
For more information:
Murat Günes
Westfalen Frischdienst GmbH
Gallberger Weg 35
59063 Hamm
Tel.: +49 (2381) 904 99-10
Email: [email protected]
www.westfalenfrischdienst.de