Prices of German apples have risen considerably in the past three weeks. "The storage apples are characterized by their quality and 
stability, and we also sense a high willingness on the part of food retailers to list the goods accordingly. What helps us is that the overseas apples are significantly more expensive compared to previous years," describes Heinz Schacht (r), managing director of the fruit wholesaler of the same name with locations in Jork and at the Hamburg wholesale market.
Despite abundant yields and good qualities, the 2022/23 season will primarily be remembered as a disastrous apple year. In this context, Schacht points to the omnipresent cost increases in fruit growing. "Producer prices were not adequate at all. In this respect, the current price trend will not save the season," explains the fruit wholesaler.
Elstar, Red Jonaprince, Jonagored as well as Topaz are currently still in sufficient supply, but for Braeburn and Gala the warehouses have been cleared, Schacht continues. "We will probably still be able to deliver Elstar from cold storage by the beginning of July at the latest. Overall, we don't expect any significant surpluses at the start of the new apple crop in the Old Country, which in turn will be an advantage for the new price negotiations." According to Schacht, the new crop has also developed well. "The blossoms have grown up nicely, so in that respect the omens are positive. However, it's still too early to make precise statements about yields in the coming season."
Since the change of name in 2013, Heinz Schacht has been at the helm of the trading company together with Resul Cakin (right). Cakin is responsible for stand sales at the Hamburg wholesale market.
Pears from overseas up to 25 percent higher in price than in the previous year
In addition to regional apples, Schacht is also dedicated to marketing table pears, such as Conference from the Netherlands, as well as pears from overseas. "We mainly purchase the varieties Forelle, Abate as well as Packham's from South Africa, Chile and Argentina. Compared to last year, there is much less shipping to Europe with steady demand, which is reflected accordingly in the quotations. Overall, we are up to 25 percent above last year's level." Dutch Conference pears are also trading significantly more expensive compared to previous years.
Although pears play only a modest role in the Alte Land compared to apples, Xenia in particular has rapidly gained in importance in recent years. "The harvest volume from regional fruit growing is visibly increasing. This year, we have already been able to market regional Xenia pears by the beginning of May. In view of the fact that new plants will be coming into production again next year, I do not rule out the possibility that we will be able to extend the marketing season further," concludes Schacht.
Further information:
Heinz Schacht
Johannes Schacht Fruchthandels-
gesellschaft mbH
Großmarkt Hamburg
Tel.: 040 338639
[email protected]
http://www.schacht-fruchtgrosshandel.de