"This year, the quality aspect has had an important role in the sales of our Candy® strawberries. In the approximately six months of sales, the economic results have been excellent for the main players in the supply chain, namely the producers," says Loris Gentile, commercial director of the Gentile Group, speaking about the second year of sales since the launch of the 'Candy - premium selection line.'
"The brand has stood out thanks to its original and attractive packaging, which has raised the curiosity of the trade and consumers alike. It is actually not common to find fruits and vegetables packaged in soft colors. The product was almost exclusively packed in 500g trays, and the work of our growers was clearly recognized. The selling prices were much higher than last season. And also, thanks to its high productivity, one hectare of Candy strawberries brought in over €160,000 this season, compared to just over €100,000 in the 2021/22 campaign."
Gentile told us that even consumers in southern Italy have
appreciated the product, precisely in those southern cities where, due to the large gap between north and south due to the cost of living, prices tend to be much more competitive. "The operators in the central-southern regions paid as much for the product as the northern operators. The sales peak was reached in March. We were able to create a relationship of trust, first and foremost, with the buyers. Feedback from consumers was not slow in coming. Families willing to pay for quality, despite inflation and a general reduction in purchasing power, were not disappointed.
For some growers, the season lasted until the end of June. The bad weather reduced the supply of summer fruits, and this turned out to favor strawberries. "We are now in the process of signing contracts for 2023/24. We expect to double the acreage for that."
For more information:
Gentile Group
Via S. Valicenti, 6
75025 - Policoro (Mt)
Tel.: (+39) 379 2280437
[email protected]
gentilegroupitalia.it