The recent dark, wet weather with plenty of water and little light in the Netherlands has resulted in moderate bell pepper settings. "The available quantities are low, and supplies should dip considerably in the coming weeks," says ZON sales manager Wouter Willems.
That, he says, will lead to a significant difference in day and program prices. Yesterday, red bell peppers were auctioned for €1.50.
Green and yellow went for €1.70, and orange for €1.90. "Demand is good and broad. It comes from Germany, the Netherlands, Belgium, and Eastern Europe."
"Quality has been good all season despite the challenges with the weather. Growers occasionally had some issues," explains Wouter.
"That was with caterpillar damage, But that seems reasonably under control now. Fortunately, we haven't had much trouble with inner rot this year."
According to the sales manager, whether this can be labeled a good bell pepper year is highly company-dependent. "There's undoubtedly a huge cost-price difference, energy-wise. But at least with the middle prices achieved, we're above the five-year average. That's encouraging. Also, it'll be a while before Spain has bell peppers available. It's been very hot there, and they'll certainly not come to market any sooner than other years," Wouter concludes.
For more information:
Wouter Willems
ZON
104 Venrayseweg, 5928 RH
Venlo, the Netherlands
Tel.: +31 (0) 773 239 999
Fax: +31 (0) 773 239 719
Email: [email protected]
www.royalzon.com