The Dutch mini cucumber season at Gilad Produce kicked off in March. The company has been marketing the mini cucumbers under its own brand 'Cuckies' for the past few years and currently has 7.5 hectares in production. "We've had a fantastic start this year," says Frank Mosterd.
"That's a big difference from last year, when the selling prices were already low at the season's start. However, this year, sales have been strong. I don't think there are fewer mini cucumbers in the Netherlands, but the rather dark period led to very stable supply and the mini cucumbers found their way to the market well. Additionally, Spain ended its season earlier and also had less summer cultivation," continues Frank.
"The outlook for the coming weeks is good. It's also a good season quality-wise. The first growers are already switching crops," Frank reports. The mini cucumbers find their way to the European market through Dutch exporters to retail and wholesale markets.
As flourishing as the mini cucumber sales are, red pepper sales are currently not. "At the moment, imports from Spain and Morocco are causing us problems. Those import volumes especially had a dip in April but are now entering the market in excess," says Arjen Bouma. "We're currently feeling the impact, but I expect the situation to stabilize within the next two weeks. Moreover, we're seeing an increase in demand for specialty peppers like the Habanero and Jalapeno."
"We have a good amount available this season, and compared to last season, it's been quite stable," continues Frank. "Last year, we already saw a notable demand for peppers for fresh packs, and that's continuing well this year. Even distant markets like the United States and Canada are participating actively. And in the Middle East - a market we supply through exporters - our brands Black Bullet and Chili Festival are well recognized. We're really reaping the benefits of our branding strategy now!"
For more information:
Frank Mosterd
Gilad Produce
T. +31 174 528 067
M. +31 622556700
[email protected] / [email protected]
www.giladproduce.nl