This year's overseas blueberry season got off to a challenging start, both from Peru, South Africa, and Zimbabwe. "This year, it has become clear that Argentine growers still play an important role. A few years ago, there was some thought in Europe that we wouldn't need them anymore, but now we're glad to have them," says Robbert Leisink of FruitFul-Berries in Venlo.
"Nevertheless, the berry supply on the market is not overwhelming yet and we do not expect this to change in the coming weeks. We anticipate that the supply will remain steady until weeks 43-44. In our opinion, there will not be a significant peak in Peru this year. That peak has leveled off considerably, and the supply will only be extended slightly; the necessary volumes simply won't materialize," says Robbert.
He attributes the market shortages to the lingering effects of last year's El Niño, as well as the rise in global consumption. "Under these conditions, the increase in demand is not immediately met by the plantations. This has resulted in extraordinarily high prices in the market. I can't recall seeing such high prices for blueberries over the long term. The 500-gram packages that were commonly available during periods of abundant supply have all disappeared from the shelves, and replaced by 125, 200, and 300-gram options."
Robbert observes an increasing demand, particularly in Eastern European countries. "As wages rise, consumers have more purchasing power and are spending more on premium products like soft fruit. Overall, the demand across Europe is strong, especially in a market like this, and that won't change anytime soon. However, due to the shortages, we can't fulfill all the demand. Existing relationships that we supply year-round take priority."
Meanwhile, at Fruitful-Berries, the import raspberry season is about to start. "In 10 to 14 days, we'll start with the Adelita raspberries from Morocco. The first pallets from Spain are also on their way. While there has been a slight increase in planting in Morocco this year, I don't expect it to result in a larger market supply, as planting in Spain is significantly lower due to water shortages."
FruitFul-Berries is an exhibitor with other members of Frescura at the Fruit Attraction in Madrid: Hall 6-D12.
For more information:
Robbert Leisink
Fruitful-Berries
Venrayseweg 106B
5928 RH Venlo
[email protected]
www.fruitful-berries.com