"The general trend is positive, with an adequate supply of goods maintaining an active market and satisfactory demand. Currently, our range is almost at full capacity, although there is lower availability of certain items, such as coloured cabbage, broccoli and fennel, than there are requests," says Cosimo Leggiero, sales manager for the Italian Miss Freschezza brand.
"During the production phase, we encountered several challenges, particularly with the broccoli crop due to the humidity and excessive heat," says Leggiero. "Some phytopathologies presented challenges that affected the quality of several production batches. The above-average temperatures also led to overproduction. With the return to typical temperatures, this has now been resolved. However, the current period has resulted in reduced availability of cauliflower and broccoli. As a result, we are currently experiencing a shortage."
Cosimo Leggiero (sales manager) and Antonella Branio (export manager) of Ortofrutticola Egnathia, representing the Miss Freschezza brand
In terms of vegetable availability, Leggiero notes an improvement compared to October. Fortunately, the current quantities are limited. Conversely, there is a significant demand for coloured cabbage, fennel, Catalan chicory and turnip greens, which exceeds the current supply. Therefore, the markets remain stable and there are no indications of saturation. This situation is likely to persist until the holiday season."
"With regard to certain references, such as fennel, Catalogna puntarelle chicory and Swiss chard, we are entering fields that are not yet fully prepared. This indicates that there is no overlap between one transplant and the next, and therefore no overproduction. The outcome will depend on the weather conditions in the coming days. The Italian markets are reporting consistent sales, as are the supermarkets we have on our distribution list. The customer feedback has been positive, says Leggiero.
"Our primary export market is Germany, where, although at a slower pace, there are indications of a recovery. Due to the favourable weather conditions, the local vegetable season in the country has been extended, but it is now approaching its conclusion. We are pleased to report that orders are starting to increase. Apart from brassicas, where Spanish competition is strong, we are in a favourable position for other references such as chard, turnip greens, Catalogna puntarelle chicory, fennel and parsley."
"The recent floods in Spain pose no immediate advantages or disadvantages for our business, although they do highlight the need for a more stable and predictable climate to ensure the long-term viability of farming operations. Our deepest sympathies go out to all colleagues who have suffered damage and to all those affected by the disaster. Spain remains a significant competitor, particularly in the vegetable sector, especially in the case of brassicas."
We anticipate a positive outcome in December, which we hope will mark a successful conclusion to the year. The year 2024 has presented a variety of challenges and opportunities, varying by season. The period from January to March was less favourable, while the subsequent period has been more positive. "There is a continued passion, desire to improve and pursuit of quality, and that is why we remain optimistic," concludes Leggiero.
For more information:
www.missfreschezza.it