Even though grape prices are good this winter, sales are lagging, says Wibo van den Ende of the Dutch company Vita Optima. "Current costs demand higher prices, which doesn't always translate into the correct volumes, margins, or turnover rates. It seems people only buying what's on sale is becoming a trend, so regular sales are under considerable pressure."
"There are very few white grapes with limited volumes available from South Africa and Peru. The supply from India has yet to genuinely pick up. Red and black grapes, however, are plentiful on the market. White grapes prices range between €14.50 and €15.50. Red and black grapes are priced from €12.50 to €14. South Africa will undoubtedly continue to send grapes until week 13/14. I hope those prices will pick up some more. The South African grapes are great to eat," explains Wibo.
"I'm expecting India to send large volumes. Freight rates are much lower, and more varieties meet European market specifications. Supplies will remain calm in the coming weeks, but ample seedless grapes will eventually start coming this way. I'm curious about these grapes' eating quality and consumer reaction in this new economic dynamic."
"I'm pleased with how Vita Optima's developed in recent years. Thanks to product knowledge, adding value in the chain, and our flexibility, we're expanding significantly, and the team grew again recently. We specialize especially in import products: grapes, citrus, avocados, and mangoes. Vita Optima handles the import, pre-packing, and entire distribution for growers, exporters, importers, and supermarkets mainly to Germany, Switzerland, Scandinavia, and Eastern Europe," Wibo concludes.
For more information:
Wibo van den Ende
Vita Optima b.v.
224 Klappolder
2665 MR, Bleiswijk, NL
Tel: +31 (0) 610 002 872
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.vitaoptimabv.com