According to Max van Ooijen from Tolpoort Vegetables, the market situation for endives is currently good. "There isn't a large supply, but it's enough to meet ongoing contracts and the demand in the spot market. Particularly in Belgium, the supply was limited this summer, which set the stage for the high prices. These prices continue to remain at a high level. Last week, auction prices in Belgium ranged between €2.50 and €3, with some exceptional higher prices. Demand remains strong, especially from Italy, which is always an important market for endives."
"Due to last year's moderate harvest, growers are already switching to new endive plants this year. Last week, the growers began harvesting the plants, which will be set up in the coming weeks. So far, the harvesting process is going well, but it's always uncertain how large the yields from the first plants will be. The heavy rainfall from last winter has leached minerals from the soil, and the question remains what effect this will have on endive cultivation throughout the year," says Max.
For red endives, this year has been exceptionally good. "Prices have been very high throughout the year. At the peak, red endives were sold for €55 per box of 3 kg. Prices have since dropped to around €20. While that may seem low in comparison, it's still a solid price," continues Van Ooijen. The additional planting in response to high prices has not been significant this year. "According to seed companies, the acreage in the Netherlands remains about the same."
For more information:
Max van Ooijen
Tolpoort Vegetables
Tolweg 7
1616 AT Hoogkarspel
Tel: +31 (0)6 57 29 99 95
[email protected]
www.tolpoortvegetables.com