As Christmas approaches, the supply of Spanish citrus fruits, especially clementines and oranges, is picking up noticeably. "The first clementines of Spanish origin arrived in mid-October, about 1-2 weeks later than usual," reports fruit wholesaler Peter Schenk from the Munich Wholesale Market. He is currently offering his customers mainly Clemenules, although the first Clemenvillas have now also been arriving.
The first Clemenvilla of this year's season.
All in all, Schenk can look back on a moderate start to the Spanish citrus season. "So far, the quantities on offer have been sufficient. The storms have not had any noticeable impact on the supply of goods. Meanwhile, prices for the entire citrus category are roughly on par with last year. We also have a high-quality premium brand in Brio, which is highly valued by wholesalers and retailers as well as weekly market customers."
Spanish clementines with and without leaves.
Late seasonal transition for oranges
In the first week of December, the first Navelina oranges from Spain arrived. Schenk: "This year, South African Midknight oranges were available for an astonishingly long time, and in particular, juice oranges are still available in some cases. Meanwhile, the Brix values of the Spanish Navelina oranges have not been particularly convincing so far. It should also be mentioned that Brio only starts in earnest when the taste of the fruit meets the high standards of the export market." Schenk went on to explain that prices for South African fruit had been high and stable for a long time and only started to trend downwards at the beginning of November.
Lemons and clementines from the premium brand Brio.
Cautious mood characterises wholesale market business
The mood in Munich's central wholesale market is currently rather subdued. "Demand is actually too weak for the time of year. However, it should also be noted that the Christmas business is no longer as important as it was ten years ago," concludes Schenk.
Chocolate oranges
Photo credit: Matthäus Schenk OHG
For more information:
Peter Schenk
Matthäus Schenk OHG
Großmarkt München
Tel: +49 (0)89 765298
[email protected]