Gregal greenhouse melons
Greenhouse melons
"Melons from Murcia are famous for their flavour and shelf life. That is why we now also have limited production in the greenhouses in order to start the season as soon as possible. Even the greenhouse product from Murcia is much better when it comes to flavour and shelf life compared to those coming from Almeria," says Pieter de Jong. "In addition, Gregal gives us the possibility to bring in large volumes from one shipping agent. We are in the middle of the Almeria season, however, import is more difficult because production is spread over the region and there are several suppliers."
The importer has positive things to say about the season in progress. "The weather is good and, in combination with the delayed start, means good demand. The volume is gradually increasing and the prices are at a nice level. Now is traditionally a good period for melon sales. Retailers like to use this period for supermarket promotions. The prices dropped quickly last year after the start of the season, but as long as it doesn't rain too much, the prospects for the coming weeks are very good."
Shifting varieties
The importer doesn't expect any large shifts this year in the existing melon packet which includes the Galia, Cantaloupe, Yellow melons, Piel de Sapo and watermelon. "We have been seeing a yearly increase in the demand for the Piel de Sapo. The development of these varieties stood still for many years but now with strong varieties on the market, it has been hitting the spot, such as in the East block where the melon is one of the most popular. Seedless mini watermelons are the winners here is Western Europe, especially in the Dutch, Scandinavian and German market. The shelf life for these varieties were limited in the past but they have now also made a leap in quality."
By working in cooperation with breeders Nunhems and supplier Gregal, HillFresh is doing everything they can to get the melon with the right characteristics to the right customer. This includes using flavour testing panels. "We continue to succeed in getting better. The flavour, in combination with the shelf life, is first and foremost. That is how we supply varieties with specific characteristics to our sales channels such as fruit processing companies and retail. The time that the same melons went out is over," says Pieter. "We have three quality control people working in Spain throughout the entire year; in Huelva, Almeria and Murcia. During the season we even have two of our people on location at Gregal."
