G.lli Ialuna was established in 2000 and is a partner of the Rossa di Sicilia PO (www.rossadisicilia.it). "Actually, one of the historical citrus groves was planted after WWII. Cultivation methods were passed on through the generations and were then enhanced with new technologies. We specialise in red oranges, and the organoleptic qualities of our produce distinguishes it from the others on the market."
"We sell our produce to the main domestic wholesale markets and retailers through the Rossa di Sicilia PO, but mainly we ship it abroad to Switzerland, France, Belgium, Germany, The Netherlands, England, Denmark and Poland." According to Giuseppe, oranges are particularly popular abroad, whereas the market is rather quiet in Italy.
The year is characterised by medium-small grades and consumption is very high abroad. "Italy seems not to want to consume domestic produce," states Giuseppe.
The year is characterised by medium-small grades and consumption is very high abroad. "Italy seems not to want to consume domestic produce," states Giuseppe.
Oranges are mainly sold under the "Viva di Natura" brand, part of the Rossa di Sicilia PO, so that the produce can be more homogeneous. The packaging is dynamic and recognisable both in Italy and abroad.
In addition, three years ago F.lli Ialuna started a plant adoption project called "Adotta La Rossa" which is doing well also thanks to the fact that the products are 100% traceable.
Challenges
"Bad weather is always a problem. In the next few months, the challenge will be tackling CTV and citrus greening, which worry both producers and operators. Unfortunately, the State is not helping against CTV, and so many producers have to use their own money to solve the problem."
Giuseppe hopes that the Citrus Black Spot won't add to the already existing problems, and is in favour of the EU blocking all citrus imports from South Africa.
As regards competition from other countries, he states that "it is not possible to compare red oranges to any other fruit, so we are not afraid of competition from Spain, Morocco or Greece. Australia also produces red oranges, but they are counter-seasonal. We are actually more in competition with the other Sicilian producers."
Future objectives
"We definitely want to widen our range, but we mainly aim at entering new markets in Asia and Russia. Once in, we hope to be appreciated by consumers, as our product is very sought-after."
"In addition to the organoleptic characteristics of our oranges, our enthusiasm represents our added value," concludes Giuseppe Ialuna.
The company is available on Tacler (www.tacler.com).
Contacts:
Giuseppe Ialuna
Azienda Agricola F.lli Ialuna
Cell.: +39 339 2719006
Email: azienda.ialuna@virgilio.it