The chicory market has been under pressure all year. "At the moment the demand is increasing slightly, which is usual coming up to Easter, but a price level around 60 cents still isn't enough. The current weather is slightly better for chicory consumption, but these prices are still far below the costing price," says Gerwin de Vries of chicory nursery LOF from Espel. "A cold winter is usually favourable for chicory consumption, as we have less competition from other vegetables. Luckily the quality of the chicory is fine."
"We had a few good weeks with red chicory, but this market has collapsed too. Countries like Belgium and France also have enough product. The quality of the chicory and also the red chicory is fine, there is enough supply but it's been sold for all kinds of prices," says Gerwin.
"Everyone is slowing down a bit at the moment. This might give us some breathing space, but I have little faith in a good end to the season. Growers will have to quit if the market is to get better. Less is being sown for the coming season, but this is for 2015."
LOF Nursery supplies to retailers, wholesalers and exporters. as well as fruit and vegetable specialists. "Our chicory mainly finds its way to countries like Italy, Ireland and Israel through exporters. We also supply a reasonable volume to the domestic market," says Gerwin. "Slightly more chicory goes to faraway destinations these days, where more is paid for quality, but the prices are also under more pressure when there are more supplied, but it isn't as bad as on the domestic market."
For more information:Gerwin de Vries
Witlofkwekerij LOF.
Pilotenweg 28/1
8311 PL Espel
Tel. +31 (0)527 271 375
Fax. +31 (0)527 271 032
gerwin@witlofkwekerijlof.nl
www.witlofkwekerijlof.nl