Although pineapple volumes aren't particularly high, sales are traditionally somewhat decreased during this period. According to Fred Rennen, commercial manager at Staay-Hispa, the most important cause is the ample supply of local European fruit in the market. "We are not entirely dissatisfied. As far as we're concerned though, prices could be a bit higher."
According to Fred, Costa Rica doesn't have a lot of fruit available. "The pineapple hasn't had a strong natural flowering this year. There are some effects, but they aren't too strong." He expects the market situation to stabilize in the coming weeks. "Despite the abundance of European summer fruit, retailers are still including pineapple, and there are still quite a few promotions going on. A little less pineapple is expected to enter the market in the coming weeks."
The importer has been promoting crownless pineapple for years. "Demand from the processing industry for crownless pineapple is increasing. In retail, pineapples with crown are still preferred. It's the same with carrots. The consumer still expects tops with those", Fred says.
Dulce
With SFG Dulce S.A. in San Jose (Costa Rica), the Staay Food Group has its own location for regional production of melons, mangoes and pineapple in Central America, and the export of those to both Europe and the United States. "The Dulce brand is property of the Staay Food Group, and in the near future we will carry this brand even more strongly in pineapples", Fred concludes.
For more information:Staay Hispa B.V.
Handelscentrum ZHZ
2991 LD Barendrecht
T +31 (0)180 679 117
F +31 (0)180 679 101
fred.rennen@staay-hispa.nl
www.staay-hispa.nl