Zaltbommel auction sees future in Kwanza

In 2012 Zaltbommel introduced the Kwanza variety. Approximately 90% of the supply of raspberries that are delivered to Zaltbommel are of the Kwanza variety and are sold under the same name. Hans van Dodewaard says that they are very pleased with this variety so far. "The market situation is currently very good. In terms of supply there is a bit of a dip. The greenhouse season is over and the growers are now busy, for two weeks already, with the protected cultivation. We have to be careful with this warm weather. The raspberries are very sensitive to the sun. This is when we need the knowledge of the growers the most."

Price difference
According to Hans prices are really high and the demand is excellent. "A few weeks ago it was not as good but now we are getting between 2 and 2.70 Euro for 150 grams. That is 15/16 Euro per kilo. A few weeks ago the price for 150 grams was less than one Euro. The price difference mainly has to do with the fact that the volume is smaller now." Kwanza is sorted by size by the growers themselves. "We have extra large, large, and medium. It is obvious that there is a preference for the largest size."

Knowledge and experience
Kwanza stores well. "If raspberries are in demand it is clear that there is a preference for Kwanza. The taste is great." Zaltbommel is not the only supplier of Kwanza. "This variety is grown in other European countries as well. Three years ago grower Geert de Weert introduced this new variety and he also distributed it." The cultivation is quite intensive and specific. "Kwanza growers meet up regularly to share knowledge and experience with each other. They are closely supervised by Horti Nova using samples. They ensure that the quality stays high and that it can be improved where necessary. This means that we are constantly working on perfecting our product."

Hans sees a good future for Kwanza. "We just need to watch out that the volume does not grow too fast. We also have competition from other providers that have varieties that look like Kwanza. If we ensure that Kwanza continues to grow, we will have many good years to look forward to."

For more information:
Hans van Dodewaard
Veiling Zaltbommel
Stationsweg 28
5301 KH Zaltbommel
Tel: 0418-579911
Fax: 0418-579213
info@veiling-zaltbommel.nl
www.veiling-zaltbommel.nl