The first local Goldens arrived on the wholesale market in Cesena 10 days ago, so we can make a first very early assessment.
"The season did not start very well, and things are most definitely not the same as 2013: last year quality was really good, but this year both quality and sizes are poor. This was caused by the hailstorms and the abundant rain of the last few months. In 2013, prices started at €1/kg and then dropped, but it was easier to sell," explains Riccardo Bargellini, sales manager and co-owner of Gobbi Gino.
At the moment there are three local varieties on the market - Golden Delicious, Royal Gala and Stark. "Big grades (80-90) of Golden apples, especially Supremes, do sell well, we can reach €0.80/kg. The problem lies with smaller grades, which are difficult to sell even if the price drops to €0.55/0.60/kg. It is just as with peaches - big fruit always sells well, even in difficult years."
"Royal Gala were damaged by hail in April, so a lot of produce cannot be sold. Those who have good Royals manage to sell them at a minimum of €0.80/kg. We sell Royals (70-75) in crates. They look very good and yesterday we have managed to sell 100 12-13kg crates."
There are still very few Stark apples available. "They are sold at €0.80/kg because there is little produce available, otherwise the price would definitely be lower, especially considering the quality. Grades are in fact around 60-65."
A lot of hope is put into Fuji apples, which are usually very popular. It is a late variety though, so it is still not available. "It will arrive on the market after September 10th. It was not affected by hail, so I believe it will do pretty good this year. Another popular variety in our area is Imperatore del Lago, which is mainly eaten cooked. It is not as late as Fuji, but it will take another 10 days before it is ripe. Last year it sold at €0.70-0.80/kg."
Contacts:
Gobbi Gino snc
Via Dismano, 4001 - Pievesestina (FC)
c/o Mercato ortofrutticolo
Tel. e Fax: (+39) 0547 312041
Email: gobbiginosnc@virgilio.it
Web: www.gobbiginosnc.it