The top fruit market is under some pressure at the moment. "But it always is at the beginning of the season. Everyone is picking and the growers are offering all the product. The season also started quite early and it isn't apple weather. We need cooler weather for a good apple consumption," says Zweer van Aalsburg of Fruitmasters. "The nights are also a little too warm for the colouration of Jonagold."
The price level of the Elstar is around 35-40 cents for the 65's and 70's and Prestige (75) is being sold for 45-50 cents. "A bit of money is paid for better qualities, but it's not enough," concludes Zweer. "In this period we are really on the domestic market. This is a normal phenomenon at this time of year. Last year there was export to Germany, but they have a large apple harvest of their own and are self sufficient with it."
The price of the Conference pear is between 30 and 35 cents for the 55 sorting and between 35 and 40 cents for the 65's. "There is still some unrest in the market. The cells that are full now, that the Jonagold have to go in, are coming loose. Sorting is in full swing, the containers have to be emptied and the harvesting money has to be paid. When the cells are full, we will be able to make up the balance. In mid October the harvest will be done and I expect some more rest and stability in the market."
For more information:
Zweer van Aalsburg
Fruitmasters
Deilseweg 7
Postbus 222
4190 CE Geldermalsen
Tel: 0031 345 578 808
www.fruitmastersholland.nl