FruitWorld Breda expects larger supply of Ethiopian strawberries

FruitWorld has been importing strawberries from Ethiopia for around five years. On Thursday the 18th of November the first volumes arrived, a few days later than last year. According to Wout van Es there is an increase compared to last year. "The area was extended and if the harvest is good and the weather goes our way, we expect larger volumes."

Until the end of March
The strawberries from Ethiopia are available until the end of March. Wout indicates that they are arriving at just the right time. "The Dutch season is almost finished and there are still few imported strawberries. The Ethiopian ones are nicely positioned between the Dutch strawberries and the strawberries from Egypt, Morocco and Israel."

High brix
The strawberries are of the Yoval variety. "They have a sparkling exterior and the quality is excellent. Customer value Yoval for its high brix level. The quality is comparable to Dutch and Belgian strawberries, but the advantage is that the price is more friendly. The price level is between Egypt and Holland. They are delivered fresh. The Strawberries are in our warehouse 2 hours after picking and we receive three to four deliveries per week. The fruit is supplied in packaging from the top segment 'Icons' and packaged in boxes of 10x250 grams."

FruitWorld imports straight from grower Ilan Tot. "The high area in Ehtiopia is more or less isolated and the climate is perfect for growing strawberries. There is very little bother from insects, diseases and other problems up there. In a normal season you hardly need crop protection."

For more information:
Wout van Es
Fruit World Breda
IABC 5102
4814 RN Breda
Tel.: (076) 523 15 60
Fax: (076) 520 63 14
www.fruitworld.nl