Growing interest
She indicates that supermarkets are currently still opting exclusively for domestic apples and pears. "Retailers indicate that they're not yet ready to switch at the moment, because they're still feeling the domestic pressure." Looking at the market situation, she sees that the consumption is certainly there. "It's now not as bad as before Christmas, when the stocks were still so high, and with the past season still fresh in mind. Then, supermarkets were not even prepared to discuss programmes yet. If you look at the latest figures of stocks and consumption now, it's looking hopeful. Some amount of fruit has definitely been moved in recent weeks. The interest is now growing, and I think it's been a good decision to start the overseas season a little later and more slowly. Now we have to wait and see whether price levels will return to an acceptable level."
More regulated
Stefanie says that overseas exporters are also more careful this season. "They've also decided to send as much as possible to other markets now, such as the Middle East and Africa. In addition to South Africa, Chile has also started. The first coloured Chilean pears are on their way. I do expect those to perform reasonably well, seeing how Europe doesn't have a good coloured pear of its own available." The market situation will be different this year. "Significantly less overseas fruit will be available on the open market. Exporters are mainly focusing on supermarkets, and want to be sure that their fruit will land well. Hopefully, it will be a bit more regulated this season."
Always an opening
Stefanie feels the increased importance for domestic fruit. "Because of the Russian boycott, there have been various promotions, and that has had an effect. Still, at some point the switch will have to be made. There will always be an opening for overseas apples and pears." She notes that this season was dramatic for European producers. "And you're also seeing supermarkets going along with this and want to cooperate. Enormous pressure is put on the retailers there. On the other hand, they also want 'fresh' on shelves, and at some point they opt for overseas top fruit. They're looking for the 'middle ground' there. European producers are never happy about 'other' top fruit arriving, and now the situation is zooming in on that, of course. It changes every year. It's possible that Russia will be a regular buyer again next year. All in all, I hope everyone will find their way."
Russia risky
The harvests are looking great. "South Africa, Chile, Argentina and New Zealand have had a good growing season. There was a bit of frost in Chile, and there was talk of hail in South Africa, but that impact wasn't big in either situation, with apples and pears." She hasn't see the overseas countries sending more to Russia than previously. "Russia is now a risky market for many, and I don't see overseas exporters taking a lot of risk. In addition, European fruit is still found on the market in Russia..."
Capespan doesn't expect to import much less to Europe than last year. "Last year, for both pears and apples, we had already seen a seriously smaller volume across the entire season. I think the volumes will eventually follow along the same lines as last season. This is still a lot less than any normal year. It's still rather early to say how the market will evolve, but if consumption continues like this and the prices recover, it isn't looking bad."
For more information:
Stefanie De Puysseleir
Capespan Continent N.V.
Direct: +32 3 546 09 22
Fax: +32 3 546 09 09
www.capespan.com