"Price of red onion increasing, against declining trend of the yellow"

Whereas the market for yellow onions is dealing with the necessary challenges with a huge European production and the export to West Africa traditionally declining, the market for red onions is heading up an upward line. "There was a clear bottom price in the market for red onion from the harvesting period until January, but at the moment the price is rising," says Arie van Baalen of River Onions.

River Onions is trying to define itself in the area of specialities, such as red onions, garlic and shallots. "There is almost an oversupply of yellow onions, there is also a large supply of sorters and exporters. It's easier to define yourself with specialities such as red onions. But you do have to have a good sales plan. You can always sell yellow onions somewhere, but you need a good plan for the red ones. Once you have that sorted, you can make some money," says Arie. "The quality of the onions this season is much better than in previous years, both for red and yellow."

"We are currently getting a price of around 25 cents for the packaged red onions (60/80 sorting). The demand for red onions is good and the market has a good balance. It's traditionally more difficult to sell the smaller sortings of red onions. But because we grow ourselves, we can easily aim for growing coarser parties. It is also very important to have a good spread in sales between the retailers and the wholesale markets. We have a reasonable amount of clientèle on the British wholesale markets with companies who supply straight to restaurants. Companies like this buy a relatively high amount of red onions."

"Due to the collaboration with other domestic and foreign growers and by sharing knowledge and continuous innovation, River Onions can offer a contemporary quality assortment of onions, shallots and garlic. This week we will be present at the Fruit Logistica in Berlin (hall 3.2, stall D-21), and would be happy to tell you more about our activities," concludes Arie.

For more information:
Arie van Baalen
River Onions
Verdrietweg 1
5306 HB Brakel
Mob: 0031 (0)653469881
arie@river-onions.nl
New website: www.river-onions.nl