"Italy: "There were some negative aspects in the apple campaign, but I'm still optimistic"

"The apple campaign was affected by overproduction, the Russian ban and fluctuations due to conflict in North Africa. Quality, consumption and stocks were good, but we cannot say we are satisfied with average prices, which did not cover costs," explains Josef Wielander, VI.P director.

Josef Wielander, VI.P director.

"We must say though, that the past ten years have been good and that the future does not look so bad."

Stocks seem to be running out quickly all over Europe, leading to increased market prices and better conditions for the next harvesting campaign. "It is still too early to be sure things will go well though. Harvesting starts in September and summer fruit consumption and the weather can still affect stocks."

Prognosfruit 2015
This year's edition of the Prognosfruit will take place in Merano between 5th and 7th August. During the conference, the expectations for the top fruit productive season will be published.

"It is an honour to be chosen to host the event. For us, it is an opportunity to show our orchards, processing facilities and landscapes to the rest of the apple sector."

A series of guided tours and a gala dinner were organised for the occasion. "We want to make all participants happy!"

As regards the forecast, the director says that "even though not all countries have registers like the ones in Western Europe, usually figures are quite precise. The most important aspect of the conference is actually the psychological aspect that the forecasts have on the campaign."

In the regional pavilion at EXPO
Apples from Alto Adige will be at the EXPO's regional pavilion. "But there are no specific initiatives involving apples alone," concludes Josef Wielander.

Contacts:
VI.P Coop Soc. Agricola
Via Centrale 1/c
39021 Laces (BZ)
Web: www.vip.coop

Author: Rossella Gigli
Copyright: www.freshplaza.it