The radish market has been very varied. Within a few days the price can fluctuate hugely. This is mainly due to the fact that the supply is high, but the demand goes up and down. This is according to Marcel van Assche of Gromatco. Around fourteen days ago he was still expecting this to be a good summer for the radish. Now, however, he isn't so sure.
Up and down
"The difference can be huge. In a week the price can go from 9 to 45 cents and the week after that we're back where we started. It isn't really manageable," he concludes. "The quality was a bit less last week due to the weather. There were more pinkish radishes than red. Not everyone appreciated it."
Difference per grower
He believes the situation differs by grower. "If you have a high production on days that it's going well, you have a good average price. If you have slightly more during bad days, it's disappointing. When I look at my own company, I'd say the situation is 'reasonable' at the moment, but no better than that."
The consumption should be high during this time of the year. "But it was slightly less during July last year too. The price started to decrease from the start of the holiday. We can't predict what will happen over the next while. What is certain is a high production. We hope the trade will continue to demand." Marcel van Assche has been active in the radish cultivation with his wife since 2010. The area is one hectare under glass. The grower supplies to Veiling BelOrta all year round.