Nearly all domestic soft fruit is already on the market, it is just the blueberries that will arrive later. Frank Valckenier from Brussels, Belgium, has the complete Belgian soft fruit assortment and is still waiting for blueberries. “I have been shopping around a bit, but it will be about two weeks before they enter the market. We are currently still working with Spanish ones.”
Blueberries
Valckenier indicates that they cannot complain about the Spanish season. “Spanish blueberries have not been overly expensive, prices were fairly average. They were sold between about 1.20 and 1.50, and this is also the reason sales went fairly well. Today prices were at 1.60.” The trader notices that the sales of soft fruit rises every winter. “Blueberries, raspberries and blackberries are all on the rise. I therefore think it is important to always buy good quality, and I am always looking for the best. Our customers know that as well.” Valckenier is happy with the month of May, regarding sales. “This has been a good month for the trade in soft fruit.”
Raspberries
Belgian raspberries are doing well. “We have had them for over two weeks now, and up to now prices have been good. They were around three Euro in the beginning, and there was even a peak of 3.50 around Mother’s Day. The day price is currently 2.50 and that is fine for the time of year.” Valckenier indicates that Spanish raspberries can sometimes still be found on the market. “I have stopped those now. The difference in price between Spanish and Belgian raspberries is not all that big now, in any case.”For more information:
Valckenier BVBA
Frank Valckenier
Kerkhofstraat 10
1760. Roosdaal-Pamel
Tel: +32 475-682125
Magazijn Mabru
Quai des Usines 22-23 Halle E
Tel: +32- (0)2 241 50 54
www.mabru.be