Plum supply substantially lower, prices changeable

Just as last year, supply of Dutch plums are at a low level. “Yields vary greatly per region, but some cultivators only have half a harvest,” says Rick Koppen of The Greenery. “Last year we were in a similar situation, but prices remained structurally stable. This year we are seeing much more volatility, and we have to work hard to realise good prices.”

Plum sales for The Greenery are mainly focused on the domestic market. Before the start of this week, a small slump in supply was expected. “Traditionally, we have a gap between plum strains Jubileum and Reine Victoria. That is why Reine Victoria’s season started slightly earlier, but supply is still limited,” Koppen explains. He expects prices to reach a structurally higher level than last year. “That is necessary, because half a harvest really needs double prices.”

According to Koppen the popularity of plums could still use an impulse. “We could definitely gain more in that aspect. We can tell by, for example, our Lazoet concept, an umbrella-name for several blue-coloured strains that look alike and are similar in flavour. This concept is extremely well-received by retail, resulting in much stabler prices. We are now orienting ourselves on the possibilities to extend the Lazoet plum season by, for example, cultivation in France or additional supply from Poland.”