Mountain apples
"We have apples of the Golden, Fuji, Red Chief and Royal Gala varieties, as well as Rocha and Conference pears. We are also exporting some chestnuts, which are common in our production area," explains Carlos Calvão, of Frutas Bela, adding that their apples are special because they are grown in the mountains, at an altitude of between 500 and 800 metres, which gives them a characteristic flavour and makes them very juicy.
The 2016 season is coming to an end, and the producer believes that it has been a reasonable year; one with a low production, but with stable prices and a demand that keeps growing year after year. "We export to South America and Canada, and by 2017 we want to further increase our exports and open up new markets, such as Saudi Arabia and Dubai. We want to focus on red apples (Red Chief and Royal Gala) and export more chestnuts," affirms Calvão.
Specialised professionals
Frutas Bela was founded in 1998 and is increasingly committed to the export of apples and pears from Portugal. In addition to its own production, it collaborates with other growers who supply their fruit exclusively to the company, and its network of producers is formed by professionals who are specialised in growing excellent fruits. To make sure the requirements of its customers are fulfilled, the company has very high quality standards and oversees their enforcement. Moreover, it owns two 1,000 m² warehouses and a third new one with a total of 3,600 m², which is fully equipped with the most modern refrigeration technology.
More information: Carlos Calvão
Frutas Bela
Rua das Novas Tecnologias, Parque Empresarial Outeiro Seco, 5400-673 Chaves, Portugal
Tel.: +351 938549738
www.frutasbela.com