The grape season is currently satisfactory. “Demand was slightly lower than expected after the holidays, but the market remains well-balanced due to the lower supply,” says Eddy Kreukniet from Exsa Europe. “Last week saw some rain in Orange River, and slightly less in Western Cape, and a number of cultivators had some losses because of that. This also causes a bit of a delay in the line now, because people cannot do anything for a few days.”
“All in all, the expected supply for the coming weeks will be lower than last year, and that is why we are not expecting any odd market situations. Promotions in shops are at the same level as last year. Prices along the entire line are similar or slightly higher than last year,” Eddy continues. South Africa is currently the largest supplier on the European market. “Namibia has already stopped loading, and supply from Peru is much lower than was expected by everybody. The Indian grape production is gradually starting. In the cultivation area of Nashik temperatures are about five to seven degrees Celsius colder than usual, which will be bad for sizes and brix levels. If that does not improve in the coming weeks, it could be worrisome.”
Qualitatively speaking, the grape season is going well, according to Eddy. “I do hear about some problems on the market, but we have personally been spared, fortunately.” Exsa Europe currently offers at least 22 grape varieties. “That is something we have been working on for a long time already within Exsa, and many other cultivators are now following our example. Many new strains are being introduced on the market, but customers, and consumers in particular, do not yet recognise them, and that is a challenge for the future, for we all want our grapes to be absorbed by the market.”
“We are reaching new markets with the new varieties, which is positive. For example, we introduced a speciality line with a number of European retailers, which is actually generating additional sales. This line includes the varieties that distinguish themselves by flavour in particular. It is positive to see repeat-purchases increasing as strains improve,” Eddy concludes.
For more information:
Eddy Kreukniet
Exsa Europe
Tel: +31 88 735 0003
Mob: +31 620 25 78 11
info@exsaeurope.com
www.exsaeurope.com