Premium prices for the first Spanish cherries

The Spanish cherry season has begun at Growers Packers Direct. This business, based in Venlo, focuses mainly on soft fruits, but has included cherries in it's selection for many years. "We see the 'cherry' as the sixth 'berry'. Cherries are being included in more and more of our clients small fruit selections,' says Robbert Leisink. They get their cherries exclusively from a grower in the Spanish region of Huesca. "The anticipation for the Spanish season is quite high. The frost damage in Belgium and the Netherlands will, undoubtedly, mean a longer Spanish season."

Photos are from earlier in the season

Premium prices are also being paid for the first cherries of the Spanish season. Prices for the 28+ size are at an unprecedented high of about 28 euro. The prices for the 24-26+ size is set at 23 euro per kg. "The season is starting slowly. We are only expecting larger volumes within a few weeks. The biggest demand is traditionally when the weather warms up and we should have Spanish cherries available until week 30", he added.

In addition to their Spanish supply, Growers Packers Direct also source cherries from France, Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany, Denmark and Bulgaria. The varieties include Burlat, Kordia and Regina. The cherries are delivered in a variety of punnets, boxes and sizes and can also be distributed in the innovative Body-and-Brains packaging. Growers Packers Direct distributes these cherries throughout Europe. Scandinavia and the Eastern Bloc countries are also important customers.

"Our Spanish suppliers cultivate for taste. This results in a nice, solid cherry. The weather conditions are perfect now, but with the Unitec-sorting machine, it is also possible to select the best cherries, even in less favourable weather conditions. Our onsite QC-team not only approves the product on quality, but also on the taste of the cherries. They inspect the cherries during harvesting, packaging, and loading. In order for the cherries to reach the consumer in optimal condition, we use our know-how and the correct cooling method to extend the cherries' shelf life, without compromising on taste,' Robbert explains.

For more information:
Robbert Leisink
The Grower Retail Connexion
Venrayseweg 106C
5928 RH Venlo
Tel: 088-8885788
Mob: 31-620337349
sales@growerspackers.com
www.growerspackers.com