OP Armonia started the early nectarine campaign on 3rd May 2017, 10 days earlier than usual due to early ripening and to the fact that new, very early varieties started production. We are talking about the Flariba green-house variety, with grade B mass and a sugar level above 10° Brix.
The harvesting of cherries has also started, 8 days earlier than usual and with the first shipments carried out on 29th April 2017.
Sales director Marco Eleuteri explains: "we expect to harvest around 1,000 tons of peaches and nectarines in May (700 tons of nectarines, 200 tons of Saturn peaches and 100 tons of peaches), i.e. a 10-15% increase compared to the previous year. We are expecting 6,500 tons in total (3,000 tons of nectarines, 2,000 tons of Saturn peaches and 1,500 tons of peaches)."
"In May, our produce will be distributed mainly on the domestic market. It's premium-quality produce that sells very well. Exports (central Europe, mainly Germany) should start in early June."
Despite the early availability, sales haven't been great due to the low temperatures between late April and early May, which of course affected consumption.
"Quotations are definitely lower than those we were used to - well below €5 for bigger nectarines and €10 for cherries."
"As soon as the weather changes, consumption will resume. Fruit is in fact very good on average, I believe this is one of the best campaigns of the past few years. Even early varieties such as Flariba have a pleasant flavour and sugar content. It will be just a matter of days...and weather!"
DolceNettarina premium range available from mid-May
Until 10th-12th May, OP Armonia nectarines will be placed in the classic single-layer cells, especially considering the significant quantities of sub-acid nectarines (protected cultivation) expected staring from 12th-13th May.
The DolceNettarina premium range (sub-acid nectariens) will become available from mid-May, both in cells and four-fruit trays.
"In addition, at the end of the month, we will introduce a new 1.5 kg traditional fruit basket that was already a hit with clementines and kiwis."
"In addition, at the end of the month, we will introduce a new 1.5 kg traditional fruit basket that was already a hit with clementines and kiwis."
Cherries
According to the sales director, the consumption of early cherries has also been affected by the cooler temperatures in late April-early May.
"But things should improve over the next few days. We expect to harvest 600 tons, which will be processed by our partner Puglia Fresh in Biscelgie. Volumes are 40% higher than the previous year, but we are rather worried about the Ferrovia variety, as it may have been affected by the latest cold front."
Contacts:
Marco Eleuteri - Sales director
Email: marco.eleuteri@aoparmonia.it
OP Armonia
Via Strada Privata Frigotirrena, 1
84091 Battipaglia (SA)
Tel.: (+39) 0828 316273
Fax: (+39) 0828 316234
Email: info@aoparmonia.it
Web: www.aoparmonia.it