This was reported by Sergio Marcoaldi, agronomist and quality manager for C.O.P.A., Cooperativa Ortofrutticola Produttori Associati di Canino (Viterbo). "The fact that temperatures continue to be low during the night means the produce is growing slowly, so supply is below demand."
In addition, the harvesting cycle was characterised by the lack of rain and temperatures above average. At first, this warmed the soil making shoots appear but, should the drought continue, emergency irrigation will have to be carried out.
Sales trend
"Competition from Spain was strong until Easter, as prices were competitive and there was a lot of produce available. Of course the lower prices on the European market compared to those on the domestic market limited exports, creating a slight surplus and a drop in prices over the past few weeks," reports Giancarlo Benella, sales manager for the cooperative.
The drop in quantities available on both the domestic and European markets are pushing demand, so prices are destined to increase.
"Italian green asparagus are more and more popular abroad, especially in Germany, France, the Netherlands, Belgium, Ireland and England. In northern European countries such as Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway and Sweden, many operators recognise their superior quality. Of course prices remain a decisive component when choosing suppliers, but they are willing to spend more."
Consumption
Asparagus consumption is growing year after year, however, the penetration margin of green asparagus is still rather low, so there is room for improvement. At a European level, more and more people are preferring green asparagus to the white ones. "This means there is margin to grow."
Contacts:
Società Agricola C.O.P.A. soc. coop.
Via Pietro Nenni snc
01011 Canino (VT)
Tel.: +39 (0)761 438207
Fax: +39 (0)761 437458
Email: info@copacanino.it
Web: www.copacanino.it