"At the moment, we are in the middle of winter, which means that in the coming months we will end our apple season. There are still some amounts in the chambers that will be sold until October, which will remain mainly in Latin America. In export markets such as Europe and the United States, national production has already begun. Predictions suggest that Europe will have 21% less apples this year, which might turn into a positive situation for Chilean apple exports next season", explains Diego Romero of El Álamo Foods in Chile.
El Álamo Foods is a young company that, nevertheless, forms part of the Fósforos Group, which already has 104 years of existence. The parent company is active in the timber and forestry sector, but in the past has experimented with fruit production. However, the wine sector has proven to be more profitable, reason which it did not start producing blueberries until 2008. In 2010 it also began to produce apples and now works on 100 hectares of different varieties. "Our business model is to work responsibly and produce responsible products. That is why our fields are certified by the Rainforest Alliance, both in the timber and forestry division, as well the fruit sector. Being 100% certified is very important to us because it shows our spirit".
Blueberries
"We have 55 hectares of blueberry production. At present, we are replacing and changing the varieties on the existing surface", says Diego. "In addition, we are also increasing our acreage, as we are investing in fields located in areas where the blueberry season begins earlier. Right now we are in the middle, which means that the main crop starts at week 51 and lasts until week 1. Thanks to the purchase of land closer to the sea, we can extend our season and start on week 39. This will help stabilize prices throughout the season and offer longer and improved programs".
The company has recently begun to produce cherries and will have commercial volumes in a few years. "Chile has been lucky in its cherry production window, because we can export to China during its New Year. In China, it is common to buy cherries as a gift", Diego explains.
China
The Asian giant is a major export market for El Álamo Foods. "We are producers, packers and exporters, and we only work with our own production. Quality is the most important aspect, because we believe that it is important to confer uniformity to a fruit's quality. Our goal is to harmonize production to customer demands".
Diego adds that, much effort is invested in production to achieve such high quality and uniformity. "That is why China is our main market, especially for individuals that are willing to pay for high-end products. When this type of effort is made it is because the best market is being sought. One in which recognition can be obtained, and that is willing to pay a higher price for a higher quality. China is not only interesting because it is an immense market, but also because of its culture. Consumers are willing to pay higher prices for fruits like cherries and blueberries because they are considered as gifts".
Exports
Europe, such as the Netherlands and the United Kingdom, as well as the United States are export destinations. Blueberries are sold under the Blue Gems brand. However, a second brand has been developed for the Asian market, which is El Álamo.
"We have a precise prediction system that shows us how the season will progress in terms of quality and volumes. Our commercial volumes are based on this information. Usually, we try to put as much product as possible into Asia directly through importers, but also through service providers. In Europe, service providers help us supply supermarkets. The company is growing, so we have to be present in all the World's regions", concludes Diego.
More information:
Diego Romero
El Álamo Foods
Chile
T: +56227076200
E: Diego@eaf.cl