The situation on the apple market can currently be called unique. “In other years there’s always been a production area with less production, but something is happening throughout Europe now. The harvest is incredibly small, and the season of apple varieties such as Red Boskoop, Elstar, Comice, but also Gieser-Wildeman will be over quickly. It will be a calm summer in top fruit,” says Aart Blom of Fruit Partners Blom from Deil, the Netherlands.
“The prices of apples have quickly risen because of this, and despite high prices in the Netherlands, there have been quite a number of supermarket promotions. Apparently retailers will settle for smaller margins,” Aart continues. “It has all become a bit calmer now, which might also be a result of the emphasis on citrus promotions in supermarkets. But perhaps this is good for the apples, because otherwise we’d run out even sooner. I’m curious what the spring will mean for overseas apple supplies.”
“Pear prices are fairly stable. During the harvesting so much was happening on the apple market, that more was given for pears as well, but that’s not quite as positive now. The sugar content and flavour are good in general, but quality and shelf life require some more attention. I would advise growers to continue clearing. There’s demand for pears throughout Europe.”
For more information:
Fruitpartners Blom
Hooiweg 16a
4158 LE Deil, the Netherlands
Tel: +31 (0)345 651 311
Aart3@fruitpartnersblom.nl
www.fruitpartnersblom.nl