Ukrainian apple producer hopes to replace EU competitors
The company entered the Swedish market 3 months ago. Branded under the name 'Organiks', the apples are sent in 1 layer boxes for the premium quality segment and Maxim said that they have had nothing but good feedback from their buyers. One to two trucks are being sent weekly to the supermarkets through distributors. Vinaigrette is currently sending 5 varieties to Sweden; Gala Royal, Golden Delicious, Red Prince, Jonagold and Red Delicious.
After 2 years of negotiations, the company has also started to send their Gala apples to ASDA in the UK, who have also been showing interest for Golden Delicious and Granny Smith.
"It took us around 2 months to prepare the first batch for export because of the very specific requirements. The apples also needed to be 60-65 mm size with 50% colour, packaged in 330kg wooden bins. It always takes a bit in the beginning, but we are gaining experience and although we are still sending supplies this year, we have our focus on the next 2-3 season (2019-2020)," Maxim said.
The apples from Vinaigrette are being sold under ASDA's 'Grower Select' brand in 4 and 6 piece bags. Their apples can also be found in wholesale markets and small retailers in the UK under the brand 'Luka'.
"One of our goals in the future is to be able to produce finished goods, such as the 4 and 6 piece bags, directly from our facility. We still have a lot of work to do before we are ready to do that, but we think that upcoming exhibitions like Fruit Logistica 2018 and Gulfood 2018, will help us have a better understanding of what our next step should be to continue our rapid expansion."
For more information:
Maxim Kulik
Vinaigrette Ltd
Tel: +380999100251
trebyan@post.cz
www.vinigrette.com