The first weeks of the banana market were characterised by limited availability and sky-high prices. From week 15, this situation, however, reversed itself. "Much sooner than I, and others, expected. The price of bananas (FOB) in Ecuador even dipped to around $4-5. Fortunately, with a price level of about $7, it has picked up again. The banana market has stabilised again", he says. "Recently, the availability of sea freight has also been quite a problem."
He counts himself lucky with his Ecuadorian GlobalGAP certified suppliers. "There were some quality issues in Costa Rica and Colombia. This is an added benefit of working with Ecuador. Our clients supply mostly retailers. Turkey is our largest sales market but we do also have clients in Europe. Unfortunately, the market situation has not been very healthy over the past week. Fridges everywhere are chock-a-block. I hope to make a good start with Turkish figs and cherries soon", continues Peter.
"We involve our source suppliers directly. This is in contrast to many importers. It means we can work with small margins. We have low costs. This is a prerequisite for getting high returns", he says. His company will soon move to another building in Augustapolder in the Dutch town of Barendrecht. "For me, it is not about the biggest turnover. Together with our clients, we can ensure a successful year."
For more information:
Peter de Jong
Erex International B.V.
46 Augustapolder
2992 SR Barendrecht
Tel: +31 (0) 180 726 940
info@erexint.com
www.erexint.com
Peter de Jong
Erex International B.V.
46 Augustapolder
2992 SR Barendrecht
Tel: +31 (0) 180 726 940
info@erexint.com
www.erexint.com