Italy: Peach cultivation must be readjusted

The peach and nectarine market is doing rather well, although something more could have been expected due to the general drop in volumes, estimated at around 25%. What truly counts, however, is the fact that the segment can still be satisfactory if strategies are adjusted.

Ilenio Bastoni and Mirco Zanotti, director and president of Apofruit Italia respectively, explain that "the market has changed quite a lot over the past few years, and we're trying to change alongside it. For example, retail punnets with smaller fruits are not very profitable anymore. That is why we have been working on alternative solutions and focusing on organoleptic quality and high grades."

Presidente Zanotti illustrates how "As producers, we must be good at keeping costs down, although it's not easy. However, procedures such as pruning and thinning can be done mechanically, thus saving on labour. We must choose varieties that are suitable for the growing area and with good organoleptic qualities. In addition, we must pay attention to grades."

Some companies have detected the presence of the brown marmorated stink bug (Halyomorpha h.), although the damage is still limited. But one must not be caught unprepared and therefore various Apofruit members are adapting their anti-hail systems to contain the insects. 

Costs must be kept down here as well but, at the same time, it's also necessary to evolve. "We've been focusing on obtaining processing lines that are smaller and we're also increasing the number of peaches and nectarines processed directly. This means that, when the fruit arrives, it's graded and packaged straight away without passing through units first. This way the fruit is preserved from excessive damage, making it possible to package softer produce."

50% of Apofruit's peaches and nectarines are destined abroad. Quantities shipped to the Middle East have increased even more this year, also thanks to air shipping. "Finding profitable markets is essential and the produce must be excellent. Margins are high as special offers by retailers in some Arab countries mean selling at $8 per kg. If we consider that transport by air affects the price by $2 per kg, we can see the profit."

At Apofruit, organic production represents 30% of the turnover. Organic peaches and nectarines are sold at higher prices but yields are lower, although not much lower in the case of professional producers and favourable weather. 

Contacts:
Gruppo Apofruit
Viale della Cooperazione, 400
Cesena - Italy
Tel.: (+39) 0547 414111
Fax: (+39) 0547 414166
Web: www.apofruit.it