Italy: Ready to start with domestic grape supply

"The 2013 season of Egyptian grapes was satisfactory both in terms of quality and quantity. We were in fact able to sell 100% more than 2012. Unfortunately, the fact that big quantities of produce from India were available at the same time from big Dutch importers led to a decrease in prices," said the managers of Peviani.

Sophia grapes.

"The Italian market reacted rather well both in terms of volumes and in terms of prices, meaning that this product has finally entered in the assortment of domestic retailers. The socio-political situation in Egypt definitely did not help, especially towards the end of the season, though actually 95% of the programme was honoured nonetheless thanks to the professionalism and the effort of our suppliers."

Sophia (white) and Midnight Beauty (black) grapes on field.

The arrival of the domestic produce
The production of table grapes in Puglia is currently generally good and the ripening period is average. "At the end of week 29 (20th July) we started harvesting Victoria grapes. Quality is really good and we have waited until now to reach the perfect sugar content (Brix). In the meantime we have started harvesting the first white seedless (Sugraone) and black (Midnight Beauty) grapes."

Victoria and Midnight Beauty grapes.

This year, we will start harvesting another two varieties of seedless grapes and many other varieties are being observed in the experimental fields of the company. "The interest in seedless grapes is increasing, but it is important to rely on the right varieties to avoid expensive mistakes. We monitor all of the main production areas worldwide so we keep updated: our objective is to consider a wide time window, from mid July to the end of November with good quality seedless grapes."

Midnight and Superior S grapes.

Despite the fact that production costs in Italy are rather high, the company feels that new interesting markets are opening outside of Europe, which can help increasing the sales of good produce.

"Grapes with a particularly pleasant taste are quite successful, and we have introduced two varieties in the Premium range of a number of chains both in Italy and abroad. Italia and Red Globe grapes are also looking good, we just need the right weather. This is what we wish for and this is why we are committed."

Below: Sophia grapes.

Contacts:
Peviani
Via Lombardia, 7/9
27010 Siziano (PV) - Italy
Tel.: +39 (0)382 6785259
Fax: +39 (0)2 57760379
Andrea Peviani
Email: apeviani@peviani.it
Ettore Guzzi
Email: eguzzi@peviani.it
Web: www.peviani.it