“When you have smaller sizes you need more consumers to buy apples,” said Blue Whale's Marc Peyres. Because consumers typically consume apples by the number of apples rather than by weight, smaller sizes mean less tonnage could be sold this year. So while the same number of apples are sold, less fruit, as measured by weight, is actually being bought by consumers.
“When we look at total volume, it will be a difficult season,” said Peyres. “But it might seem that way because last year was much easier.” Despite having trouble moving tonnage, he added that the season has been a positive one when it comes to pricing. While he found it hard to top last year's impressive sales, Peyres believes this season will top 2011's.
“Prices are quite stable, so while some varieties are going up in price, average prices are okay so far,” said Peyres. Granny, Fuji, Pink Lady and Gala apples are all doing well, in terms of prices, noted Peyres, but we need more market to move the total volume.
“The problem we have with consumption has to do with kilos, not with number of apples sold,” said Peyres. “The market is very stable, so it's not a question of price, it's a question of size.”
Kiwi
On the other hand, he predicted a kiwi season with few obstacles.“There wasn't as much fruit from Chile in November and December, because they finished early, and it's likely they'll be a little late for the start of next year's season,” said Peyres, “and that's the case for all markets, not just for Europe.” That means French exporters will have less competition in the market.
“We anticipate a good balance between supply and demand, and since the crop is not so big, it will be easy to have a good market for kiwis,” said Peyres. “I think this could be one of the best seasons for kiwis we've had in the last ten years.”
For more information:
Marc Peyres
Blue Whale
Tel +33 5.63.21.56.56
Email: Marc@blue-whale.com
www.blue-whale.com