Canadian cherries have a unique window of supply. “We are known for late cherries as our production peaks in August,” says Andre Bailey with Global Fruit. “Although Europe is an important market for Canadian cherries, our focus has been more heavily on Asia in the past few years. “Two out of the last four years, Europe had later fruit than we did, significantly reducing our export window of opportunity. Honestly, there are good cherries in the EU market and our exports will always hinge on the timing of the EU crop, Bailey shared.”
New opportunities
However, the new trade agreement between the EU and Canada (CETA), offers more opportunities for exporting to Europe. It also makes Canada’s cherries more cost effective. The agreement will provide access to new regions such as Scandinavia.
The importance of the European market is signified by the fact that Global Fruit has hired a dedicated European sales person. Marja Albers recently started out of the company’s Creston, BC office and is responsible for growing Global Fruit’s cherry business in Europe. For its exports to the EU, Global Fruit has traditionally been most focused on the Netherlands, the UK, Germany, France and Spain. “We are excited to move into new countries and regions as well. These include Portugal, Turkey, Scandinavia and Eastern Europe. We will be able to help extending the Eastern European consumption season.”
Marja Albers, responsible for Global Fruit's cherry sales to Europe
Although harvest of Canadian cherries is still far out, Bailey is happy with what he is seeing in the orchards. “We have reduced the crop load on the trees and hope it will result in larger size cherries this year,” he said. “In addition, we have a significant number of young orchards coming into full maturity.” Global Fruit is expecting its first year of commercial production for Rainier Blush cherries and is excited to offer them to its partners around the world.
Fruit Logistica Berlin
For the first time in its history, Global Fruit will be exhibiting at Fruit Logistica in Berlin. “It is the best show in the entire world,” mentioned Bailey. “Anyone in fruit should be going there. We would love to meet as many people as we can.”
Please stop by booth C-06 in Hall 26 to meet the team of Global Fruit.
For more information:
Andre Bailey
Global Fruit
Tel: (+1) 250-428-2320