Frambofruit is located in Loppem, West Flanders, and is known for its raspberry cultivation. Chris Loncke says that he started the company 19 years ago. The raspberry area is two hectares and besides this product he also grows brambles, gooseberries, blueberries and redcurrants. The latter are mainly intended for home sales.
Bulk product
"Raspberries are 90% of our turnover," says Loncke. "We have grown the same variety from April to November until 2013, Tulameen. It's perfect for export and very tasty. If you know your business, this is the best raspberry variety, but you have to do it right. The cultivation is hugely labour intensive, the product needs a lot of attention. As of 2014 we have been growing Tulameen from April until the beginning of September and have switched to Kwanza for supplying from September until the beginning of December. Kwanza is a nice raspberry in size and appearance, but is very sensitive to botrytis and spint." The raspberries are mostly sold to Special Fruit, through Veiling BelOrta. "We also do home sales, which double almost every year. A lot of people appreciate our good raspberries for an affordable price."
Production increase
He indicates that he has no extension plans. "This is enough for me. I can see that the total area has increased over the last few years. The production has increased massively in the Netherlands over the last two years. Sometimes when you see the average prices you hardly want to grow for them. Maybe Kwanza will overtake itself with the explosive expansion. "If you grow more (as is the case in all horticulture) than there is demand you will be in trouble with the price formation. I think people are making the unique raspberry into a bulk product and that's a shame."
He can only see the total production increase over the next few years. "The raspberry is unique, but the price isn't always. I grow raspberries because I like to do it, but I want to make my money with it. It is important to be definitive with quality. Customers aren't afraid to pay if they are getting something good for it."
For more information:
Frambofruit BVBA
Chris Loncke
Oude Ieperweg 26
8210 Loppem
GSM: 0477 95 80 21
[email protected]
www.frambofruit.be
For more information:
Frambofruit BVBA
Chris Loncke
Oude Ieperweg 26
8210 Loppem
GSM: 0477 95 80 21
[email protected]
www.frambofruit.be
