Joël Boyer and Jean-Marc Boyer, the sons of the founding father Claude Boyer
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“Now we have growers in both Martinique and Guadalupe, who are in production between February and April. We also have producers in Senegal, Morocco and Spain to ensure year round supply of quality melons, marketed under both the Philibon and Flamboyant brands” explains Jean-Marc Boyer.
Currently 60% of Philibon’s melons are for the French market and another 40% are intended for export. “We produce a typical Charentais melon for the French market in terms of both taste and appearance; this variety, is very sensitive to long shipments, so all exports are made by air,” says Catherine Guitard.
The laserprinter adds Philibon on the melon
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The Philibon brand is renowned for its premium quality, not only when it comes to melons, but also other fruits and exotics. Catherine affirms that “our products are mostly intended for specialised stores in France, like Grand Frais, as well as large overseas retailers, such as Marks & Spencer or Delhaize, who look for both quality and taste.”
At the moment, 90% of Philibon’s melons are high quality Charentais, although in response to some of its customers’ demands, the company is currently conducting tests to find out if its range could be expanded with other varieties, including Galia and yellow melons.
Jean-Marc says that in the summer season, when there is sunshine and hot weather, melons are very popular in France. “In the winter season, however, they are more of a special item. Consumers then pay higher prices, but they know they are purchasing a quality product. We strive to maintain the same standards all year round.”
Mixed pallet of plums and the Chasselas table grapes
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In terms of future plans, the company aims to develop its range by continuing to look for quality fruit and exotics worthy of the Philibon label. “We already work with Kent mangoes from Peru and Brazil and Queen Victoria pineapples from Reunion Island, which are the best in the world. Our focus is on finding good varieties, good partners and good origins for all times of the year,” concludes Jean-Marc.
For more information:
Jean-Marc Boyer
Boyer
Tel: +33 607 372 682
jeanmarcboyer@philibon.com
philibon-moissac@wanadoo.fr
www.philibon.com