Grape tomatoes have always been high in demand within the Canadian market and are an affordable alternative for low-income families. “Grape tomatoes come in many different sized packages,” states Amicone, “If a 2lb clamshell is unaffordable at the moment, then there is also the 1lb or 10oz containers available. There are also field pack grape tomatoes which have similar health benefits and are very affordable during the summer months.”
The tomato market has experienced lower than average prices this year due to the favourable growing conditions exhibited throughout Canada. The moderate summer has provided excellent blossoming conditions for greenhouse, field and garden tomatoes. “The great production has caused a flooded supply on the market. Overall production is good, but pricing is down. Tomatoes and cucumbers are showing a stronger market now, but peppers are still low.”
Canadian Greenhouse Tomatoes compete with the United States and Mexico within the market. Holland and Spain’s produce has an effect on pricing; however Ontario tomatoes do not directly compete with them. “We like to push locally grown programs. We have not ventured too heavily into the Mexico region with hopes to expand our Leamington acreage and keep Canadian product on a more year round basis.”
AMCO Group recently added two acres to their production for the use of research and development. The crops have not been affected by anything out of the ordinary, but the same threats such as high supply, weather and pests remain. “We are always trying to improve methods to deal with disease and pests. The more we can prevent them from occurring the less we need to treat the plant which is always a good thing.”
AMCO Group is enthusiastic about the future of the Ontario tomato market and is already anticipating next season. “We have picked up some significant business and we want to work closely with each account to offer new and innovative ideas, such as locally grown Papaya, to keep retailers and consumers interested in our items and satisfied with the quality.”
For more information please contact:
Mitchell Amicone
AMCO Group
Tel: 1 888 900 2222
Fax: 519 326 6130
fausto@amcogroup.biz
http://www.amcogroup.biz/home