By the end of last week, watermelon sales prices seemed to be heading toward a level of about EUR0,75/0,80. Since then, the market has fallen somewhat to a level of around EUR0,65/0,70.
"Last year, it was a matter of handing them out. That was thanks to the high temperatures. We have had hardly any days reach 30 degrees this year. Every added degree means more sales or, at least, a higher price." says Pieter de Ruiter of the Dutch company, 4Fruit Company.
Currently, watermelons are still being supplied to this company mainly from Almeria, Spain. The latest shipments are from there. There is also product available from Morocco and Israel. Greece is at the point of starting up too.
"We will switch to the supply from Murcia, Spain, at the end of this week. However, the volumes are not there yet. Next week, there will be more trade available from Murcia again. But if the temperature rises, as indicated, and not too much is loaded, better prices may lie ahead," says Pieter.
The prices for the remaining melon types are very decent. "There are hardly any cantaloupes. Those that are there are selling for EUR8-9. Galia sales are also going very well. The latest of these melons from Almeria are going for EUR6/6,50 for good sizes," Paul continues.
"Yellow melon prices are at around EUR11/12 for 12kg. Piel de Sapos are being sold for EUR8/8,50. On the whole, it is all good trade. Except for watermelons - these should have a little extra added to their price."
Sales of mini watermelons, especially the seedless kind, are booming. This is according to the importer. "Our shipper, Anecoop, planted more of these this year. But those volumes are easily sold every day. We have had these watermelons in our assortment for years now. It is, however, getting easier to sell them every year."
"Supermarkets are simply very resistant to cutting watermelons up into pieces. People are, therefore, happy to rather grab a small melon. It is also a tasty melon with a thin skin. These melons, thus, fulfill a need," concludes Pieter.
For more information:
Pieter de Ruiter
4 Fruit Company
30 Handelsweg
2988 DB Ridderkerk, NL
Tel: +31 (0) 180 641 902
pr@4fc.nl
www.4fruitcompany.nl