The British market is fundamental for table grapes on a European level and records the highest per capita consumption. It is one of the key countries together with Germany and Italy. It is therefore important for grape producers to enter it. FreshPlaza talked about it with Alfio and Francesco Messina from Agrimessina in Rutigliano (BA), one of The London Produce Show and Conference's golden sponsors.
Francesco Messina, Carlo Berardi and Alfio Messina.
"The UK market still presents its difficulties, as everybody wants to access it, so competition is fierce. Buyers and distribution chains aim at developing partnerships with their suppliers but, precisely due to this competition, the keep prices fixed all year round," explains Francesco Messina.
"Over the past few years, discount chains such as Lidl and Aldi have managed to acquire a large share of the market both in the general fresh produce and in the grapes segments. They make good purchases, imposing specifications and demanding to pay a competitive price. This makes it difficult for foreign producers, as competition is strong."
Alfio Messina adds that "the British market has always been oriented towards medium-high productions so as to induce consumers to repeat their purchases much more frequently. The UK has the highest purchase frequency on a European level. Shipping to this market therefore also means strict quality checks and the provision of suitable services." This is why the company also has a branch in the UK.
"Twenty years ago, the grapes market was in the hands of producers, while now there are also breeders involved. Positive examples include that of Pink Lady apples, as a brand was created not only for the single company but also for the single variety, thus creating a specific identity to create less confusion."
"The trend is going towards cultivars that are appealing, with uniform grade and color and an aromatic flavor."
"Packaging solutions vary a lot - the trend is going from smaller heat-sealed packs to sustainable eco-friendly solutions. However we still have not found a solution that suits all."
"At Agrimessina, we are trying to do something different - when it comes to e-commerce, we have come up with packaging that protects grapes but that, graphically, also represents a sort of gift package (see photo above) with elements from our land."
Contacts:
Agrimessina Srl
S.P. 240 per Conversano Km. 13
70018 Rutigliano (BA)
Tel.: +39 080 4761970
Website: www.agrimessina.it
Francesco Messina - sales manager
Cell.: +39 349 6887966
Email: francesco@agrimessina.com
Carlo Berardi - UK sales manager
Tel.: +44 7981004869
Email: carlo@agrimessina.com