On Friday night, the Mabru Early Market in Brussels, Belgium, opened its doors to the public. According to the market's Director, Laurent Nys, this was a successful event. More than 5,000 people visited this early market. Each edition focuses on a specific country. Two years ago, it was Portugal; this year, it was Colombia. Fifteen producers from this Latin American country displayed their goods. These included bananas, pineapples, and other exotic fruits. But there were also wares like coffee, flowers, and rum.
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Alco Kappé (All Nuts), Alexander Van Orshaegen (Group ADW), and Marlayne Kappé (All Nuts).
At the Bollaerts Primeurs trading company, the focus was on products from Cibel, Cebon, and All Nuts. A wide range of citrus products was set up at Cibel's popular little cart.
Fruit Vandepoel has been in the spotlight in the last few weeks. It was reported that Guy Claessens and Paul Ponnet had taken over this company. "For now, nothing about the business is going to change," says Wim Vandepoel.
"But, three years ago, my wife and I were looking for successors. We came across Guy and Paul. Clients will still be to find me in Brussels, as usual, for some time to come."
Wim Vandepoel.
Fruit Vandepoel's brand new owners: Paul Ponnet and Guy Claessens.
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Although the lights went out for a while, there was a pleasant atmosphere at the BelOrta team's stand. This auction house took a wide assortment of products along to put on display. They, however, put a lot of emphasis on the Migo variety of pear.
The BelOrta team, still raring to go.
Frank Valckenier with his children.
According to Franck Valckenier, there were more visitors than buyers. He is from the company of the same name. "This weekend was care-free Sunday. This means cities were not accessible by car. It was also difficult for market vendors to get into the city. So, many clients decided to not go to market on Sunday."
Ludger Nollet of Nollet Fruit.
Ludger Nollet of Nollet Fruit's sales continued as usual. But, between helping clients, he chatted to visitors. A large variety of apples and pears were nicely presented. "The top fruit market is still relatively quiet. However, I expect this to pick up soon. Apples and pears need cooler weather. So, come along, cold weather."
Ton Theunissen in front of Zespri's attractive stand.
The Motrac Linde men: Rudy Kottas, Luc Doumen, and Cedric Dumont.
Stefan Bosmans and Yannick of Michel Fruit.
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