Grapes from all the major growing regions in the Mediterranean region are currently dominating the German wholesale markets. Although the goods are available in abundance, the market has been experiencing very low demand since the beginning of the season, says Hüseyin Gürbüz, owner of Efendi Fruchthandels LLC.
At the colorful wholesale market stall of Efendi Fruchthandels
The Munich-based wholesaler sources his goods from both Italy and Turkey and offers the fresh produce at the wholesale market stall. "We started this year quite late or into the Turkish season on August 20. At present, however, the seedless Sultana grapes from local production are available in pleasing quantities, as are the predominantly nucleated varieties from Italy. All in all the grape market is very quiet," says the dealer, who has been operating his own pick-up station for 6 years and has been active in the Munich wholesale market for a total of 24 years.
He adds: "The Turkish grapes have become more expensive due to the difficult economic and political situation and the increased fuel costs." Currently, the Turkish grapes are priced between 1.80-2.00 € / kg. The Italian grapes are usually a bit more expensive. "I have not been stocking stored grapes from Turkey for several years, so by the middle of November the Turkish campaign is usually over."
Grapes are a seasonal hit in the sales of Mr. Gürbüz. He imports the Turkish grapes himself and offers them to his pick-up customers under the own brand Efendi.
Despite the difficult season of this year, Turkish grapes are increasingly popular. Especially among the younger generation, the seedless fruits have taken a high priority, he says. "My clients invariably confirm that children love the Turkish grapes, not only because they contain no seeds, but also because of their sweet taste." Personally, I regard the Sultana varieties as the original grapes without crossing or modifying."
Figs & dates
Apart from grapes, different vegetable crops and sweet fruits form the core competence of Efendi Fruchthandels. "We have been offering figs from Italy and Turkey since August, and the demand for them is rather low as well, but sales of dates are very good: In August, I was able to sell nice quantities of Medjoul dates from Kalahari but I would like to purchase larger quantities through a reliable partner," he concludes.
For more information:
Efendi Fruchthandels GmbH
Inh. Hüseyin Gürbüz
Halle 3, Stand 61–63
Tel:+49 89 767569790
info@efendifrucht.de