Dates are increasingly becoming a standard product within the German trade. The sweet exotics benefit from a growing preference for a healthy diet and the increasingly international cuisine in Germany and Europe. The fruits are particularly well received at Christmas time.
"For the most part, we sell Medjool dates from Israel. The Medjool is often called the 'royal date' because it simply has the best taste and is very soft to the bite", explains Denis Piper from Melzig LLC. In terms of price, however, this variety is also the most expensive. "It is differentiated according to size. It is traded in retail between €1,50-3,00 per 100g. Nevertheless, it is very popular.
Another variety that the Aschaffenburg wholesaler has in its assortment is Deglet Nour. It comes from Algeria and Tunisia and has a slightly nutty taste, Piper says. "It's a cheaper variant, 90% of which is packaged and delivered to supermarkets."
Due to the diversity of immigrated cultures, there is of course also a certain demand for fruits from all over the world, Piper knows: "This demand then allows the market in the dried fruit sector to grow strongly. I see great potential in this area and am pleased that the Melzig company has gained a foothold here."
"Especially at Christmas time, the date is a product that is well received by consumers. We have never dealt with products of this kind before and I myself only knew filled dates from the delicatessen sector".
The idea of offering filled dates in our assortment came during the company's Christmas market, which took place in November at our headquarters in Aschaffenburg. "The offer was so well received on the day of the Christmas market that we are struggling with delivery problems because we have to wait for the newly produced goods. Now we are able to supply a grocery store with filled dates in four variations." The goods are packed in special Christmas punnets and can be presented on a suitable display. "This way, the product can be sold at a price suitable for the masses."
"Dates of the Deglet Nour variety come from Algeria, the nuts are from the USA and the marzipan from the Netherlands. Production takes place in Poland and the finished product is marketed via Germany. A truly international product."
In general, the event was a great success, Piper reports: "With visitor numbers between 800-1000 people -a mix of customer suppliers and private individuals- we were able to enjoy a nice evening in Christmas mood. The wonderful Christmas decorations of Blumen Theis from Assenheim and the matching music of Gloria and the band created a harmonious atmosphere. The food and drinks were readily received, and our caterer, Meinz-Gormet, was more than enthusiastic. We ourselves were able to introduce many visitors to our products and the processes behind the scenes, and even to win new customers."
For more information:
Denis Piper, Sales Manager
Frischezentrum Aschaffenburg Melzig GmbH
Magnolienweg 46
63741 Aschaffenburg
Mobile 0159 / 04600878
Tel 06021 / 15087-52
www.melzig-gmbh.de