In Italy, the growth in the consumption of blueberries and, more generally, of small fruits, is very high. However, it is necessary to focus on the organoleptic quality and continuity of supply.
Romualdo Riva, Berryway's commercial director, points out: "National consumption per capita can grow and, actually, it has great potential. However, it is necessary to combine the typical Italian style with excellence. Consumers are likely to buy if they enjoy a product and find reliability of the supply. The balance between sweetness and acidity, taste, size and crisp flesh are all aspects that need to be improved through the introduction of new varieties."
Berryway produces and markets Italian blueberries for 4-5 months a year, but the intention is to extend the production range to 8 months. When it lacks national produce, the blueberries come from Morocco, Spain, Peru and Chile, from selected and highly specialized companies.
Berryway produces and markets Italian blueberries for 4-5 months a year, but the intention is to extend the production range to 8 months. When it lacks national produce, the blueberries come from Morocco, Spain, Peru and Chile, from selected and highly specialized companies.
"Prices during the year are quite stable. Obviously I'm referring to a superior quality product. Low quality products can be found at any price and this somewhat penalizes the whole sector, because the consumer is likely to lose interest in the product. Compared to other countries, production costs in Italy are high because 80% is represented by the labour costs, but when the product is of high quality, the consumer chooses it anyway".
It was Berryway's first year on the market and the feedback was positive. Now we also need to raise awareness among retailers and wholesalers in the markets so that they understand that small fruits, including blueberries, need to be seen as part of a greater picture.
"Packaging is evolving towards snack consumption. They are no longer perceived as just being used in the pastry and confectionery industry. Beyond the classic 125 grams, there are now other formats to be consumed in between meals.”
"We are raising crops - concluded the director - by exploiting our acquired genetic improvement programs. In Italy, there are many production areas, from North to South, in order to prolong the production cycle. But what matters most is the organoleptic quality, together with the caliber and crispness. Not to forget the shelf life."