There will be challenging times ahead for the fresh produce industry, according to Europe Retail Packing. They’ve been preparing for days such as these and state they will, though at limited capacity, continue with their trade.
Europe Retail Packing has taken the approach of diversification, says Omer Kamp: On top of our regular lines, we will expand to offer long-lasting products such as pineapples, grapes and so on. The panic among consumers has indeed, indirectly, created a demand for long-lasting lines such as potatoes, sweet potatoes and other similar lines. We still think and believe that eventually when people realize and accept this new reality, there will be more demand for all lines but, it will not be the same as before.”
The coronavirus has its effect on the trade, but also on people working in the trade. Although employees are still working, sometimes it can be a challenge to get produce where it needs to be. “Concerning logistics, there are delays due to temperature check-points across Europe. However, the greatest challenge is that many drivers simply refuse to take their chances and transport across borders. It’s understandable and therefore, we might encounter more and more of these issues whereby individuals, for obvious reasons, would refuse to risk themselves by driving across Europe,” Kamp explains. “Needless to say all employees are worried but, at the same time place their trust in ERP, the several strict measures we’ve taken to keep them as safe as possible and the company’s strong financial background. The company does not consider nor even discusses any option that entails closing the doors. This will not be the case.”
Europe Retail Packing will keep track of the developing situation and adjust accordingly: “Our goal is to follow the market and make immediate adjustments to meet the changing demand and/or requirements. The coming period will not be easy, this is easily stated and requires no explanation. However, according to ERP, the entire industry must realize that we are all, without any exceptions, are in the same boat and hence, it is up to us to make sure this industry will remain strong today and, more importantly, tomorrow when the Corona curse will be behind us. Now, more than ever, we must support each other and realize that there are no competitors in this market, there are only colleagues and counterparts.” Kamp concludes.
For more information:
Omer Kamp
Europe Retail Packing B.V.
Tel: +972 54-6512199
Email: Omer@erpnl.nl
www.europeretailpacking.nl