The corona crisis has hit Spain hard. Dutchman, Paul van Groningen of Greenfood Iberica, gives an update from Palamós. This town is in Costa Brava, Spain. "The corona crisis is having a major impact on everyday life here too. Shops that sell necessities are still open. The rest have all been shut for more than two weeks now. You are not allowed to go for a walk."
"You are only allowed to be on the street if you are buying something to eat or drink. Or if you are going to the doctor or pharmacy. The usually busy and lively market hall here in town is now very quiet on Saturday mornings. There are only a few stalls open. The supermarkets are also no longer a madhouse. People are only buying the essentials."
"Here at Greenfood Iberica, we have, of course, noticed that our clients who usually service companies in the hospitality industry need very little. Sales to retail clients and traders that supply this sector are going reasonably well. We have an advantage in that we still send different shipments to the north every day. Now, new clients are catching a lift with us," says Paul.
"Finding transportation is becoming increasingly difficult. Products are also becoming scarcer. This is partly due to all the rain in the cultivation areas. But, there is also a staff shortage. That is because of the corona restrictions at growers and packing plants. We are now getting requests from traders who usually import full loads of produce. They are now asking for help in sourcing and transport."
"We are expecting to load the first small volumes of stone fruit and watermelons this week. Then we can bring a bit of sunshine into the homes of people in northern Europe. They have to remain indoors a lot now. Juicy watermelons and healthy peaches will make for a cheerful note in these hard times. We remain positive," concludes Paul.
For more information:
Paul van Groningen
GreenFood Iberica
C/Avda.Catalunya,
33-35 I 17253 Mont-ras (Girona)
Catalonia, Spain
Tel: +34 (0) 972 667 216
Email: paul@greenfoodiberica.es
Website: www.greenfoodiberica.es