Pineapples are one of the products particularly affected
by the Corona crisis. "We still see a trend that there is specific demand for the basic products, which are known as healthy and often have a longer shelf life. Classics such as citrus, cauliflower, broccoli and peppers, for example, are in great demand. That does not apply to the more exotic products such as pineapple, melons, mangoes and avocados, "says Miguel Gonzalez of MG Fruit.
"That has to do with the wallet of course, but you should also be in the mood for the more luxurious products. And that mood is missing, because no one is happy at the moment, "the experienced importer notes. "For example, for the pineapple - even more than for melons - the catering and food service is a major customer and you now miss it completely."
"The supply is normally large between weeks 15 and 25 due to the natural flowering. Now that the North American market is as good as closed, this does not make sales any easier," Miguel notes. When asked what could revive the market to some extent, he replies: "At the moment I only see that happening if importers reduce or even stop their volumes. Then you could get less offers and friendlier prices for a while, but that doesn't make you rich either."
Although the prices of the good quality, fresh pineapple are still between 8 and 10 euros, according to Miguel there are much older stocks that push down the market prices and are offered for much less money. All in all, uncertainty is an asset. All you can do yourself is be alert and remain optimistic. For example, we have started the Spanish stone fruit season again with the first arrivals of the watermelons. We are now going to focus more on that."
For more information:
MG Fruit
Miguel Gonzalez
Trade center ZHZ 49-60
2991 LD Barendrecht
The Netherlands
T: +31 (0)180 74 5470
M: +31 (0)6 5126 7933
miguel@mgfruit.nl
www.mgfruit.nl