Greece is going back into lockdown this Saturday. The town of Thessaloniki was already in a lockdown, but as things are getting worse the restrictions will now be implemented nation-wide. Although the lockdown will definitely have an impact, one exporter is optimistic that their kiwi sales will not suffer from it.
As the coronavirus spreads in various European countries, lockdowns are once again being implemented to stop the spread. As the situation was also getting worse in Greece, the government has announced a new lockdown, starting this weekend. According to Christina Manossis, sales manager for Zeus SA, says it’s a worrying time: “The new lockdown will start tomorrow, on Saturday. It started earlier for Thessaloniki, but now, as things are getting worse, we are having a second nation-wide lockdown for three weeks. As the virus is spreading more aggressively this time, we are more worried about our workers health this time around.”
The effect it could have on their business is still uncertain, Manossis explains. “We currently don’t know what to expect in terms of logistics, what will be closed down and what will still be available to traders is important to know. When it comes to the kiwi sales, however, we remain optimistic. We believe that consumers will try to boost their immune system once again, by including healthy eating habits. As the kiwifruit is very rich in vitamins and ideal to counter the flu, I don’t see a reason why consumption would reduce during the pandemic. Especially since doctors and nutritionists are recommending that people eat fresh fruit and vegetables.”
Manossis feels their workers’ health and safety is most important, above all else: “I have to say that we are very cautious and severe when it comes to our Covid-protocol. Packhouse rules are very strict, and all procedures and operations have been restructured based on these safety protocols. Naturally this has an impact on daily productivity, and thus a higher total cost, however this is not as important for Zeus as its workers’ welfare and safety. This must always come first!” she concludes.
For more information:
Christina Manossis
Zeus Kiwi SA
Tel: +30 2351 053559
Mobile: +30 697 2822 075
Email: christinam@zeuskiwi.gr
www.zeuskiwi.gr