Germany: Update from Fruit Logistica
FRUIT LOGISTICA celebrates its twentieth anniversary with two impressive statistics. What began in 1993 with an area of 4,000m2, about the size of a village football pitch, has now grown to an impressive 112,000m2. Twenty years ago, only 100 exhibitors presented their products in the Berlin exhibition halls. Today more than 2,500 exhibitors from 84 different countries are showcasing their products and services at the world's leading fresh produce trade fair. The secret of the event's success? "From the very beginning, quality always came before quantity", says Dr. Christian Göke, Chief Operating Officer, Messe Berlin GmbH.
German consumers bought an average 138.6 kg of fresh produce in 2011
Last year, German consumers bought an average 138.6 kg of fresh produce. They paid an average EUR 124.96 for 76.7 kg of fresh fruit (down 6% from 2010). For 61.86 kg of fresh vegetables (up 1%) they spent an average EUR 117. Around 850 million tonnes of fruit and around 775 million tonnes of vegetables were produced worldwide in 2011. The EU is the world's largest importing region for fresh fruit. Only 10% of the total volume of fresh produce is traded across borders. More than 90% of harvests remain in the producer country.
Growers and retailers launch EUR 1.5 million advertising campaign
EUR 1.5 million will be invested by 2014 in a three-year, nationwide poster campaign funded by the EU, the German Association of Fruit and Vegetable Growers (BVEO), German Fruit Trade Association (DFHV), Fruit & Vegetable Council of Holland and the Flanders' Agricultural Marketing Board (VLAM). The aim is to restore consumer confidence following the E.coli scare. According to Chairman of the Trade Fair Advisory Board, Günter Schweinsberg from Fruchthandel Magazine, the '5 A Day' campaign will run in 900 cities. In addition, a training programme for fruit and vegetable retail specialists has been developed in cooperation with the Chamber of Industry and Commerce. The aim is to improve consumer relations, reported DFHV President Dieter Krauß at the opening of FRUIT LOGISTICA. The first six-month pilot course is scheduled to begin soon.
DFHV President Krauß: Fresh produce specialists to help boost sales
Fruit and vegetables are becoming cheaper and cheaper, but German consumers expect a continuous improvement when it comes to quality: "This is a misconception" said Dieter Krauß, President of the German Fruit Trade Association (DFHV), at the FRUIT LOGISTICA 2012 opening press conference. Germany is around 40% self-sufficient in vegetables and just 20% in fruit. According to Krauß, "Germany is a classic importing country. Regional sourcing is only a partial solution." He emphasized the importance of increasing sales and establishing better relations with consumers. This was why the DFHV together with the Chamber of Industry and Commerce created a professional training course for fruit and vegetable retail specialists. Following a six-month training period, course graduates work as consumer advisors at the point of sale.
AMI market experts present the latest market figures
The agricultural information company AMI has published the latest edition of its fresh produce market review in time for the meeting of international fruit and vegetable industry at FRUIT LOGISTICA 2012. The AMI market review presents comprehensive information on long-term developments in Germany's fruit and vegetable markets, from production and export, to consumption. This year for the first time, the market review is supplemented by graphics showing fresh produce advertising by food retailers and by detailed product tables. Trade fair visitors are invited to preview the new yearbooks and order copies on site. In Hall 20, Stand C-11, visitors will have an opportunity to become acquainted with the online Fresh Produce Market Today and the AMI Fruit and Vegetable Market Weekly. (Hall 20, Stand C-11. Contact: Susi Meurer-Elfgen, tel.: +49(0)228/33805-402 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting +49(0)228/33805-402 end_of_the_skype_highlighting, e-mail: susi.meurer-elfgen@ami-informiert.de)
BVEO launches new consumer campaign
The German Association of Fruit and Vegetable Growers (BVEO) is launching its new nationwide consumer campaign at FRUIT LOGISTICA 2012. The campaign aims to build consumer awareness of fruit and vegetables from Germany as premium products and to increase demand for German-grown fresh produce. The advertising campaign is divided into two parts. The first flight encompasses year-round basic communication about all aspects of German fruit and vegetables in all their variety. The second addresses individual, seasonal product categories. "FRUIT LOGISTICA is an important platform. It gives us an opportunity to introduce our new campaign to the public and to highlight the many advantages of domestic fruit and vegetables when it comes to freshness, quality and the environment", explains BVEO Managing Director Karl Schmitz. (Hall 20, Stand C-08. Contact: Annelies C. Peiner, e-mail: presse@deutsches-obst-und-gemuese.de)
Anecoop launches a new line of exotic fruits
Although results of the 2010-2011 campaign have not been officially published yet, Joan Mir, Managing Director of Anecoop, reports: “We have increased our sales volume by 6 per cent compared to last year, but we have decreased in turnover.” The Spanish association presents at FRUIT LOGISTICA 2012 a new fruits range known as “Bouquet Exotic”. It includes avocado, cherimoya (custard apple), mango, papaya, pitaya (dragon fruit), pomegranate, loquat, persimmon, kiwifruit and figs, all of them grown in Spain and naturally ripened on the tree. Anecoop has booked this time 17 per cent more stand space than 2011 and has renewed the corporate image of its 140 square meter stand. “All the European companies and subsidiaries within the Anecoop Group are represented in our stand. So we needed a wider place”, says Mir. (Hall 18, position B-03. Contact: Piedad Coscolla, phone: +34(0)96/3038500 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting +34(0)96/3038500 end_of_the_skype_highlighting, e-mail: info@anecoop.com)
BASF redefines crop protection
FRUIT LOGISTICA 2012 is where BASF is presenting new crop protection measures that allow treated produce to be transported more quickly to consumers' tables. The AgCelene crop protection programme helps plants overcome stress conditions more efficiently. It also allows for greater flexibility in harvesting dates, since the residue level is extremely low and meets all trade and consumer standards. (Hall 21, Stand B-11. Contact: Antoine Meyer, tel. +49(0)621/6027681 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting +49(0)621/6027681 end_of_the_skype_highlighting, e-mail: antoine.meyer@basf.com)
BBO Datentechnik: Fully integrated software solution
BBO Datentechnik presents FRESHfin at FRUIT LOGISTICA in Hall 20. The software is based on Microsoft Dynamics NAV and offers companies in the fresh produce industry a fully integrated software solution. It facilitates and supports extensive organizational optimization measures. Processes become more efficient, operations are automated and day-to-day business is quicker. The analysis and evaluation tool QlikView is the perfect complement to FRESHfin. It delivers the required figures and evaluations quickly and reliably, so that the right decisions can be made in the relevant business segment. (Hall 20, Stand C-14. Contact: Frank Perschmann, tel. +49(0)30/4355000 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting +49(0)30/4355000 end_of_the_skype_highlighting, e-mail: bbo@bbo.de)
Debut for Black Garlic from Great Britain
The British company Black Garlic is making its first appearance at FRUIT LOGISTICA this year. The Black Garlic product is aged over several weeks under controlled temperature and humidity conditions. This gives it a subtle taste of balsamic and dried fruit with none of the conventional garlic odour after consumption. Already present in British supermarkets, the company has now launched its business in Europe and is looking for retailers and bulk purchasers throughout Europe, Africa and the Middle East. (Hall 8.2, Stand A-05. Contact: Charles Conder, tel. +44 7500/897770 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting +44 7500/897770 end_of_the_skype_highlighting, e-mail: info@blackgarlic.co.uk)
Chiquita: 20 years with the Rainforest Alliance
At FRUIT LOGISTICA 2012, Chiquita is celebrating its 20-year partnership with the environmental protection organization Rainforest Alliance and the success of other partnerships. "Chiquita products are characterised by the highest premium quality and outstanding taste", says Ernst Schulte, Managing Director Chiquita Germany/Austria. However, quality is not Chiquita's only core area of expertise. "We are one of the first companies in the industry to commit to sustainable and responsible production, and we have been working according to the stringent certification standards of Rainforest Alliance since 1992". Chiquita has set a milestone with this partnership, Schulte says, as long-term joint-ventures between multi-fruit companies and non-governmental organizations are not common in the industry. (Hall 25, Stand B-11. Contact: Marc-Pierre Hoeft, tel. +49(0)40/37479841 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting +49(0)40/37479841 end_of_the_skype_highlighting, e-mail: marc-pierre.hoeft@edelman.com)
Cobana Fruchtring researches consumer preferences
In order to learn more about consumer preferences, Cobana Fruchtring conducted 490 interviews together with POS promotions at various locations over the past few months. The survey results are being presented at FRUIT LOGISTICA 2012. Marketing Director Stephan Schlick explains: "What was remarkable was that less than 9% of those surveyed had the impression that they consume less fruit and vegetables now than in the past. As many as 46% are convinced that they actually consume more". Another question focused on reasons that might prevent consumers from purchasing fresh fruit and vegetables. Nearly 48% of those interviewed were not satisfied with freshness, 18% with the ripeness of fruit, and 9% with the taste. (Hall 6.2, Stand A-03. Contact: Stephan Schlick, tel.: +49(0)40/30305270 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting +49(0)40/30305270 end_of_the_skype_highlighting, e-mail: sst@cobana-fruchtring.de)
Dole Europe presents recycling initiative
As part of its four-pillar sustainability strategy, Dole Europe will present a video at FRUIT LOGISTICA 2012 highlighting its initiatives for reducing and recycling waste on its plantations. The video shows, for example, how plastic waste is recycled to make pallet corners in Costa Rica. The company will also inform trade visitors about the development of different innovative product lines. This includes the expansion of Dole's Latin American product range through the introduction of plantains packaged in attractive bags, along with marketing measures for boosting sales. "We've had considerable success with the introduction of several varieties of berries that are available year-round", says Marketing Director Xavier Roussel. (Hall 6.2, Stand A-02. Contact: Xavier Roussel, tel. +49(0)40/329060 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting +49(0)40/329060 end_of_the_skype_highlighting, e-mail: xavier.roussel@dole.com)
VLAM: Flandria is Europe's frontrunner
"With more than 500,000 tonnes each year, Flandria is Europe's leading label for vegetables delivered fresh from the producer", explains Kristophe Thijs, new director of the Flanders' Agricultural Marketing Board (VLAM) in Germany, at FRUIT LOGISTICA 2012. The Flandria quality label includes 60 varieties of fresh vegetables and 35 'Specialty Street' products. Belgian growers produce 870,000 tonnes of vegetables each year for the fresh produce market. 570,000 tonnes are distributed to EU countries, including 165,000 tonnes to Germany. Top sellers in the export package are tomatoes, lettuce, cucumbers and leeks. "According to a market survey, 88% of the respondents indicated that Flandria is the most widely recognized vegetable brand in the German retail sector", says Thijs. "Flandria achieves the greatest market penetration: 75%". (Hall 6.2, Stand B-06. Contact: Kristophe Thijs, tel. +49(0)221/254857 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting +49(0)221/254857 end_of_the_skype_highlighting, e-mail: vlam.belg.agrar@t-online.de)
Apples for children, tomatoes and white carrots from France
Under the '100% Lunor' label, Lunor Distribution is offering beetroot and carrot cubes, potato wedges and maize kernels – all pre-cooked and packaged in microwaveable plastic trays. The new polythene film and bags from St. André Plastique / Plasticaen increase the shelf life of fruit and vegetables. Festifruits has developed a new, transparent, resealable polypropylene tray for packaging dried fruit, herbs and spices. For the first time, the Boyer company will be bringing its Corsican clementines with the Philibon brand designation of origin to FRUIT LOGISTICA 2012. Other new products include Wostin soya bean sprouts with the Wofoo label, Pomalia exclusive, organic-quality Ariane apple, T&B Vergers apples with the Les Poom's apple label produced especially for children age 12 and under, Valprim hamburger onions also aimed at young people, Tomate Jouno colourful collection of tomatoes 'Le Potager des 4 vents', and the crimson, yellow and white carrots from Les Jardins de Creances. (Hall 22, Stand D-18. Contact: Barbara Peters, tel. +49(0)211/4980827 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting +49(0)211/4980827 end_of_the_skype_highlighting, e-mail: barbara.peters@sopexa.com)
Freshfel Europe uses trade fair for meetings and networking
“FRUIT LOGISTICA is a great place for networking and talks with industry leaders and representatives about the role of Freshfel, the achievements reached recently and to discuss priorities for future actions”, says Philippe Binard, General Delegate of Freshfel Europe. Furthermore, for many years Freshfel holds within the frame of the fair an important trade policy meeting to discuss with members from across the chain and across Europe and beyond the latest developments of the industry. Issues will include, among others, a state of play of the sector, trade developments and negotiations, food safety, plant health and Freshfel’s communication campaign for 2012, including the “Enjoy Fresh” platform which will be established by mid-2012. (Hall 5.2, position B-04. Contact: Philippe Binard, phone: +32(0)2/7771580 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting +32(0)2/7771580 end_of_the_skype_highlighting, e-mail: info@freshfel.org)
Fruchthof Berlin celebrates 50 years
"We will be highlighting our role as the German capital's fresh produce centre at FRUIT LOGISTICA", explains Dieter Krauß, CEO at Fruchthof Berlin. For the past 50 years the company has been supplying fresh produce to the capital city – and to surrounding areas since the fall of the Berlin Wall. Fruchthof also supplies the regions Mecklenburg-West Pomerania, Saxony-Anhalt and Saxony. The Fruchthof site covers 85,000 square metres, including an indoor sales area with 29,000 square metres. Fruchthof Berlin hosts 42 fruit import and wholesale companies, along with 46 other firms. "We have more than 1,000 employees and 2,500 registered customers", Krauß adds. (Halle 21, Stand F-12. Contact: Dieter Krauß, tel. +49(0)30/3955007 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting +49(0)30/3955007 end_of_the_skype_highlighting, e-mail: info@fruchthof-berlin.de)
Fyffes marks one-year anniversary of 'Fyffes Plantain Chips'
Fyffes Plantain Chips have been on the market for one year – and one million bags have already been sold. A year ago, not many people thought of plantains as a snack food. This attitude has changed in four European countries, where the innovative premium snack has experienced a notable surge in popularity – primarily driven by the product's taste. Fyffes relied almost exclusively on direct POS promotions when they launched the product in fresh produce departments. "Plantain Chips position us as an innovator of premium products in the retail sector", says Oscar Dominguez, Business Manager for Fyffes Plantain Chips. "To further promote Plantain Chips in 2012, we'll continue to offer consumer tastings and provide customized marketing concepts to support our partners on an individualized level", adds Michaela Schneider, Fyffes Business Development Manager, speaking at FRUIT LOGISTICA 2012. (Hall 5.2, Stand A-04. Contact: Michaela Schneider, tel. +49(0)172/4018228 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting +49(0)172/4018228 end_of_the_skype_highlighting, e-mail: mschneider@fyffes.com)
Interest grows in GFI network
The GFI German Fresh Food Markets association established four business divisions in 2011 for the purpose of placing a more targeted focus on key tasks, including market development, marketing partners, benchmarking and representing special interests. At FRUIT LOGISTICA 2012, GFI Chairman Uwe Kluge expressed how very pleased he is with the course of the business year: "We're currently experiencing an exciting sense of optimism among fresh food markets. We're also seeing increased commitment on the part of our members. This not only improves the quality of our discussions when sharing information and experiences, it also allows us to better connect joint projects for the future. We can see that interest in our network is growing." (Hall 21, Stand F-12. Contact: Frank Willhausen, tel. +49(0)174/8152314 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting +49(0)174/8152314 end_of_the_skype_highlighting, e-mail: frank.willhausen@frischemaerkte.org)
Hamburg wholesale market: Platform for discussions and negotiations
The Hamburg wholesale market is present at FRUIT LOGISTICA for the 14th consecutive year. As in the past, the freshness centre of the north is sharing a 400 square metre stand in Hall 21 with other GFI fresh markets. The exhibition stand offers visitors an opportunity to learn about the importance of the wholesale market and receive information, including company lists and brochures. According to the exhibitor, the stand serves a number of wholesalers and importers as an important platform for in-depth discussions and negotiations with customers and suppliers from around the world. (Hall 21, Stand F-12. Contact: Torsten Berens, tel. +49 (0) 40/428542357 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting +49 (0) 40/428542357 end_of_the_skype_highlighting, e-mail: info@grossmarkt.hamburg.de)
Germany reduced CO2 emissions by 105 million tonnes in 2011 – Switzerland opens CO2 bank
GROW, a trade association for manufacturers of wooden crates and baskets, is promoting at FRUIT LOGISTICA 2012 for wood as an ideal CO2 storage with large mitigation potential when it is consistently used in building construction, interior design, pallets and fresh produce packaging. Germany reduced CO2 emissions by 105 million tonnes in 2011 by using wood as a building material instead of other materials with a carbon footprint. This amount is equivalent to about 13% of total greenhouse gas emissions in Germany. Neighbouring country Switzerland will soon be setting up a CO2 bank. Similar to CO2 emissions trading, the organization will make it possible to trade the CO2 in wood products. (Hall 20, Stand C-16. Contact: Uwe Groll, tel. +49 (0) 6237/929593 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting +49 (0) 6237/929593 end_of_the_skype_highlighting)
Herbert: New machines in anniversary year
A new potato washing machine and new Variclean washing and sorting machines are being presented by the UK-based firm Herbert on the occasion of its 40th anniversary at the 20th edition of FRUIT LOGISTICA. "We look forward to welcoming old and new friends at our booth", says marketing director Jo Herbert. "We have been offering technical solutions for producers and packers for the past 40 years and have become established as one of the world's leading suppliers of innovative processing and packaging." (Hall 3.1, Stand D-11. Contact: Jo Herbert, tel. +44 1945 430 666 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting +44 1945 430 666 end_of_the_skype_highlighting, e-mail: jherbert@rjherbert@co.uk)
"We Care, You Enjoy!" – Hortyfruta presents promotional campaign
Hortyfruta, the Andalusian fresh produce trade association is launching its new "We Care, You Enjoy!" promotional campaign at FRUIT LOGISTICA 2012. The campaign, which will run for the next three years in Germany, Austria and Great Britain, is aimed at restoring consumer confidence in fresh fruits and vegetables lost after the E. coli crisis. Consumer should be able to see that European fruit and vegetables are safe, healthy, and enjoyable. The campaign features well-known German actress, Esther Schweins.
Inter introduces NINO pineapple with QR-code
Recognized in the industry under the acronym "Inter", the Internationale Fruchtimport Gesellschaft Weichert GmbH & Co. KG, is introducing NINO pineapples from Ecuador with QR code at FRUIT LOGISTICA 2012 in Hall 5.2. The Quick Response code allows smartphone owners to obtain information on the history, production and nutritional value of pineapple directly at the POS", said Marketing Manager Ralph Fischer. Food retailers can also use this code in their advertising media. "This gives consumers an opportunity to obtain detailed product information from flyers or newspaper ads", Fischer explained. (Hall 5.2, Stand A-04. Contact: Ralph Fischer, tel. +49-(0)-40-329000 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting +49-(0)-40-329000 end_of_the_skype_highlighting, e-mail: r.fischer@interweichert.de)
"Le Crunch" donates EUR 5,000 to SOS Children's Village
At FRUIT LOGISTICA, a representative of the French apple brand "Le Crunch" will present a EUR 5,000 cheque to the SOS Children's Villages. On 8 February at 17.30 h, Christian Fürst, education coach at the SOS Vocational Training Centre in Berlin, will be at the Interfel stand to receive the donation on behalf of the German charitable organization. Support from Le Crunch has become a tradition: SOS Children's Villages in Germany received free apple shipments in 2011. This year, apple trees will be planted at five Children's Village locations. (Hall 22, Stand C-22. Contact: Christian Fürst, tel. +49 (0) 89/126060 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting +49 (0) 89/126060 end_of_the_skype_highlighting, e-mail: info@sos-kinderdorf.de)
New development at Linde: Gas mixture ripens fruit and vegetables faster
FRUIT LOGISTICA is where Linde is presenting a new process that uses a gas mixture of nitrogen and ethylene to control the natural ripening process of tomatoes, bananas and other fruits and vegetables. The method may also prevent precocious germination of potatoes. Made up of 100% natural ingredients, the mixture can be regulated and fed into air-conditioned storage rooms. (Hall 21, Stand E-06. Contact: Silvia Henke, tel. +49 (0) 89/7446 2028 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting +49 (0) 89/7446 2028 end_of_the_skype_highlighting, e-mail: silvia.henke@de.linde-gas.com)
Morocco: Mandarin growers association founded
The newly formed "Association des Producteurs de Nadorcott au Maroc" is appearing for the first time this year at FRUIT LOGISTICA. The Association's members produce a Moroccan mandarin that grows on the Nadorcott tree. Fruit sold under the Afourer label is required to meet strict quality standards for citrus products, because the first seedling was planted in Afourer. Nadorcott plantations are isolated. According to the association's Secretary General Mohammed Benbiga, the trees self-pollinate and produce seedless fruits. The mandarins are a late maturing variety with a sweet aroma that can be harvested from January to April. (Hall 1.1, A-02. Contact: Mohammed Benbiga, tel. +211 (0) 522 933 559, e-mail: benbiga@domaines.co.ma)
Monsanto presents super broccoli and Frescada lettuce line
The Monsanto Group seed division is presenting the new "Beneforte" and "Frescada Lettuce" brands at FRUIT LOGISTICA 2012. Beneforte broccoli was created by crossing commercial varieties with a wild variety. Originating in southern Italy, the wild broccoli ensures an unusually high production of plant nutrients such as glucoraphanin, which has cancer-preventive properties. The long, green Frescada Sweet Lettuce combines the crunchiness of iceberg lettuce with the taste of romaine lettuce. The "Frescada Butterhead" is a romaine/head lettuce hybrid that tastes like head lettuce, but has crispier leaves.
MULTIVAC: Safe and hygienic packaging
Using the semi-automatic T 100 tray sealer, MULTIVAC is at FRUIT LOGISTICA to show small fruit and vegetable vendors how to package their products safely and hygienically. Despite its compact design, the T 100 has a vacuum and gas supply system and is used for production of MAP packaging in MULTIVAC quality. The company is also presenting the T 300, another machine model for small and medium-size companies. An easy to understand operating principle and simple operation make it easy for small companies to enter into automatic packaging with trays. The T 300 seals 20 packages per minute with automatic tray feeding. (Hall 3.1, Stand D-09. Contact: Valeska Haux, tel. +49 / (0) 8334/601495, e-mail: valeska.haux@multivac.de)
Hearty apple experience: fresh, juicy, Styrian
Apples sold under the "frisch-saftig-steirisch" brand have been present at FRUIT LOGISTICA for the past 20 years. "These products have become the best-selling Austrian apples in Germany and a top-selling export over the past few years", said Franz Schaden, Marketing Manager for OPST Obst Partner Steiermark GmbH. He explained that the consistently high quality of the apples is due to the best natural growing conditions in eastern Styria, and mineral-rich volcanic soil. Growth is also supported by an unusual climate constellation. The eastern foothills of the European apple belt is where Alpine, Pannonian and Mediterranean climatic influences meet. According to Schaden: "This ensures warm, sunny days and cool nights – ideal conditions for hearty apples". (Hall 20, Stand A-12. Contact: Franz Schaden, tel. +43 (0) 664/88418840 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting +43 (0) 664/88418840 end_of_the_skype_highlighting, e-mail: franz.schaden@opst.at)
Seyfert produces attractive packaging for fruit and vegetables
Seyfert GmbH based in Reichenbach is presenting innovative packaging modules made from corrugated cardboard at FRUIT LOGISTICA 2012. The idea is to stimulate consumer buying at the point of sale. The non-square packages are designed to subtly stimulate the consumer's appetite and interest. All packages are subject to environmental and social standards. (Hall 21, Stand F-09. Contact: Lars Sturm, tel. +49 (0) 2173/498409 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting +49 (0) 2173/498409 end_of_the_skype_highlighting)
South Tyrol celebrates apple harvest record
Despite unpredictable autumn weather, South Tyrol set a new record with the 2011 apple harvest. South Tyrolean apple growers at FRUIT LOGISTICA 2012 reported a booming business with 1,180,991 tonnes harvested – a 10.93% increase compared to 2010. The size of the fruit was also more satisfactory than in 2010. However, the yield primarily benefited the industrial fruit sector with a 14.47% share of the total crop; much higher than the 9% share in 2010. Sales of fresh fruit remained virtually unchanged. The reason for this development lies in the powerful hailstorms in late 2011. Things remained the same in the hierarchy of varieties: Golden Delicious apples accounted for 42% of the harvest, followed by Gala in second place (16%), and Red Delicious with nearly 11%. (Hall 4.2, Stand B-10. Contact: Paul Zandanel, tel. +39 (0) 471/945750 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting +39 (0) 471/945750 end_of_the_skype_highlighting, e-mail: info@suedtirolerapfel.com)
Trieste: Logistics hub with trains to Rostock
In line with the theme "Trieste – green road to Europe", the Italian port city is being promoted at FRUIT LOGISTICA by the Chamber of Commerce and Port Authority as a hub for fruit and vegetables. Participants include terminal operators along with logistics and freight forwarding companies and the Trieste wholesale market centre. Starting this month, two trains per week from Alpe Adria, a joint venture between the Port Authority, the regional financial holding company Friulia and Trenitalia, will run between the ports of Trieste and Rostock. These trains will primarily transport agricultural products from the Mediterranean to northern Europe. (Hall 2.2, Stand D-01. Contact: Andrea Bulgarelli, tel. +39 (0) 40/6701264 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting +39 (0) 40/6701264 end_of_the_skype_highlighting, e-mail: andrea.bulgarelli@ariestrieste.it)
UNIVEG creates cutting-edge service network
UNIVEG Germany is planning to open its new, 13,300 square metre distribution centre in Duisburg in spring 2012. The new UNIVEG Katopé France 7,000 square metre operations centre was completed at the international wholesale market site in Rungis in 2011. "By combining our state-of-the-art service network with our careful, committed approach, we can offer customers new ways to differentiate products and services, and pave the way to a sustainable future for new generations", explains Francis Kint, CEO of the UNIVEG Fresh Produce division. The UNIVEG trade fair presence at FRUIT LOGISTICA 2012 focuses on the creation of modern infrastructure, investment in service centres, a stronger presence with a search for new partner companies in key procurement regions worldwide, and a commitment to sustainability. (Hall 5.2, Stand A-03. Contact: Nancy Goovaerts, tel. +32 (0) 15/324296 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting +32 (0) 15/324296 end_of_the_skype_highlighting, e-mail: nancy.goovaerts@univeg.com)
Stronger U.S. presence at trade fair
Celebrating their trade show debut in the USA Pavilion at FRUIT LOGISTICA 2012 are Lazo TPC Global, ElastiTag Bedford Industries, The New York Produce Show and Conference, and the National Pecan Growers Council. Lazo TPC Global supplies technology for thermal pest control. This approach reduces pesticide use on table grapes, cherries, blueberries, kiwi fruit and other products. ELASTITAG®, presented by ElastiTag Bedford Industries, is a durable label that is suitable for point-of-purchase coupons, cross-merchandising, direct marketing campaigns and product identification. The 26 exhibitors in the USA Pavilion include a number of organizations representing U.S. growers and producers. Exhibitors from North America present in other exhibition halls include Agraquest and American Airlines Cargo. (Hall 23, Stand A-01. Contact: Dorothy Baxter, tel. +1-540-372-3777 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting +1-540-372-3777 end_of_the_skype_highlighting, e-mail: dbaxter@exhibitpro.com)
For more information:
Michael T. Hoffer
Director Press and Public Relations
Messe Berlin
Wolfgang Rogall
Press Officer
Messe Berlin
Messerdamm 22
14055, Berlin
Germany
Tel: +49 (0)30/3038 2218 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting +49 (0)30/3038 2218 end_of_the_skype_highlighting
Fax:+49 (0)30/3038 2287
Email: rogall@messe-berlin.de