The commercialization of Italian kiwifruit is rather positive in general. FreshPlaza talked about it with an operator.
"In general, I can say kiwifruits seem to be among the favorite with European consumers during the Covid-19 pandemic considering their shelf-life and vitamin C content."
As for green kiwifruit, sales are good according to the expert despite the Greek competition. "We are expecting demand and prices to improve as of mid-February and mostly as of mid-March due to the Easter special promotions in Europe. Organic green kiwifruit are doing well, with demand and prices increasing on a global level, especially in North America."
Golden kiwifruit sales are good with consumption on the up. "These fruits are demanded all over the world and the Jintao variety is doing well, which is considered the best of the local Italian production."
Red kiwifruits are a niche product however, considering the very limited quantities, they finished around 3 weeks ago. "Prices were impressive."
Pear campaign showing signs of recovery
As regards the Italian pear supply, after a slowdown (mid-November to mid-December 2020) due to the pressure of Conference pears from Benelux on the foreign markets, consumption has picked up and the campaign is proceeding normally.
"Stocks of green William pears are slightly higher than in past years, but consumption is increasing, especially in France. We are expecting to end stocks towards February 20th-25th. Abate sales are proceeding normally and the produce available should finish towards late April. As for Kaiser pears, the fruits are becoming available in all supermarkets even abroad after a slow start. The campaign should end towards late April. Decana too had a slow start, but volumes are limited and sales should end around mid-April."