"The campaign of PGI table grapes from Canicattì started gradually around August 20th. Now the season is livening up and big retail chains have started doing promotions," explains Salvatore Lodico, president of the Consortium.
Salvatore Lodico
"When it comes to production, we were able to withstand the excessive heat that worried us. Now production is excellent with a good flavor and Brix levels of around 17 and above."
"As for the current commercial phase, retailers are showing their interest. Italian and French big retail chains have started with special promotions, so demand has skyrocketed. September and October are traditionally months when table grape sales are lively, especially in Europe where consumers appreciate 'classic products' such as the Italia grapes, a historical variety that manages to withstand the attack of new seedless varieties thanks to its exceptional flavor."
"It boasts an intense muscat flavor combined with an appealing sweetness and amber color. These elements are hard to find in other table grape varieties, despite their exorbitant cost."
Italia grapes vineyard in the distance. Canicattì (AG)
"Quotations of the wholesale produce are currently 15% higher than last year. Of course we are talking about average prices that depend on quality - the extra produce sells at €1.70-2.00/kg, first-choice produce sells at €1.30-1.50/kg and standard produce sells at €0.90-1-00/kg. However, this trend does not compensate for the higher production costs, which are affected by the increase in the cost of raw material. Prices need to be higher to offset the increase in the price of plastic materials, which has exceeded 100%, or the price of packaging (+30-50%), or that of wood, iron and logistics."
"We hope the campaign will continue without problems and that the markets will react positively also when supermarket promotions will end. In the meantime, the Consortium continues to promote the produce on an international level."
For further information:
Salvatore Lodico 
Consorzio per la Tutela e la
Promozione dell'uva da tavola
di Canicattì I.G.P.
C.da Carlino, snc
92024 Canicattì (AG) - Italy
+39 333 2454985
uvaigpcanicatti@virgilio.it