European pear trading is currently somewhat challenging, says Mark Vernooij of Urfruit. "We're selling good volumes, but prices have dropped slightly since earlier this season. The war in Ukraine has blocked some 'transit ports' to Russia. That has negatively affected, particularly, so-called 'crate trade'."
"Southern and Eastern Europe still frequently buy Dutch and Belgian pears in this format. And companies that focus a lot on these markets are now genuinely struggling," he says. "For those that mainly trade with Western, Central, Northern European, and British retailers, the demand for good quality remains."
"It's, thus, a pity that entire loads of fruit are being sold at Belgian auctions. The pears bought there are often repackaged into other crates. The auction price should actually include that. The lower price means increased retail promotions again. That can, hopefully, partially offset the 'crate trade' losses. There are, fortunately, few quality issues. And, hopefully, things will improve again further along in the season," Mark concludes.
For more information:
Mark Vernooij
Urfruit
45 Marketing
6921 RE, Duiven, NL
Tel :+31 (0) 575 472 473
Email: m.vernooij@urfruit.nl
Website: www.urfruit.nl