"February was a bad month weather-wise. The crops endured a lot of damage both in the pre- and post-harvesting phase, with a 35-40% loss in production and a shorter shelf-life. To tackle this problem, we decided to reduce exports to a minimum, as transfers to European countries take at least three days and, this way, we can avoid further losses," reports Giovanni Scavo, sales manager at Il Girasole Soc. Coop.
“The decision to reduce the exports also followed the hesitation of the leading foreign chains to invest in the indisputable quality of our produce. They are not convinced of the fact that our citrus fruit is much more appreciated by consumers despite the higher price, so they prefer introducing fruits from third countries such as Turkey, Morocco, Egypt or other European countries such as Spain."
"Covering production costs has been, and still is, hard without increasing sales prices, especially since we are dealing with price hikes every step of the way - from production to distribution - and we are affected by the economic crisis even as consumers. If, on the one hand, the lower purchasing power leads to fewer volumes being purchased, quality is not being affected. In fact, despite the competition of foreign citrus fruit, the Italian produce, and especially the Sicilian one, continues to do well with late Tarocco blood orange varieties and late tangerines."
"As is known, the regulations on pesticides in the EU are strict and restrictive unlike in extra-EU countries, and the soil and weather conditions in our production areas - all of which at the foothills of Mount Etna - mean the produce develops unique characteristics in terms of aroma, color and flavor as well as when it comes to the content of anthocyanins. In fact, supermarket chains, stores and markets serving the best clientele educated in recognizing such characteristics still request Sicilian quality despite the price."
“We need to push more and promote our productions, especially to inform consumers about the unique flavor and healthy characteristics of our oranges. We often witness misleading marketing campaigns by foreign producers and packagers that refer to Italy. Nonetheless, we like to be optimistic despite the difficulties, so we would like to reassure clients and consumers that Coop. Il Girasole will have Tarocco oranges available until mid-April."
The commercial calendar at Il Girasole lasts all year round with early and late varieties. The main ones are Navel, Tarocco, Moro, Sanguinello, Nova clementines and late tangerines from Ciaculli. As for summer fruit, the leading products are apricots, peaches and nectarines. What is more, the company is equipped with a renewable energy system that enables it to be self-sufficient for storage and processing. It is among the first citrus fruit companies to use low-impact clean energy.
For further information: 
Il Girasole Soc. Coop.
Giovanni Scavo
VIA Francesco Petrarca, 51
95047 Paternò (CT) - Italy
(+39) 095 623381
(+39) 337 950 732
info@ilgirasolearance.com
www.ilgirasolearance.com