"Not only there has been an increase in volumes from Peru, but South Africa has also released large quantities of greenskin (green-skinned avocados, Editor's note); all of which means that this year will likely configure a more prolonged sales window for the Hass avocado," says Claudio Scandella, specialized in exotic supplies at Dole Italy.
"However, in order to draw a balance of the campaign," he adds, "we will have to wait until the end of June, when the peak of supply could lead to a readjustment of prices.
With regard to the market positioning of avocados in Italy, Scandella says, "In general, I believe that, unlike the super-highly exotic products, whose consumption in Italy is still limited to festivals or special occasions, the avocado has found its place, and it cannot go any lower from the volumes it has achieved so far. Domestic-grown avocados are also beginning to appear as a result of the tropicalization of the climate, however, the caliber of which is more suited to the French market than to ours. We already commercialize both avocados and mangoes under the Dole brand and we will be applying our brand to lime cartons as well."
With regard to mangoes, the specialist also confirmed that the volumes of airfreighted product, although more expensive, are growing steadily. "We commercialize huge quantities of airfreighted mangoes. "We are commercializing huge quantities of mangoes transported by air. Compared to that by sea, in fact, it has an undisputed qualitative added value that people are willing to spend for."
Claudio Scandella together with Dole Italy Marketing Manager Cristina Bambini at Macfrut 2023
"With regard to limes," concluded Scandella, "we are expecting an interesting campaign, and I must say that for the first time since taking part in the Macfrut fair, I had the chance to talk to a Brazilian producer. In any case, the commercial season is still in ahead of us and we will only be able to take stock of it in September."