The past few weeks have been very challenging for blueberry suppliers, traders and packers because the volumes from both Peru and South Africa simply weren't there. "Blueberries remained very much in demand in the market, so there has been a bizarre price situation for quite some time," said Robbert Leisink, from Fruitful-Berries, of Venlo, in the Netherlands.
"While in recent years the product from South Africa has usually been qualitatively inferior to that of South America, this year we have seen a reversal of that trend. Peru has been struggling with very sensitive berries, while South Africa has been delivering the 'hard marbles'. El Niño has had a very big impact on both volume and quality, and it is feared that the productions in Peru will continue to be affected over the next two seasons."
"This season has been an eye-opener, especially for retailers, which have come to terms with the fact that the product doesn't just come off a shelf when they order it. Nature determines both prices and volumes. It's all not as easy as had been assumed in recent years, leading to increased appreciation for what growers and suppliers have to deal with," said Robbert. "Growers are currently getting a high price for their fruit, but it is also quickly forgotten that the volume they can deliver is down by more than 50% compared to previous years. The high price setting just barely makes up for this volume loss."
"Heading into the upcoming weeks, we will see the arrival of good batches of blueberries until week 48/49, but the volumes will still not be enough to meet the needs of the entire market, as we have been used to in past years. Prices will remain high, as significant shortages are expected again for December," said the Dutch importer. "All in all, a challenging market situation that is keeping everyone on their toes to ensure both customers and growers make the best of it. Together we will have to endure this period, and that can only be achieved through good communication and very fair price setting to growers."
For more information:
Robbert Leisink
Fruitful-Berries
Venrayseweg 106B
5928 RH Venlo. The Netherlands
Info@fruitful-berries.com
www.fruitful-berries.com