According to Henk Vlaeminck of Van Dijk Foods, the current European grape market is demand-driven. This Belgian company is in the midst of the Peruvian season. "We usually have some stock left, but now, everything that comes in is almost immediately sold. That's always good news for a trader," he says.
"Since the Italian season ended slightly earlier than usual, the transition from Italy to Peru was smooth." However, the supply is generally lower than in other years. "Peru is sending 20 to 25% less volume, mainly because more is going to the United States. They can get good prices there, and transportation costs significantly less. That's primarily affecting the red seedless grapes," says Henk.
Grapes are expensive, he adds. "Last year ended very well, but now, demand is high from the US and Asia, too. Prices are similar to what we saw at the end of 2023." There is not much difference between the two colors, either. "There are fewer red than white seedless, but the overall price per kilogram is almost the same. We also work with seeded grapes, and that, too, is going well. There are much lower volumes of these than the seedless varieties, but demand is generally also less, which keeps it nicely balanced," Henk explains.
Henk Vlaeminck (third from right) at the last Fruit Attraction
He is optimistic about the rest of the season but admits it is hard to predict. "Demand has been excellent so far, and I expect that to continue. The good varieties in Peru, like Autumn Crisp and especially Sweet Globe, are large, crunchy grapes. That's what European consumers want."
"In this, Peruvian grapes distinguish themselves from South African ones, so people should keep coming for them. We normally continue until about late May. If they keep selling this fast, though, we could end sooner. It remains to be seen, but if we can make it through the season like this, we'll be satisfied," Henk concludes.
For more information:
Henk Vlaeminck
Van Dijk Foods
50 Kempenare Street
2860, Sint-Katelijne-Waver, BE
Tel: +32 (0) 155 56 561
henk@vdfb.be
www.vandijkfoods.be