The Dutch chicory market's lofty expectations did not quite materialize in February. "In weeks 1 to 5, prices averaged at around €2.10. From week 6 to 8, they fluctuated at about €1. However, demand and prices should rebound in the next while. There was a reasonable supply for Belgian auctions in the past few weeks," says Jurgen Ratelband of Tolpoort Vegetables.
"Vacations and Carnival also depressed the demand somewhat, and exports to Italy were slightly trickier. France exports quite a lot of chicory there, which adds to the price pressure. We, thus, had to stand still regarding expectations. We'd have been delighted with these prices two years ago, but they're sorely needed due to increased cultivation and harvesting costs."
"Also, there was an abundance of other open-field products, like French and Spanish cauliflower and broccoli. There have recently been many promotions with these products, leading to a shift in demand. There were especially many cauliflowers, which prices also reflected. French cauliflower, for example, was selling for €7/box. That product was promoted considerably, but the supply from both those countries will quickly decrease in March. Hopefully, that will mean higher demand and prices for chicory," Jurgen states.
Danny Duijs and Jurgen Ratelband
"Another aspect affecting the chicory market is that the early varieties are running out, depending on the grower. The upcoming varieties, especially Flexine, show a high Phythoptora pressure. That's also the case in the test boxes we've set up. That will probably be less of an issue for growers switching to the Vintor variety, though. It remains to be seen how this disease pressure will progress, but it will undoubtedly impact the supply."
"There are generally quite a few uncertainties regarding supply. That could well lead to chicory shortages and higher price formation in the coming months. Their specific weight is lower, too, resulting in fewer kilos per growing tray. The situation is, thus, significantly different from last year. Then, everyone could easily plan promotions. Now, there's a hesitancy to lock those in prematurely," Jurgen concludes.
For more information:
Jurgen Ratelband
Tolpoort Vegetables
7 Tolweg
1616 AT, Hoogkarspel, The Netherlands
Tel.: +31 (0) 228 565 781
jratelband@tolpoort.com
www.tolpoortvegetables.com