Tiziano and Biagio Porretta of Arpo Distribuzioni, a company specialising in the production and marketing of citrus fruits, have reported that the citrus fruit campaign in the Rosarno and Gioia Tauro Plains has kicked off a few days earlier than in previous years. This year, nighttime temperature fluctuations accelerated the ripening of Comune clementines, a variety with which the company will officially start the season in early November.
© Arpo Distribuzioni
The weather remains decisive: low rainfall and weather changes have led to an average drop in production by 30%, a figure that is now considered recurrent. The consequence is a significant fruit drop and a reduced overall supply, which is, however, compensated by medium to large grades and a quality that is excellent at least in the most carefully managed orchards.
"We have to deal with this drop every year; it has almost become the norm," explains Tiziano Porretta. "There is no shortage of difficulties, even on the phytosanitary front with the progressive reduction of authorised active ingredients, but Arpo Distribuzioni's strategy remains that of focusing on quality and the professionalism of its growers."
Arpo has expanded its production base over the years, managing to build up a long calendar that starts in November with clementines, continues with Navel oranges and the Moro and Tarocco blood oranges, and extends into May with late blond varieties such as Lane Late, Powell, and Valencia. "We specialise in giving continuity to our customers, working on different varieties and always guaranteeing high standards. It is the only way to remain competitive," adds Biagio Porretta.
Exports remain the heart of the business, and absorb between 80 and 90% of the volumes. Germany, France, and the United Kingdom are consolidated markets, but strongly guarded by Spanish competition, while Eastern Europe confirms itself as a strategic area, although the geopolitical context and the contraction of consumption in general lead operators to move with caution. "The secret is to plan volumes well and avoid flooding the market with excessive quantities. This is the only way to guarantee sales continuity."
© Arpo Distribuzioni
There is no shortage of encouraging signs: several customers have already booked part of the volumes for the new season with advance orders, covering about 50% of the availability. This is a demonstration of the trust built up over the years, thanks to a brand that stakes everything on 'export quality' and a consolidated reputation.
On the commercial front, Arpo distributes around 50% of its products to the wholesale markets and the rest to big retail chains. "Big retail chains guarantee stability with weekly programmes, while traditional markets remain important for managing flexibility and peaks in demand," explains Biagio Porretta.
If there is one period that all operators are looking forward to, it is undoubtedly Christmas. Traditionally, the festive season has always represented the peak time for citrus fruit consumption, with tight schedules and large volumes guaranteeing breathing space for the entire supply chain. In recent years, however, the scenario has changed radically. "It is no longer like it used to be - schedules close earlier and quantities remain small. The purchasing power and drive that once made citrus fruits a symbol of the holidays is missing."
© Arpo Distribuzioni
What emerges is a profound change in consumption habits. After the pandemic, purchasing has become more cautious and selective, while international tensions and rising costs have further curbed the families' willingness to spend. Yet, despite the complex picture, the hope remains for a turnaround at least in the winter months. "Christmas remains an opportunity, albeit a smaller one than in the past. We hope that the festive season can restore some vigour to consumption, because quality is high. It would be the best gift to see families return to bringing oranges and clementines to their tables as a symbol of conviviality and seasonality,' conclude Tiziano and Biagio Porretta.
For more information:
Biagio Porretta
+39 346 079 8303 
Arpo Distribuzioni Srl
Legal headquarters
Via Nazionale Sud 432 - 89025 Rosarno (RC)
Headquarters
Via Provinciale Iudicello Snc - 89026 San Ferdinando (RC)
+39 0966 711602
[email protected]
arpofruit.it
