Following the success of the 2024 campaign, the 2025 table grape season has proven to be more challenging yet equally rewarding. Oronzo Diomede, the president and sales manager of the producers' organization Puglia&Natura, describes an increasing production outlook and a market that continues to reward quality despite strong competition.
"From the beginning of the year, we expected a heavy season with much larger quantities than last year," Diomede explains. "We estimate a 30-40% increase in production. New plantings and more productive plants have resulted in a greater availability of bunches. As is always the case when supply increases, prices fall." Despite the oversupply, Diomede says the situation was more stable than expected. "I expected a bigger drop in prices. Instead, we are holding our own. While we're not at last year's levels, we've maintained a positive margin and are operating reasonably well, " he says.
© Op Puglia&NaturaGrapes Italia
"From the start of the year, a heavy season had been anticipated, with volumes significantly higher than the previous year. However, it cannot be used as a realistic benchmark for the current campaign. We're still looking at last year," Diomede says. "The success of last year's season was the result of an unusually favorable global situation, which was characterized by product shortages in key nations, such as Spain, Greece, and Turkey, as well as significant import delays from overseas. This combination drastically reduced supply, triggering an inevitable price increase, which was further supported by the high quality of Italian grapes." Therefore, it is difficult to accept that 2025 will be a completely different season. But this is indeed the reality, and we must deal with it."
The grape market has shown fluctuating trends
"So far, it has been a season of ups and downs, with peaks in demand followed by slowdowns. Last year, on the other hand, we worked at a steady pace due to a lack of product everywhere. This year, however, there is more supply, and in some areas, such as Germany, there has been a slight drop in consumption. Our German customers have informed us that the closure of some car plants has reduced purchasing power and affected food consumption."
© Op Puglia&Natura
Late Pearl seedless, Autumn Pearl seedless, and Kelly seedless grapes
Despite the difficulties, exports have increased. "We've shipped more than usual," Diomede confirms. "Although the first arrivals from Peru and Brazil are appearing on the market, they're not a concern for us." Italian products are the first choice for freshness and quality. Grapes from other countries are expensive, and their quality isn't as high at the moment. We may start to feel more competition by mid-November.
The weather conditions are also working in the campaign's favor. The prevailing weather conditions are proving advantageous, with no quality issues or delays in the fields. As long as this continues, the season can continue. I can't define an exact closing period yet. It could be until the end of November, the beginning of December, or the Christmas season."
Quality and loyalty
Product quality remains the main distinguishing feature of Op Puglia&Natura. This year, we achieved an even higher level of quality, allowing us to maintain steady sales. In a saturated market, quality and brand strength make the difference. "In the midst of so much supply and confusion, customers rely on those they know and those who provide guarantees," Diomede emphasizes.
© Op Puglia&Natura
Ultra late seedless Kelly variety
Loyalty is the result of years of work. "We have noticed that our brands have become a point of reference for our customers and theirs. Participating in Fruit Logistica in Berlin has yielded tangible results. Some of the new contacts we made at the fair have already placed orders for this campaign. In fact, we will be there again in February."
Citrus fruits: The first clementines are on the way
As the grape season comes to a close, Op Puglia&Natura is transitioning to citrus fruits. "We've started with the first clementines," says Diomede. "These are the first fruits, so the actual marketing will start in about ten days. This year, we will also have oranges, which are already available in limited quantities in Apulia and Spain. The producers are preparing to maintain the price, as they are aware of this," Diomede concludes.
For more information:
Oronzo Diomede - President/Commercial Manager
+39 340 2203352
[email protected]
Pasquale Parente - CMO manager
+39 3928974418
Op Puglia&Natura
P.zza delle Regioni, 4
70018 Rutigliano (BA) - Italy
+39 (0) 804770977
[email protected]
www.pugliaenatura.it
