In the dried fruit sector, the switch to goods from the new harvest takes place gradually from October/November onwards. "We now only offer figs (pictured below) and apricots from the new harvest, sourced from Turkey," says Seyfettin Kaplan, delicatessen retailer at the wholesale market in Karlsruhe. "The frost during the flowering season in April and May caused serious crop losses, especially for apricots. Compared to last year, prices for this product have sometimes doubled. Despite these high market prices, demand remains high and stable."
© Hugo Huijbers | FreshPlaza.com
The limited availability is noticeable in everyday practice: "In other years, we bought and sold dried apricots by the pallet, whereas currently we are receiving deliveries of only ten boxes." Unfortunately, there are no reasonable alternatives at this time, according to Kaplan. "Occasionally, loads from Central Asia appear, but due to a lack of delivery structures and networks, it is difficult for these countries to compete in the local markets."
© Hugo Huijbers | FreshPlaza.com
Israeli Medjool dates of the Super Jumbo grade
Stable market for dates and walnuts
Another important volume driver is the tried-and-tested date variety Medjool, which is currently available in two types. Kaplan: "We offer both normal Jumbo and Super Jumbo from the Black King brand. In both cases, the goods are newly harvested from Israel. Despite the war situation, dates have been continuously available in sufficient quantities, and we have already been able to stock up for the Christmas season." Alternatives to Israel are not currently an option for Kaplan. "Experience has shown that Jordan is difficult because of the short shelf life. The Deglet Nour variety, which is mainly grown in North Africa, is hardly of interest to our customers, primarily weekly markets, which is why we only offer it sporadically."
Another product pillar of the Seyfi company is walnuts for fresh consumption, which are sourced exclusively from Chile. "In my opinion, Chile has the best quality, also in terms of caliber and continuity. Although the goods are on average about 15-20 percent more expensive this year, demand remains high and stable here as well. We expect this item, as well as almost all the products we offer, to see a further boost in the run-up to Christmas."
© Hugo Huijbers | FreshPlaza.com
Managing Director Seyfettin Kaplan during FreshPlaza.de's visit to the wholesale market in November 2025
Online trading to increase efficiency
The Seyfi company is dedicated to the procurement and marketing of all kinds of delicatessen products, including dried fruits and a wide variety of nuts. The company's main customers are primarily the weekly markets in the wider area. Most customers pick up their goods on site, with delivery now accounting for around a third of total sales. "To increase efficiency and optimize our services, we are currently working on an entirely new website with an integrated ordering portal. We hope to be able to launch this online store before the end of the year," he concludes.
© Hugo Huijbers | FreshPlaza.com
For more information:
Seyfettin Kaplan 
Feinkosthandel Seyfi
Karlsruhe Wholesale Market
T: +49 721 6239730
M: +49 179 7467511
[email protected]
www.feinkosthandel-seyfi.de
