"We expected a 20% drop in volumes in Latina, but some producers are experiencing a 40% drop. This was partially due to the abnormal weather in spring, which affected blossoming and setting. Emilia-Romagna is doing better, with a 10-15% drop. Fruits though are 1-1.5 grade bigger than last year."
Quality also improved. The produce registered over 7° Brix on average and a dry matter content of over 16.5.
"Harvesting is almost over in our area, while it has just started in Latina."
"With such a high quality, we will start selling around mid-November. In the meantime, we will complete ripening and increase Brix levels and dry matter content. The hope is that the bigger grades and good organoleptic qualities push sales. However, we still do not know how the Greek produce will perform on the European market."
During a normal year, Granfrutta Zani sells around 15 thousand tons of kiwis. This year, it should manage to handle around 12,500 tons.
"Most of our produce is destined to exports - at least 70%. In addition to Europe, we also ship to South America (Argentina and Brazil), Asia and the Middle East. On the domestic market, we mostly deal with retailers."
"50% of the kiwis sold in Italy are commercialised under our brand, while the remaining part is sold under our clients' brands. A few years ago, we also started selling fruit that is ready for consumption under the "Solatia" brand."
"At the moment, most of our produce is of the green traditional varieties but, over the next few years, the share of golden kiwis will increase thanks to the Dorì consortium, of which we are members."
Contacts:
OP Granfrutta Zani
Raffaele Bucella
Via Monte Sant'Andrea
48018 Granarolo Faentino (RA)
Tel.: (+39) 0546 695211
Fax: (+39) 0546 41775
Email: buc@granfruttazani.it
Web: www.granfruttazani.it