Netherlands: “Larger focus on Asian exotic produce”

Dutch Fresh Produce company Langfruit offers a year-round supply of exotic products, mostly for German food service customers looking to expand their in-store assortment. According to André Lamers of Langfruit business isn’t necessarily booming right now, but it was definitely slow in the past summer months.

The availability of exotic produce isn’t trickier than that of other, more common articles, says Lamers. “The products are cultivated in areas warm enough to ensure continuous supply, the only hindrances being the occasional hurricane, and the rainy season. So exotic produce is commonly readily available for distribution.”

This year, Langfruit’s focus on exotic produce has increased. “We have a lot more customers lately. We have had to hire a guy to handle it. We mostly ship young coconuts, sweet potatoes and plantains. The good thing is, once you’ve conquered a corner, the retail business represents a fairly constant patronage. Right now, figs from Brazil are a steady seller.”

Lamers claims being the middleman in the exotic produce business pays off: “Most German wholesalers or restaurants won’t easily approach distant producers. We, as mediators, can take away much of the hassle of international trade.”

For more information:
Andre Lamers
Langfruit
Tel: 077-3236620
alamers@langfruit.nl
www.langfruit.nl