Good volume development, but less consumption due to bad weather
On average there were 15 rainy days in May, June and July. Additionally, May was characterized by low temperatures. When the weather is poor in early summer, people barbecue less and are less prone to buying fresh vegetables. As a consequence, this year, a lot more fresh vegetables had to be exported than in previous years. With an increase of 50.8%, the 2016 season saw more exports than any other in the history of LGV-Frischgemüse.
Vegetable specialties: Success through quality
Particularly successful are still the vegetable specialties of the LGV gardeners. While the amounts of tomatoes sold fell slightly, due to an Austrian-wide surplus, mini cucumber sales increased by about 21% and augergines by about 23%. LGV gardeners have been trying out new and unique vegetables for decades. The experiences of the horticultural families, which are passed on from generation to generation and from plant to plant, make this diverse and high-quality vegetable assortment possible.
Diversity, innovation and sustainability as leading principle
"Diversity and innovation are very strongly developed in LGV-Frischgemüse products, because the horticultural families provide the necessary expertise and flexibility," says Managing Director Michael Wehofer, when describing the strengths of small-scale agriculture. "Merging the companies under the umbrella of the cooperative is the basis for successful further development."
The gardeners of LGV-Frischgemüse are among the Austrian pioneers in the use of beneficial insects for the protection of the plants. About 25 different beneficial species are now found in the nurseries: from minute organisms to bumblebees, which pollinate the flowers.
The cooperative has been a model of success for 7 decades
In January, 1946, LGV-Frischgemüse was founded. Time and time again the cooperative has been faced with new challenges. But the joint path of the horticultural families, who lean on their own traditions, the cooperation of the cooperative and the highest standards of quality in their vegetables, has made LGV-Frischgemüse an indispensable part of Viennese culture and Austrian grocery business.
About LGV-Frischgemüse:
The cooperative has existed since 1946 and unites 108 horticultural families in Vienna and Lower Austria today. Together, the gardeners produce over 40 different types of vegetables: classics such as tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers and lettuce, but also specialties such as aubergines, chillies, cherry tomatoes, mini cucumbers and many more.
For more information:
Angelika Günther
LGV-Frischgemüse Wien reg.Gen.m.b.H.
T: +43 (0) 1 76069-410
Mail: a.guenther@lgv.at