This year, for the second time, BelOrta has brought Belgian plums onto the market. For the BelOplum, this cooperative is partnering with six growers this year. These farmers have planted these plum trees in their orchards. They want to diversify Belgian fruit cultivation. "We now have access to eight hectares of plum trees. These should produce a modest 30 tons," says Miguel Demaeght, BelOrta's head of fruit sales division.
Plums almost wholly disappeared from Belgian farms a few years ago but BelOrta now wants to reintroduce this fruit variety. "It's not only cost-effective for growers to further diversify. They can do so with the introduction or reintroduction of certain new fruit and vegetable varieties. Plums, depending on the variety, are harvested just before, or after, apples and pears."
"That makes it more attractive for pickers too. Many of these laborers come from Eastern Europe. It's better to give them work for a few months rather than two to three weeks. That's the case at pear orchards that only have Conferences. Different growers will then have expansive ranges. These will include apples, pears, plums, and cherries," explains Miguel.
This year's 30 tons isn't a huge volume. Miguel, however, points out that this is not the sector's only immediate solution. "We mustn't forget we're one cooperative that can help its farmers in this manner. We can market these small volumes as a niche product. These plums go to the Belgian retail channel. We also pack and sort the plums according to our clients' wishes."
There's an added advantage for BelOrta. It can use this new fruit variety to offer a wider assortment. "That allows us to continue growing toward becoming a one-stop-shop in the sector. We can also focus more on consumers' demand for a better flavor and experience," says Demaerght.
These plums are tasty - that becomes clear when we visit an orchard with Miguel. These plums had all been harvested and were on their way to the packing station. "But, not to worry," concludes Miguel, "harvesting continues until late September."
For more information:
BelOrta
Miguel Demaeght
59 Kernielerweg
3840, Borgloon, Belgium
Tel: +32 (0) 126 70 210
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.belorta.be
