Many Dutch cabbage growers are currently harvesting for storage. "That means a more limited availability of hands for a while, but that's normal for the time of year. That shortage is, however, also a major point of attention in our sector," says Martin Bolhuis of Tuindersbelang, a brokerage firm that organizes central sales for some 60 cabbage growers.
The demand is already good this early in the season. "We're doing nice trade. Demand from southern Europe is especially unusual, added to our usual day trade. That's creating some extra buzz. Germany is participating well, too. Prices are at €0.32 for sizes 9-10 (including packaging) for both white and red cabbage. The small sizes are priced higher still, so we're not complaining."
Martin hopes cabbage prices will hold up. "It's somewhat dependent on how quickly the growers get the harvest in, but some have work until Christmas. We're keeping up well with the early and fall varieties cutting, and the storage cabbage yields are good overall. In the Netherlands, nothing peculiar is happening in that regard this season," he concludes.
For more information:
Martin Bolhuis
Tuindersbelang
3 Dergmeerweg
1749 VA, Warmenhuizen, NL
Tel: +31 (0) 226 391 000
Email: tuindersbelang@hetnet.nl
Website: www.tuindersbelang.nl