The chicory market is having a year of extremes. "What's happening right now is really bizarre; I've never seen anything like it. But despite the high prices, it's certainly not enjoyable. We can supply our regular customers, but only with great difficulty," says Dennis Blankendaal of Frysk Witlof from Sexbierum.
"However, we have no choice but to calmly wait for the new season. Fortunately, we've been able to sow about 90%, but the outcome remains to be seen with these wet weather conditions. Hopefully, we can start setting up the roots around weeks 37/38. By the end of June, we'll have a better idea of where things stand."
"Prices are extremely high. Recently, the price has even hit 3 euros. I don't see that changing anytime soon. For example, it's barely possible to plant broccoli, causing gaps in the vegetable supply everywhere. Thankfully, the buyers are understanding; they see what's happening with the entire vegetable supply. We try to fulfill the regular agreements as much as possible, showing that you can be a partner even in tough times."
"We also sowed more chicory. We are working with many new farmers, including from Germany, but they all still need to get the hang of cultivation. Given the current weather conditions, I don't expect an abundant harvest this year either. We're starting with new chicory roots much earlier than in previous years, which will require a lot of additional land. All in all, we'll just about make it through the year, provided the root harvest is successful. I therefore expect that the fixed prices will only continue to rise towards the coming season."
For more information:
Dennis Blankendaal
Frysk-Witlof
Frjentsjerterdyk 12
8855 XC Sexbierum
T: (0517) 59 27 72
M: (06) 83 98 64 24
[email protected]l
www.frysk-witlof.nl