At the beginning of February, the first greenhouse asparagus was harvested once again. For many, it is a highly anticipated moment, but the high prices in the first few weeks can still be a deterrent. "It's always nice to start again, but we began with prices around 45 euros per kilo. At those prices, sales are slow, and there's always the fear of being left with excess stock," says Ellen Sebrechts of the Antwerp-based wholesaler of the same name.
"In the meantime, prices have dropped by about 20 euros per kilo, which makes things a bit easier to work with," she continues. "Volumes are still very limited at the moment, so as they increase, prices will likely continue to fall in the coming weeks. On Monday, I already noticed that auction prices were starting to decline. Moreover, I understand that two more growers in Belgium will begin harvesting next week, so things will really pick up soon."
"On the other hand, sales don't really take off until after the spring break. That's next week for us, and since many people will be away, it won't help sales. Once they return, I expect business to really pick up from next Friday. By then, we'll also be receiving more supplies. For example, our vegetable buyer, Roger De Wachter, told me that in 2-3 weeks, Dutch asparagus from heated soil will also become available. This will further diversify supply and varieties, allowing us to offer a broader selection."
Still, Ellen notes that customers are eager to get started. "We're really in a transition period now. Certain winter products are no longer available, and recently, vegetable quality from Spain has been problematic. As a result, we are getting more inquiries from customers looking for something new—something that can help them stand out with special products. In that regard, asparagus is the perfect choice."
There are high hopes for white asparagus, but Ellen explains that the green variety will take a bit longer. "The Belgian green asparagus seems to be delayed compared to other years. However, we do have green asparagus from Germany, and we've also had very nice Spanish ones. Additionally, we sometimes work with Mexican products, and the first French asparagus are now arriving in small quantities. However, French asparagus is a bit harder to sell in Belgium. Overall, green asparagus tend to be less popular—they're a bit more expensive, so they remain a niche product for true enthusiasts."
For more information:
Ellen Sebrechts
Sebrechts Groenten & Fruit 
Kielsbroek 4
2020 Antwerp, Belgium
+32 32374192
[email protected]
www.sebrechtsfruit.be
