The melon market is currently in a transitional phase. Overseas volumes are rapidly declining, while Morocco and Spain are preparing to start their seasons. Jacob Akatalan of MG Fruit in Ridderkerk takes stock: "The recent sunny weather has often led to strong melon sales, but that only works if the product is available," he says.
"We've had a rather difficult overseas season, with many delays and numerous quality issues. Shipments from Costa Rica and Panama mostly arrived in an empty market with high prices, but the quality wasn't always optimal. As a result, some customers dropped out, although retail sales remained fairly steady," the importer reflects.
© MG Fruit
"Senegal is currently in the final stretch of the Dumara watermelon season, and Morocco is about to begin its campaign. Spain is also preparing to start up again with all varieties. It remains to be seen how volumes will develop, but there has been enough rainfall, which is a good sign for quality," Jacob continues.
"Selling prices for Dumara melons from Morocco are around €1.80–1.85. The market for Cantaloupe remains very challenging. There's still some supply from overseas and Senegal, with market prices between €16 and €18. Galia and yellow melons are also priced at around €15, and Spanish watermelons are expected to sell for about €1.70–1.80," Jacob said.
As for general market trends, Jacob notes a growing demand for smaller melons. "The exception is among immigrant customers, who tend to have larger families and still prefer the larger watermelons. Additionally, seeded melons continue to be appreciated in certain markets, but more and more customers are now specifically requesting seedless varieties."
For more information:
Jacob Aktalan
MG Fruit
Selderijweg 90-E
2988 DG Ridderkerk
Tel: +31 (0) 180-745474
Mob: +31 612676257
[email protected]
www.mgfruit.nl
