Shipments of fruit with leaves still attached began on 22 October. The crops were destined for local warehouses in southern Italy. Gianni Martucci of Martucci Srl in Massafra, Apulia, is preparing for the new citrus fruit campaign in the Ionian coastal region.
"The first crates of common clementines have been treated with potassium to hasten their ripening, in addition to the Caffin and Spinoso varieties. In these early days of the season, the main distribution channels are Italian warehouses. However, starting next week, we will also begin delivering to France."
© Martucci Srl
The Martucci Company plans to substantially increase its international presence, with forecasts indicating a significant rise in international sales. The expansion will begin with shipments to France and continue with the dispatch of large quantities of brushed and leafless products to Poland, Hungary, and Ukraine around 10 November. The company's strategic focus remains on the Apulian areas of Massafra and Palagiano.
Martucci Srl emphasizes varietal selection and avoids offering excessively early varieties to the market, a decision made after testing the market in recent years. "We have given up varieties such as Clemenruby and Orogros because operators and consumers are not satisfied with their overly dry texture and uneven skin."
© Martucci Srl
The relationship between production levels and perceived scarcity
Gianni Martucci says that, in the Ionian area, the campaign is almost normal. This is unusual since most people are reporting a decrease. "The constant claim of a 30 percent decrease compared to last year has become a pattern. The perception of scarcity is often inaccurate, as evidenced by the abundance of green clementines on the trees. While some farmers have experienced a decrease in yield (e.g., 15 tons per hectare instead of 20) due to aging trees, new plantings and production continually balance this deficit."
Market behavior primarily influenced by anxiety
Despite the quantitative and qualitative aspects of expected production, the sector must contend with a psychological obstacle that seems to have prevailed since 2025: Anxiety. Anxiety has emerged as a key market factor.
Currently, consumers are hesitant to make purchases, a trend previously observed with stone fruit, grapes, and watermelons. "Psychological factors significantly impact the fruit and vegetable industry. The hope for a revival in consumption is also closely linked to positive geopolitical conditions."
For more information:
Martucci Srl
Via Chiatona
74016 Massafra (TA) - Italy
+39 338 2620262
[email protected]
martucci.info
