Belgian wholesaler Frank Valckenier, a soft fruit specialist, is currently waiting on spring. "We're waiting for the local small soft fruits to restart. We're selling, but, especially with our specialty, nice spring weather brings an increased demand."
"Strawberry prices are quite reasonable for this time of year. However, a box presently sells for €6 or €7. Compare that to two boxes for €6 in the summer. Then you can see why people rather choose something else now."
Frank sells mostly Dutch and Belgian strawberries. "Flavor-wise, they're practically identical. And Belgians often prefer these over the Spanish ones. They're also of fairly good quality. They taste good, but demand leaves a bit to be desired. At the moment, most are being used for decorating or processing. Though we occasionally sell an extra box because of Valentine's Day," he says.
He says this quiet time is not unexpected. "It happens every year. Our summer season simply differs from our winter one. Buyers still take apples and pears because you can store those. But small soft fruit must be very fresh. January, February, and March are transitional months. After that, the weather improves. That's what I vehemently hope, anyway."
What is unusual is the sudden drop in raspberry demand, says Frank. "Raspberry sales were going pretty well until last week. But since Saturday, suddenly no one wants them anymore. Is it a dip? I don't know. It could change tomorrow or by the weekend. We're not worried though and are optimistic about the months ahead," he concludes.
For more information:
Frank Valckenier
Valckenier BVBA
10 Kerkhof Street
1760, Roosdaal-Pamel, Belgium
Tel: +32 (0) 475 682 125
Email: [email protected]
