In late May, open-field cherries, produced in Dalian, China, began to enter the market in batches. Favorable weather conditions and an increase in planting areas have led to a significant rise in cherry production this year.
"This year's cherry yield is the highest in recent years, and the fruit size is also the largest we've seen recently. With the increase in production, prices have dropped, and the purchase price is about 25% lower than last year," said Mr. Lu Lin from Yantai Xitian Farm Co., Ltd. Yantai cherries are the main product of this company this season.
Xitian Farm primarily supplies high-end markets, including corporations and star-rated hotels. According to Lu, since the launch of open-field cherries, the purchasing power in the high-end market has been robust, with large enterprises showing the most significant increase in demand: "Enterprises are mainly purchasing cherries as business gifts. Over the past two years, many companies have actively explored new development directions and carried out related promotions, thus boosting the business gift market."
"Large enterprises have higher standards for cherry quality and brand, while small and medium-sized enterprises focus more on cost performance, in addition to quality. Overall, the sales volume of second-grade cherries is larger."
Lu highlighted the characteristics of several popular cherry varieties: "Our company primarily sells Meizao, Shuijing, Lapins, and other varieties. Meizao cherries are large, sweet, and firm, making them suitable for long-distance transportation. Shuijing cherries have thin skins and are very sweet. Lapins are similar to Meizao but have the advantage of a later ripening period."
Yantai Xitian Farm Co., Ltd., operating under the "Xitian Farm" brand, mainly sells Yantai cherries and apples. Their customer base spans across Beijing, Qingdao, Hangzhou, and Guangzhou.
Lu Lin