"The season is just starting, so we're assessing the market situation. We see good interest in Belgian apples and pears," says Marc Evrard, Commercial Director at Belgian Fruit Valley (BFV), which focuses on Belgian top fruit exports. "The harvests for both apples and pears were excellent, with very competitive pricing. We can, thus, work out interesting, high-quality programs to encourage consumers all over the world to buy more fruit."
© Belgian Fruit Valley
Marc says the downside of competitive export prices, though, is lower grower prices. "But we hope to boost consumption so there's more balance and growers are also satisfied," he says. That is important to Marc. "In the long run, due to their climates, Belgium and the Netherlands will remain the top European pear producers. Sales and satisfactory prices, also for growers, are our vital responsibility."
More pear trees are being planted elsewhere, but according to Marc, local conditions are not always conducive to growing quality products. "Poland, for example, is planting more trees, but there are uncertainties around the climate, and winters are often too cold. That's not beneficial to pear trees. However, every pear produced elsewhere is, in principle, competition," he explains.
© Belgian Fruit Valley
"But so are, say, kiwis and bananas. Consumers who eat bananas don't eat pears at the same time." Marc also notes that less is being grown in Southern Europe. "European pear cultivation's center of gravity is noticeably shifting to Belgium and the Netherlands," he points out.
Here, quality is vital, says Marc: "We must build on that, and never lose sight of it." Belgian pears are increasingly finding their way into Europe. He says after 13 years of convincing German shoppers of the quality of Conference pears through tastings and other activities, these pears are now available throughout Germany. "You need good cooperation in all areas to achieve that; ultimately, it's all about teamwork."
© Belgian Fruit Valley
Because, says Marc, entering an unknown market involves several factors. "To succeed, we must focus fully on quality. That's supported by the correct volumes and sufficient marketing and promotions that go with introducing a new type of fruit." There are various other challenges to overcome, too. "Even if tariffs don't increase, that's something you must heed," Marc concludes, adding that the economic situation is affecting long-distance exports.
Belgian Fruit Valley (BFV)
Montenakenweg 800
3800 St. Truiden, België
+32 11 69 34 11
[email protected]
www.bfv.be
