Van Onselen explains that the growers of Sweetpoint make sure that there is a constant supply all year round. "At the moment we estimate we will produce more peppers than there is demand for, we make sure to remove about 3 to 4 kgs each square metre. We cut these from the plant at an early stage before they are fully grown. In this way we control the supply exactly. There is absolutely no over- production. In this way we make our arrangements with the trade and supermarkets. We see our opportunities in regulating production and sales. This sets one's company at rest, never problems with staff shortages because of a peak in production and prices are controlled by ourselves."
“At the moment there is plenty of supply available. Everybody knows that. It is a pity, however, that this is at the expense of the grower. It is a great pity that a lot of trading is below the cost price. If production was regulated a little better then the future would look a lot better for the Dutch growers as well," van Onselen says. "Our vision is not focussed on attaining an as high as possible production, but on obtaining a healthy return. We would rather produce 15 kgs at an acceptable price than 30 kgs under cost price."
According to Bart the fault does not lie with the supermarkets or the trade. "We should not leave the problems with the trade and the supermarket. They are absolutely not to blame for the bad prices. It is easy to make good arrangements with a trader or a supermarket. They also benefit from a constant, regular supply and a satisfied grower. That makes it a lot easier for them as well, because all of us know what to expect."