"Netherlands: "Large supplies, difficult price formation for strawberries"

Strawberry volumes have risen dramatically in the last few weeks and a lot of kilos have been auctioned off at the Hoogstraten Auction. This was reported by Raf van Rooy, a seller at the auction. "Due to the high numbers and relatively low demand, the prices are a bit low. The average per 500 grams is around 80 cent to 1.10 at the moment."

The season started later, and due to the cold, the volumes at auction were really behind in comparison to last season. "It is now catching up and I expect that we will be ahead within the next two weeks," says Raf. Despite the large volumes and lower price formation, the seller is feeling optimistic about the upcoming weeks. "The volumes will gradually decrease - which is advantageous- and because of the good quality I think that the prices will increase. In terms of export, large amounts are being sent to France and southern Europe where the market is better. The domestic demand should also increase with better, especially sunnier, weather."

"All and all, it's been difficult, but sooner or later the market should get better again. A substantial production with good quality strawberries is expected next week. The protected crop will cease in the weeks that follow. The volumes will then be back to the usual level."

For more information:
Raf van Rooy
Veiling Hoogstraten
Loenhoutseweg 59
Hoogstraten - België
Tel: +32 3 3400233
Fax: +32 3 3147844
www.veilinghoogstraten.be