The time has come for most growers to choose their varieties. Tomato growers who haven't been able to make a decision or who would like to discuss all of the possibilities within the segment, were able to visit the demo day at Rijk Zwaan last week. This was held for the second consecutive year at the Tomato Trial Centre at Leo van Meurs in Kwintsheul.
Ben Zwinkels
During a tour around the wide product range, Marcel Barten explained the new 'Marketing @ Work' section. This is a number of varieties that Rijk Zwaan have developed as a spring board to a solid market position within the speciality segment. The varieties are not yet commercial, but are used to examine the possibilities within the chain. "We have offered a number of varieties which leads us to be seen as a 'speciality producer', explains Marcel. "Of course we still carry our high quality loose and vine varieties, but we would like to further expand our knowledge into other species and markets. With a few striking developments such as the pink vine tomato, the midi-chequered vine tomato and the mini-beef tomato; we have some good cards to continue to build a strong hand. We also notice that growers and the trade are appreciating this more and more. They also want to adapt to the demand for a flavourful and distinctive product."