Netherlands: “Sauerkraut in big demand”

There seems to be an undeniable correlation between cold weather and the sales of sauerkraut. Gerrie Groot of G. Kramer & Zonen in Zuid-Scharwoude, Holland, confirms the connection. “Traditionally, we do more business when the ‘R’ creeps in the month. August was quiet, but September, October, November – those are the months.” Kramer & Zonen has been selling sauerkraut for over 120 years.

“We are very busy at the moment,” Gerrie says. “Most people want some solid, healthy food on the table when temperatures drop, and sauerkraut is by far the cheapest.” The market for cabbage, Gerrie notices, is better than it used to be. “Last year prices were low. Growers basically begged us to buy their produce. This season, with export at full capacity, it’s a completely different story. But that’s fine, if the industry is healthy, everyone benefits in the end.”

At G. Kramer & Zonen, the only thing changing is the volumes. “We used to sell sauerkraut in barrels; only about 20% was shipped in small quantities. Now it’s the reverse: Only 10% is in barrels and 90% goes in small volumes.”

More information:
G. Kramer & Zonen B.V.
Voorburggracht 141
1722 GC Zuid-Scharwoude
Tel.: 0031 226 31 24 26
Fax: 0031 226 32 00 93
Gerrie.Groot@gkz.nl