There is a "concentrated" yet increasing production for Sicilian company Il Ferrisi, which only markets two varieties of tomatoes- Costoluto (Raf) and Cuore di Bue (Beefsteak). The production is around 40 tonnes and 200 tonnes per year respectively.
Fortunato Ferrisi and Carmelo Giuffrida (T18 sales manager, distributor of Ferrisi tomatoes) in the company stand at Macfrut 2013.
"Despite the complex political and economical situation, 2013 has been a rather encouraging year for us. In fact, we increased our production areas and we expect to increase yields by 40%, as the markets in Germany and Switzerland should be able to absorb the produce. Unfortunately, Italy is facing some difficulties," explains Fortunato Ferrisi.
Cuore di Bue tomato and, below, Costoluto tomatoes.
Ferrisi took part in Macfrut 2013 by adhering to a project developed by the Sicily region. Not everything went well, though, "as is always the case with institutions". Ferrisi explains that "Macfrut is a trade fair during which producers meet buyers through a simple appointment system. The structure was nice and functional, but they had forgotten to register the companies, so we didn't have any appointments, as no one knew we were there. However, things went well for us despite this, our personal experience was positive and we managed to strengthen the relations we had established the previous year. We noticed there were more foreign buyers, whereas there were less Italians than in previous years."