"Price difference between small and large Jonagold over 60 cents"

The top fruit season hasn't yet burst loose at wholesaler De Blaeij, active in Holland and Belgium. According to salesman Perry Verstraaten there is already a lot of supply. "But the sales aren't yet optimal. There are still growers picking, and the people who help pick often take some home at the end of the day. This doesn't help the retail, as they usually buy those apples or pears in the shops. It's a general trend during this time of the year. It is also quieter as it's All Saints Day in Belgium."

Large Jonagold not doing well
The trader indicates that the prices are generally dramatic for this time of year. The Elstar and Cox have good prices. But a lot of large Jonagolds are not doing well at all. It really is a disaster. The large sizes are stopped at 22 cents. The smaller Jonagold are at a better level: they get 80 to 90 cents. There aren't as many small ones this season, so perhaps the consumer will have to learn to eat larger Jonagolds. But we'll have to convince them first."

Good quality
"There has been a slight increase in the prices of pears since the middle of last week. But before that it was really bad. I think it is partly due to the fact that the export hasn't really got going yet. I've heard exporters talk about problems with Russia." He says that the quality of the products this year are fantastic. "Although we only really sell Class I. Class II doesn't really fit into our programme." Last year's season was completely different. "There were smaller volumes and the prices were excellent until the end. I hope the prices of apples and pears go up. Trading with only low prices isn't fun. We need to make some kind of margin."

Belgian like small sizes of Cox
In the area of consumption the trader can see a difference between Holland and Belgium. "Jonagold is most popular among the customers we sell to in Holland but they also like a nice Elstar. Small in size, green underside and a red blush are the main requirements. The price comes second among Belgian buyers, as long as it looks good. They also like small sizes of Cox in Belgium."

De Blaeij now has a revamped website. Check it out at www.deblaeij.nl

For more information:
Perry Verstraaten
Groothandel de Blaeij
Lange Reksestraat 8
4538 AZ Terneuzen (Netherlands)
Brugse Steenweg 7/40
9940 Evergem (België)
T +31(0)115-613234
F +31(0)115-694943
[email protected]
www.deblaeij.nl