Despite the fact that purchasing power and consumption have decreased worldwide, the "small fruit" sector is actually counter-trending.
"These fruits are really healthy and very practical, so demand is good. However, there are some difficulties regarding increasing production costs, which are not matched by higher sales prices. This in turn means that there are less margins for producers," says Sara Bellini, communication manager for the Sant'Orsola cooperative.
In terms of volume and value, the situation is not much different from that of the previous year. "With respect to 2012, there was a slight decrease in strawberry production and an increase of small fruit (raspberries and blackberries in particular) of Italian origin."
In 2013, the share of produce destined abroad increased from 8 to 10%. "Exports to Russia increased, and it has become the second foreign market for our products. Germany is still in the first place." Then there are countries in Northern Europe such ad Scandinavia and the Netherlands as well as those in Central Europe like Spain. "We have also worked with the Arab Emirates and China. 90% of the produce though is still destined to the domestic market."
In 2013, the share of produce destined abroad increased from 8 to 10%. "Exports to Russia increased, and it has become the second foreign market for our products. Germany is still in the first place." Then there are countries in Northern Europe such ad Scandinavia and the Netherlands as well as those in Central Europe like Spain. "We have also worked with the Arab Emirates and China. 90% of the produce though is still destined to the domestic market."
"We want all commercial farms part of the Cooperative to obtain the GLOBAL G.A.P. certification, so that environmental impact and the use of chemicals can be reduced and healthier products can be grown."
Sant'Orsola will attend Fruit Logistica 2014 (Berlin, 5th-7th February) Hall 2.2 - Stand C-02 in the "Trentino Sviluppo" area. The chairman of the cooperative Silvio Bertoldi, sales manager Lorenzo Giacomelli, area manager Alessio Conotter and export manager Daniele Visintainer will welcome guests.
"In Berlin we will promote the project started in 2012 to bring customised fridges into supermarkets. The objective is to advertise the brand and preserve fruit perfectly until it is purchased. So far, the volume of produce sold has increased and there is less waste, so we are hoping that it could become the norm in many stores."
In addition, the company is also working on enhancing the packaging. "Our Christmas label was really successful, so much so that we have decided to dress up our products for the most important occasions, the next one will be St. Valentine's Day."
The company asked its Facebook fans to choose among 3 different layouts. "A lot of people voted and the winning design will be used."
Sant'Orsola's fridge and the special packaging for St. Valentine's day will be displayed at Fruit Logistica.
For further informaiton:
Sant'Orsola Soc. Coop. Agricola
Sara Bellini
Via Lagorai 131
38057 Pergine Valsugana (TN)
Tel.: (+39) 0461 518170
Cell.: 335 5642361
Email: sara.bellini@santorsola.com
Web: www.santorsola.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/CoopSantOrsola