The months of May and the beginning of June were busy times for the vegetable sprout grower and supplier Kiem-X. According to owner Wim Bouden it was an active period. "We have two annual peaks, around Christmas and in May. It's usually good weather in May, and there are a lot of holidays in Belgium, including Pentecost. A lot of communions are held and of course we celebrate mother's and father's day in these months. There was also Ascension Day, which was the first sunny long weekend."
He indicates that these months are great for the sales of vegetable sprouts, especially when it's good weather. "There are often barbecues during and around these celebrations and a lot of salads and appetisers are eaten. This regularly includes vegetable sprouts. Parties need healthy snacks. May in particular was a good month."
Growing with customers
Wim says that they built up a steady customer base since the start. "Kiem-X has been around since 2006 and we have been able to grow with our customers from the start. We mainly supply to wholesalers who are customers of Veiling Roeselare and BelOrta. Starting September this year we will also be supplying a second wholesale chain. We don't often add new customers. I believe this is good, as we are able to grow with our customers." The price of vegetable sprouts is dependent on the seed suppliers. "If they have less production, you have to buy on time. Or you will have a season of shortages."
Classics do best
Kiem-X offers around 10 types of vegetable sprouts: the classics. "We are the only vegetable sprout grower who is connected to the auctions and carry the Flandria logo. Now and then we will bring our new products, but in general the classics do best. The five most popular varieties are the leek sprouts, alfalfa sprouts, beetroot sprouts, asparagus peas and red radish sprouts. As it is difficult to bring new products onto the market, we focus on the traditional vegetable sprouts. I expect little change in this over the next few years." Kiem-X mainly grows conventional vegetable sprouts. "A small share of our production is organic, but there are already multiple suppliers of this in Belgium. This is why we prefer to stick with the regular production."
Wim looks towards the near future with positivity. "It will be less busy, by around 10 to 15%. The demand always reduces a little during the holiday period. It will reduce further in September, but we expect another peak around Christmas and New Year."
Kiem-X recently set up a new website. Check it out at www.kiem-x.be
Wim Bouden
Kiem-X
Peperhol 6
9850 Nevele - Belgium
M: +32 472-703954
F: +32 933-62325
[email protected]
www.kiem-x.be
Kiem-X recently set up a new website. Check it out at www.kiem-x.be
Wim Bouden
Kiem-X
Peperhol 6
9850 Nevele - Belgium
M: +32 472-703954
F: +32 933-62325
[email protected]
www.kiem-x.be
