It is Ramadan, and for many traders that has a serious influence on sales. “Normally Muslims consume many vegetables, but during Ramadan they fast during the day. One of our main products is iceberg lettuce, which we usually supply to sandwich and kebab shops. Because of Ramadan, only about half, or less, is being bought now, because the average European does not eat that much iceberg lettuce,” according to trader Eddy van Hoof. “Prices have also dropped significantly, and are now around 1.50 per box.”
Asparagus
Van Hoof also trades in asparagus. “Yesterday we saw a recovery in price. This has been very low for a number of weeks, causing many cultivators to stop harvesting. Supply is lower now, and currently the best quality is sold at about five Euro.” Traditionally the season ends 24 June. “Yet many cultivators stopped harvesting earlier. They would rather see the prices they were given at the beginning of the season. I don't always think it is a good decision to stop earlier. They hired their employees, mostly Polish people, for a certain period. If commitments are not met, they will not return next year.”
Increase foreign traders
Sales for Van Hoof occur at the Mabru, the wholesaler’s market in Brussels, in Hall F239 in the warehouse. Van Hoof thinks it is remarkable that the number of ‘foreigners’ is increasing. “About 14 Belgian traders are left at the Mabru, the others are all from abroad. When a space becomes available, usually someone from another country takes it.”
VHL BVBA
Werkhuizen kaai 22-24
1000 Brussels