"Spain: "We'll have 30% less plums but we expect a smooth campaign"

There will be 30% less plums in this campaign because of weather complications. As a result of this, and because of other reasons, the market hasn't had many plums until now. "Prices have been good so far and expectations are good considering that there is a smaller supply. We expect it will be a smooth campaign with positive sales and prices," he said.

Land Fruit was founded in January 2015 by a group of producers and exporters that had thirty years of experience in the sector. "The first year we sold about 3 million kilos of fruit from Sevilla, 8 million kilos from Murcia, and 12 million kilos from Extremadura. Our facilities in Extremadura didn't have the capacity to work these volumes and things were very difficult, but exciting, for us. This year we are finishing expanding our facilities after investing 3.5 million euro. It's been curious to see 200 people working in the facilities next to 200 construction workers."

In this plant, which is located in Don Benito, Badajoz, Land Fruit works on its own production of asparagus, stone fruit, and persimmon. Moreover, the company also expects to sell tangerines, pineapples, mangoes, or kiwis.

The executives' philosophy is different from the one they had in other companies. "Before, we had many farmers and were moving much higher volumes. Now, we have a selection of farmers and customers so we can provide them with a higher quality and better service. We believe this is the best way to differentiate ourselves from our competition," said Antonio J. Chavero.

Land Fruit has registered to export stone fruit to China, which could start next year. "It will be difficult for us to certify our facilities this year because we have not finished them yet, but we will have everything ready for next year. We already have an agent that speaks Chinese, and they are not easy to find!," he joked. 

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