Demand for Kumato gradually growing

He indicates there is definitely interest in this special tomato. “Belgian consumers prefer this variety. Besides, various Southern European countries ask for the Kumato. Germany is also growing as a sales market, and a part is sent to the Scandinavian countries. Before the boycott, Russia was also an important buyer. In general, demand is gradually growing. If Russia were still a buyer, it would have been a larger product in terms of volume. Now it is more exclusive.”

Up till now, production was always between March and December. “This year, we are testing them under illumination for the first time, because we received responses from our customers that the flavour of the Spanish is not the same as that of the Belgian. It is a very difficult strain to cultivate, so we are very expectant to see how it will experience the illumination.”

Kumato is available in packaging of 300 to 500 grammes. “The smallest are mostly bought by people who are just starting to use it. This is to convince people with a smaller packaging, so that they can get to know the product. We also service certain catering parties with boxes of six kilograms.” As regards price, Kumato is in a different segment. “Taken over an entire year, we have an average price of 1.25 for 500 grammes, packaged product. This means prices in shops fluctuate around 1.85 to 2 euro.”

What is Kumato’s exact colour? “The tomatoes colour from the inside out, so we harvest them when they are light brown or green. The colour then quickly turns brown-reddish when they ripen. Kumato has an intense flavour when compared to other tomatoes of this kind. Besides, it is also distinctive in its remarkable colour. Consumers who buy this product are people who are convinced of its characteristics and we see these people return to it time and again. We are therefore feeling very positive about the future of this tomato!”