Gerrit-Jan Roza (left) and Argentinian producer Diego Iglesias (right).
"The supply from Argentina and South Africa is still arriving smoothly. Compared to last year, we have a greater volume available. Back then, we suffered from bad weather conditions, but so far this year, both the weather and the harvest conditions have been good. The program continues until the end of April. As it stands now, we are getting a nice volume every week." The acreage devoted to Hokkaido pumpkins has doubled over the past year to 120 hectares. "At present, 60% of the production is already under contracts. That means there is still room for more sales."
After the Argentinian and South African pumpkins, the Israeli product will follow from mid-April. These are grown in the Arabah desert using drip irrigation. "Thanks to this new project, we have access to Israeli products earlier than in previous years," explains Gerrit-Jan. The company aims to guarantee a smooth transition to the new product. There is consequently an overlap of two weeks.
At the distribution centre in Lelystad, the supply is washed, sorted and eventually classified by quality. "The pumpkins can be supplied in any packaging format and, if desired, they can include a label." From this centre, the company supplies retailers (65%) and organic specialty stores (35%). "Germany is a large market, but there is also plenty of demand from France, Spain, Belgium and the Netherlands. Last year, new IFS and BRC-certified facilities were built on location in Argentina to process second class quality pumpkins into IQF. This allows you to have a better selection for the fresh market. "There is demand for IQF and it goes without saying that this contributes to improve the crop's profitability," concludes Gerrit-Jan.
From 8 to 10 February, the company will be present at Fruit Logistica in Berlin (Hall 5.2/B-06).
For more information:
Gerrit-Jan Roza
Bio Freshi Produce B.V.
IABC 5102
4814 RN Breda