"The main problem in our sector is fragmentation, an issue which was also discussed during Fruit Logistica in Berlin," reports Gabriele Ferri, sales manager for Opera."When there are only a few buyers but plenty of sellers, there can be only one consequence: producers won't make a profit."
According to the manager, the progress made by the creation of Opera, which saw a collaboration of both private businesses and cooperatives, constitutes a potential model for other products too. Talking about the newly established "People of Sicily", he said: "if businesses believe in it, the form is irrelevant. The important thing is to define who is selling, who to sell to and at what conditions. Most of all, producer profits must be respected."
According to the manager, the progress made by the creation of Opera, which saw a collaboration of both private businesses and cooperatives, constitutes a potential model for other products too. Talking about the newly established "People of Sicily", he said: "if businesses believe in it, the form is irrelevant. The important thing is to define who is selling, who to sell to and at what conditions. Most of all, producer profits must be respected."
Comparing the Italian and the Spanish fresh produce sectors, Ferri stressed how Spain started from a much more aggregated base, "which was reflected on a commercial level. Fragmentation was never a problem because it never existed. In addition, Spain also has lower operating costs."
The commercial season of Opera pears
"Opera is an interesting player on a global level. Demand gets livelier when it introduces something new."
"The fruit should be available until April/early May. Sales are good, stocks are lower than expected but we have enough produce for all our clients. Luckily, domestic consumption is increasing in many countries, which is good for our sector. Although local produce is becoming increasingly popular, imported fruit is still doing well if the quality is good."
The commercial season of Opera pears
"Opera is an interesting player on a global level. Demand gets livelier when it introduces something new."
"The fruit should be available until April/early May. Sales are good, stocks are lower than expected but we have enough produce for all our clients. Luckily, domestic consumption is increasing in many countries, which is good for our sector. Although local produce is becoming increasingly popular, imported fruit is still doing well if the quality is good."
In 2015/16, Opera and its partners handled 209,255 tons of pears, supplying them to over 1,000 clients in 48 nations, with a 25% increase in exports compared to the previous year and a turnover of €151.4 million. The most popular variety remains Abate Fetel, but the assortment is currently being improved.