The apple season was also discussed during Fruit Attraction. While the lack of produce means prices will probably increase, it is still impossible to know by how much. Gerhard Dichgans, director of the Vog consortium, reported that "the market has started 'waking up' from its slumber. It was slower also due to the availability of produce from the southern hemisphere. Countries like Italy and Germany are actually in a frenzy at the moment because the produce is lacking."
The risk is to not have enough apples during the second part of the campaign. Producer prices started with acceptable quotations and consumers are registering increases already in this period. "In Germany, prices went from €1.99 to €2.99/kg. Not everywhere and not for all varieties, but there have been increases."
Harvesting of the varieties producing the most quantities is almost over and the lower volumes available have been confirmed. We will have to wait to understand just how much produce is lacking, only then will the market level. The only worry is due to the fact that consumers might not want or might not be able to afford to pay more for apples.
Dichgans also reports that Pink Lady apples have ripened 5 days earlier than usual. Commercialisation will start in early November and quality seems to be excellent.
Dichgans also reports that Pink Lady apples have ripened 5 days earlier than usual. Commercialisation will start in early November and quality seems to be excellent.
Another source reports that the harvesting of the Pink Lady variety is 15 days early. While the difference is not that important, we will have to see when sales will start and what strategies the various groups will adopt.