The Christmas period is usually one of the most important months of the year for the major suppliers in the domestic tourist areas. On the island of Usedom, many winter tourists are welcomed. Specialized fruit wholesaler, Insel, prepares itself for the approaching Christmas business, with tropical fruits from all over the world, among other things.
Owner Emin Doganay in the company warehouse
Snake fruit from the Hamburg wholesale market
Currently, father and son Donagay are to be found on the Hamburg wholesale market three times a week, in search of new and unknown fruit exotics. "At the moment we have Papaya, Pitahaya, Carambole and Physalis in our range," says the junior manager. For the major supplier, the tourist seasons are the most important periods of the year. "We supply about 80 percent of local restaurateurs and hotels and therefore we are certainly noticing that demand in the summer and in December is large."
In addition to the existing exotics, new fruits are appearing in the company warehouse every year. "We currently have snake fruit in our assortment, a round, slightly sour fruit from South America. We discovered the fruit two years ago, and although it is quite expensive, we find that the customer's enthusiasm for it is great."
Snake fruit and Pitahaya: Two fruits that sell quickly at Christmas time
Late start of the Christmas sales
Even in the field of classic tropical fruits, there are new varieties that are establishing themselves. "Thai mangoes are selling very well," said Donagay. "This variety is a bit sweeter and smaller than traditional mangoes. Many hotels include this fruit in their special menus. On the other hand, we must be careful that the exotics are not too expensive. Up until five years ago, it was mainly upscale restaurateurs who demanded exotics. Meanwhile, we have to say that demand has increased, but prices have gone down."
Furthermore, the classic Christmas business starts later each year, says Doganay. "We are noticing that it really only starts in the last few days before Christmas or even around New Year's Eve. That's why we have to keep our inventories down so we can ensure continuous freshness."
For more information:
Insel Groß- und Einzelhandel
Inhaber Emin Doganay
Seestraße 15, 17424 Seebad Heringsdorf
Telefon: 038378 / 33207
Telefax: 038378 / 33208
E-Mail: info@inselhandel.de
www.insel-gross-einzelhandel.de