The current situation
is quite tense at the wholesale market in Karlsruhe. "The Corona crisis was still going on as the Ukraine war started. This was noticeable within the food trade: we still have a loyal customer base that buys from us, but the purchase volume per customer has become smaller and smaller quantities are being purchased more frequently. This uncertainty in the industry is somewhat like a chain reaction, running through the entire supply chain," says Nadir Sahin (r), buyer and seller at the family-owned company of the same name.
At the product level, the effects of the crisis situation are also being felt, Sahin says. "Basic foodstuffs are still being sold, but luxury items are being accessed noticeably less often. We are also curious how this will continue in the coming months." The wholesale market trader also points to the energy crisis. "In terms of greenhouse vegetables, we are largely dependent on suppliers in Belgium and the Netherlands. The weather is still playing along nicely and there is no talk of shortages, but in a few weeks - as soon as it gets colder and the greenhouses are heated as normal- the effects will probably be felt."
Turkish pomegranates
Accordingly, opportunities for other sources -most notably Spain- will reappear, Sahin believes. "In the past few years, Spanish winter production has already become somewhat more important, not least because of affordable prices. In view of the energy problems in Belgium and the Netherlands, it will now be a good sales year for the Spanish. However, we must assume that the Spanish will then also adjust their prices for greenhouse produce at some point."
Sahin has been marketing the established citrus brand 'Der Flieger' since last year.
Encouraging start to the season for Turkish pomegranates
Meanwhile, the Turkish pomegranate season is also in full swing, Sahin continues. "The first deliveries from Turkey arrived at our facility in late September, and the start of the season was very encouraging. Prices at the beginning of the season are slightly lower compared to last year, with a fairly abundant supply situation."
Furthermore, Sahin said the slightly tart Turkish-grown pomegranate has a monopoly position in the market. "Spanish pomegranates are considerably sweeter and therefore are not in direct competition with those from Turkey. This is all the more advantageous for Turkey, as the competition regarding traditional pomegranates has become more fierce in recent years. Italy is catching up strongly in terms of volume, and the same applies to North African countries like Tunisia and Egypt."
For more information:
Nadir Sahin
Sahin Fruchtimport GmbH
Weinweg 43 (Großmarkt)
76137 Karlsruhe
Tel: 0721 961850
Fax: 0721 9618599
[email protected]
www.sahingmbh.de