After the first arrivals in week 44, the Greek strawberry season is now gradually picking up speed, says Theo Hatzivassiliadis, direct importer and managing director of Hans Kuffer Ltd based at the Munich wholesale market. "Volumes are still relatively tight at the start of the season, but the demand is steadily increasing, not least because the volume pressure from the Netherlands and Belgium is now noticeably decreasing. Normally, Greece is also in direct competition with Egypt in the early sector, but goods from there are not yet being seen, at least in Munich."
Greek strawberries are usually available between November and June and they are exported not only to Germany, but also to the UK and Central Europe. "Significantly more volumes were grown this year, but at the same time growers faced a shortage of harvesters last year, which is why many plots could not be harvested at all. This year's increase in acreage coupled with the shortage of harvesters could become problematic," says Hatzivassiliadis about the current situation.
Greek strawberries of the Samaris brand. Wholesale prices at the beginning of the season are expected to be around last year's levels.
Fortuna & Victory
For the export industry, the first half of the season is by far the most important, the direct importer continues. "Up to and including March, we can usually move a lot of product. After this period, the German strawberry season gradually gets going and then, regional fruit is usually preferred." While many varieties are grown in the Manolada growing region (Peloponnese), Fortuna as well as Victory are still best suited for export abroad, according to Hatzivassiliadis. "You traditionally start with the Fortuna early variety, then from December-January you add the Victory main variety. The latter variety in particular has a very good shelf life, with large berries and beautiful coloration."
Specific forecasts on overall yields are difficult to make at this time, he said. "The weather has been optimal for strawberry growing in the past weeks and months, with temperatures within normal limits. Currently, the crop looks very good and in this respect we are confident about the coming season."
For more information:
Theo Hatzivassiliadis
HANS KUFFER Fruchthandel GmbH
Großmarkthalle München
Mobile: 0162/2923477
Email: th@kuffer24.de
www.kuffer24.de