"The pear market began 2023 with a bang," says Mark Vernooij of the Dutch export company, Urfruit. "Prices started rising right at the start of the new year and are currently at healthy levels. Demand is coming from almost all over Europe. There are quite a few promotions, but outside of those, regular volumes are definitely increasing too."
"Our Lucas pears are all divided up, and the available market volumes plummeted in January. In the last week, good Lucases' prices have risen slightly. We've also entered the final phase with our Doyenné du Comice pears. Sales and prices have been good all season. It seems Doyenne de Comice production in the Netherlands and Belgium is well balanced with European demand," Mark explains.
"Conference pears, including the small sizes, are in good demand, and we hope that continues. The quality and shelf life challenges will come, especially at the end of the season. Most of the last-picked pears have found their way to consumers. Though, some batches may have been harvested too late."
"The intended 'extra price' is now being realized, but the rejection percentage and high cooling costs are completely obliterating that," continues Mark. "So, this year, it's vital to monitor the fruit well and act quickly and appropriately when there are alarming deviations."
"As said earlier in the season, the hot summer means the pears have high sugar content, ensuring a sublime taste experience. We, thus, think some of the huge European demand is thanks to how great the pears taste. Shelf life is more limited this season, which forces us all to have a good turnover rate," Mark concludes.
Urfruit will have a stand at Fruit Logistica, Hall 3.2, stand D-20.
For more information:
Mark Vernooij
Urfruit
45 Marketing
6921 RE, Duiven, NL
Tel: +31 (0) 575 472 473
Email: m.vernooij@urfruit.nl
Website: www.urfruit.nl