For years, Kerkdriel-based Verhoeckx has combined mushroom and fruit trading. Brent Verhoeckx is responsible for fruit sales, which at the growing and trading company consists exclusively of apples and pears. "We've had a good season, both in terms of volumes and prices," he says.
While the trading company mainly supplies supermarkets with its mushroom sales, the customer base for fruit is primarily made up of market vendors and wholesalers. "There is some overlap, but market traders sell much more top fruit than mushrooms," Brent notes.
The pear range at Verhoeckx consists exclusively of Conference. The apple range includes the varieties Elstar, Jonagold, Rode Boskoop, and Wellant, supplemented by Golden Delicious. "Our customers rarely request other varieties. However, we are selective about which Elstar and Jonagold mutants we use."
Expanding the fruit range is not on the agenda for the trading company. "You see many top fruit companies also growing cherries in the summer, but we stick to top fruit—we are fully equipped for that," Brent says. "And if it suits us, we expand our own cultivation a bit. For example, we've just planted another new orchard. The combination of our family-run cultivation and fruit from fellow growers means we have a wide selection of lots to choose from."
Last year, Verhoeckx invested in Greefa's SmartPackr. "We're very happy with it. This packing robot quickly saves two to three people and packs the apples with the blush facing up and the stems aligned in the same direction, which improves presentation," Brent says. He expects a smooth transition into the new apple season. "Stocks are no longer large, so nothing is standing in the way of a good start to the new season."
For more information:
Brent Verhoeckx
Verhoeckx Fruit
Hoorzik 25b
5331 KJ Kerkdriel
Tel: +31 (0)418 55 34 08
Mob: +31 (0) 627513337
[email protected]
www.verhoeckxenzn.nl/