Raf Rutten will join BelOrta from 17 November. The experienced sector specialist served as sales manager at Carolus Trees for many years, but has now decided to join the BelOrta team. "A wonderful opportunity to take on the commercial side of the sector, which appeals to me enormously," he said.
© Raf Rutten
Raf, a long-time fruit grower himself, decided to join Carolus Trees in 2009 alongside his ongoing work as a grower. "I started working there with great interest and motivation. As a fruit grower, I always wanted to understand what was happening across Europe. Which varieties are on the market, which systems work, and how the trade operates. I was given that opportunity at Carolus, and I am still grateful for it to this day. But after 16 years, I want to challenge myself again in a different role within the fruit sector."
At BelOrta, Raf says he can fully embrace that commercial side. In his new position, he will act as the link between fruit growers and the trade. "My job is to oversee the entire fruit sales process. From sorting and packaging to transport and marketing to traders, supermarkets, or other international customers. It is all about marketing growers' products in the best possible way while seizing commercial opportunities. I will also attend international fairs such as Fruit Logistica and Interpoma, where I will be involved in discovering new varieties and following trends and developments. Here, I expect to make a valuable contribution thanks to the international contacts I have built up over the years."
"Even so, it will also remain a journey of discovery for me, and it will not always be easy. The fruit trade is a world where one must stand strong, but I am not afraid of that. As far as I am concerned, I would rather start today than tomorrow. It is a great opportunity to build on my skills while optimising the trade and marketing of quality fruit. It will undoubtedly be a challenge, but it excites me. I would also like to take this opportunity to thank all my friends, customers, and contacts I have built up over the years for the trust and great conversations."
For more information:
Raf Rutten
BelOrta
Mechelsesteenweg 120
B-2860 Sint-Katelijne-Waver, Belgium
+32 488 62 51 30
[email protected]
www.belorta.be
