Belgian top fruit prices have been strong since the harvest. "Pear prices have been fairly stable in recent weeks. Wholesale prices for unsorted fruit are between €0.90 and €1.15. Demand is noticeably quite broad, with almost all European countries participating, but it's not hectic," says Aart Blom from FruitPartners Blom, a fruit trading company in Belgium.
"Those prices should remain as is for the coming weeks. The quality pear prices may rise slightly from mid-May. Such batches are still available from, for example, North Holland, where the pears were harvested on time. But some stored pears have disappointing quality. You're not allowed to use as many crop protection products, so scab pressure is particularly challenging."
"Costs have skyrocketed, with labor leading the way, but we can all make a living as growers at these prices. There are also fewer promotions where apples are sold for €0.99. The new fruit will hit the market relatively early. High nighttime temperatures are being forecast for next week. That should shorten the marketing period somewhat. As a grower, I wouldn't wait too long to capitalize on the current prices," Aart explains.
"Apple market prices are good, too. Quality Elstar apples are priced between €1.20 to €1.30. However, many batches, especially from the south of the country, don't meet the firmness requirements and thus don't qualify for these prices. The season will probably end early I think we'll barely make it to the end of May. Just six to eight more weeks, and then it's pretty much over for Elstars."
Preparations for the new cherry season - FruitPartners Blom's showpiece - are also in full swing. "Our new early variety will have finished blooming by next week," Art confirms. "So, from the first week of June, we'll have good, firm cherries." The setup of his fruit park is also underway. "We're currently building the first phase, which will open in mid-May. It's taking longer than anticipated, but we're creating something beautiful, offering people a real fruit experience," he concludes.
For more information:
Fruit Partners Blom
16 Hooiweg
4158 LE, Deil, Belgium
Tel: +31 (0) 345 651 311
aart@fruitpartnersblom.nl
www.fruitpartnersblom.nl