EUROFRUIT—ISSUE 511
EUROFRUIT
DISTRIBUTED AT
THE INTERNATIONAL MARKETING MAGAZINE FOR FRESH PRODUCE BUYERS IN EUROPE
VISIT US AT
JANUARY 2018 — ISSUE 511 fruitnet.com/eurofruit
CITYCUBE HALL B STAND A-04 7-9 FEBRUARY 2018
DISTRIBUTION DISRUPTION
BRAND NEW OPPORTUNITIES FOR PRODUCE SUPPLY IN THE DIGITAL AGE BERLIN BONANZA
2018
Fruit Logistica keeps the fruit and vegetable trade informed and inspired
JAN FEB • MAR • APR • MAY • JUN • JUL-AUG • SEP • OCT • NOV-DEC
CALL OFF THE BANANAPOCALYPSE: WHY IT’S NOT ALL DOOM AND GLOOM FOR THE WORLD’S BANANA PRODUCERS, EXPORTERS AND MARKETERS
COVER.indd 1
12/12/2017 14:50
since 1973
Should we talk about the World Cup?
S
Whoever it was that first uttered those words, the sentiment certainly rings true for those of us hoping the UK has packed its Union Jack parachute correctly
CALL OFF THE BANANAPOCALYPSE: WHY IT’S NOT ALL DOOM AND GLOOM FOR THE WORLD’S BANANA PRODUCERS, EXPORTERS AND MARKETERS
on the cover With a nod to Shepard Fairey’s visual augury of a more optimistic age, we believe the banana trade still has the potential to prosper in 2018.
hould we talk about the weather? Should we talk about the government?” The magnificent Michael Stipe of rem there, neatly summing up my thoughts as I prepare for another year of speaking to members of the international fresh produce business. For me, talking about Brexit is about as appealing as discussing this year’s World Cup in a room full of Dutch and Italians. Actually that’s not strictly true: at Fruit Logistica in Berlin next month, I’ll probably steer the conversation directly towards football once the now customary opening remarks of “Brexit, eh? Oh dear…” are out of the way. Here’s another quote for you. “History may not repeat itself, but it does rhyme.” Whoever it was that first uttered those words – they are attributed to Mark Twain most commonly – the sentiment certainly rings a bell for those of us hoping the UK has packed its Union Jack parachute correctly before leaping from the blue plane with the yellow stars. By all accounts, joining what was then the eec in 1973 was as difficult and complicated a process for the UK as it is now proving to leave. Huge financial demands from Europe coupled with the UK’s weak and woefully ill-prepared negotiating position meant the applicant had to accommodate the club’s demands, not the other way round, and what applied 25 years ago appears equally valid today; we are witnessing an ‘accession in reverse’, as the FT’s Brussels correspondent Alex Barker put it recently. Former wto chief and European Commissioner Pascal Lamy has labelled Brexit an “adjustment” rather than a negotiation. It will certainly take plenty of getting used to. _ E
Mike Knowles, Editor
Follow me on Twitter: @mikefruitnet
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.1-3 contents.indd 1
01
06/12/2017 13:21
Untitled-1 1
08/12/2017 11:33
contents
january 2018 briefings
features
8.............Fresh 10
42..........Bananas
264........Climate change
10...........Produce Lines
58..........Italy
266.......Editing the future
12...........Fruit Logistica 2018
80..........Spain
267........Amazon-Whole Foods
16...........Supply chains
97..........Portugal
268.......Convenience packaging
22...........Retail growth
98..........Belgium
270.......Loading Bay
23..........Consumption
110.........Netherlands
271........Advertiser index
24..........Total Produce
124........France
272........Photo blog
26..........Global risk
132........Germany
28..........Sustainability
136........Poland
30..........Chile’s challenge
140........Greece
32...........Berries
143........Israel
34..........Biodegradable packaging
148........Turkey
36..........Desert farming
150........Serbia
38..........Lettuce in Lebanon
152........United Kingdom
40..........Rolando Drahorad
159........Austria
dispatches
160........Africa 178.........Middle East 186........Argentina 191.........Peru 196........Chile 200.......Colombia 204.......Costa Rica 206.......Brazil 208.......Central America 210........North America
© 2018 Market Intelligence Limited. All rights reserved. Neither this publication nor any part of it may be reproduced, stored or transmitted in any form, including photocopies and information retrieval systems, without the prior permission of Market Intelligence Limited. Published monthly, except for the July/August and November/December issues, by Market Intelligence Limited. Eurofruit Magazine is a registered trademark of Market Intelligence Limited.
224........Asia-Pacific
Printed by Wyndeham Grange, Southwick (UK).
234........Packaging & Technology
Market Intelligence Ltd 132 Wandsworth Road London SW8 2LB, United Kingdom tel +44 20 7501 3700 fax +44 20 7501 0306 info@fruitnet.com fruitnet.com
258........Transport & Logistics
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.1-3 contents.indd 3
03
06/12/2017 13:20
News
Events
fruitnet.com/eurofruit
berrycongress.com
Visit the Global Berry Congress website for the latest event photos, programme updates and details on how to register.
eurofruit's news website provides regular updates on all the top stories from the European fresh fruit and vegetable business.
Photo Blog instagram.com/chrisfruitnet
Follow Chris White's Instagram page for regular photos, commentary and occasional video updates from his travels around the world.
Eurofruit App
E
bit.ly/Eurofruitapp
Download the eurofruit app from the iTunes App Store and enjoy an interactive, digital copy – available at the start of each month.
LinkedIn linkedin.com/showcase/eurofruitmagazine
Expand your network of professional contacts and join the fresh produce conversation by visiting the eurofruit LinkedIn account.
Digital Edition exacteditions.com/eurofruit
Readers with a digital subscription to eurofruit can also access our Digital Edition, which includes back issues and downloadable pdf pages.
Twitter twitter.com/eurofruit
Keep up to date with news, opinions and developments from around the European fresh produce trade by following our dedicated Twitter feed.
04
Facebook facebook.com/eurofruit
Like our Facebook page and get the freshest industry news and the latest events updates delivered straight to your timeline.
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.4 Online-promo.indd 4
07/12/2017 10:03
Untitled-1 1 Untitled-1 1
18/01/2016 10:01 13/05/2015 09:27
since 1973
editorial
advertising
editor Mike Knowles
advertising manager Artur Wiselka
deputy editor Carl Collen
account manager Felix Moritz
senior reporter Tom Joyce
account executive Giorgio Mancino
+44 20 7501 3702 michael@fruitnet.com
+44 20 7501 3703 carl@fruitnet.com
+44 20 7501 3704 tom@fruitnet.com
features editor Maura Maxwell
+44 20 7501 3706 maura@fruitnet.com
staff writer Fred Searle
+44 20 7501 0301 fred@fruitnet.com
design & production
design manager Simon Spreckley
+44 20 7501 3713 simon@fruitnet.com
middleweight designer Anna Patoka
+48 12 200 2129 artur@fruitnet.com
+44 20 7501 0313 felix@fruitnet.com
+44 20 7501 3716 giorgio@fruitnet.com
Michael Barker fresh produce journal
Manuel Madrid fruit profits
sales executive Birgit Hannemann
Michael reports on the best
Manuel says that while
of the recent World Banana
much has been made
Congress in Miami, has
of the impact of TR4 on
news on disease resistance
the banana industry, the
and interviews Corbana's
threat of Black Sigatoka is
Jorge Sauma.
arguably far more serious.
bananas–p42-47
bananas–p52-54
David del Pino freshtrategy
Natalie Berg planet retail
David looks at the
Following Amazon’s
agricultural implications
takeover of Whole Foods,
of making Broad Institute
Natalie considers how the
and Dupont-Pioneer's
deal could have a major
crispr-Cas9 gene editing
impact on the companies'
technology available to all.
respective operations.
gene editing–p266
retail–p267
+49 2131-27 64 07 birgit@fruitnet.com
us & canada Jeff Long
tel +1 805 966 0815 fax +1 805 966 0061 jeff@fruitnet.com
france Irmelin Egelhoff
tel +49 211 691 4523 fax +49 211 691 1746 irmelin@fruitnet.com
italy Giordano Giardi
+44 20 7501 3721 anna@fruitnet.com
tel +39 059 786 3839 fax +39 059 786 3868 giordano@fruitnet.com
graphic designer Zoe Chui
south africa Fred Meintjes
+44 20 7501 3715 zoe@fruitnet.com
administration
financial director Elvan Gul +44 20 7501 3711 elvan@fruitnet.com
accounts manager Tracey Thomas +44 20 7501 3717 tracey@fruitnet.com
+27 28 754 1418 fredmeintjes@fruitnet.com
asia pacific Kate Riches
+61 3 9040 1601 kate@fruitnet.com
asia pacific Alexandra Walker
+61 2 8005 3495 alexandra@fruitnet.com
management
accounts assistant Günal Yildiz
executive director Robert Broadfoot
office manager Mandy Emeny-Smith
commercial director Ulrike Niggemann
+44 20 7501 3714 gunal@fruitnet.com
+44 20 7501 0310 mandy@fruitnet.com
events & marketing
group events manager Marija Cvetkovic
contributors
+49 211 99 10 413 robert@fruitnet.com
+49 211 99 10 425 ulrike@fruitnet.com
managing director Chris White +44 20 7501 3710 chris@fruitnet.com
+44 20 7501 3707 marija@fruitnet.com
marketing & event operations manager Laura Martín Nuñez +44 20 7501 3720 laura@fruitnet.com
key to writers cc Carl Collen cw Chris White fm Fred Meintjes fs Fred Searle ge Gabrielle Easter gk Gerry Kelman jh John Hey jl Jeff Long lc Luisa Cheshire mb Michael Barker mj Matthew Jones mk Mike Knowles mm Maura Maxwell np Nina Pullman tj Tom Joyce yy Yuxin Yang
subscriptions & events executive Michelle Walsh +44 20 7501 0311 michelle@fruitnet.com
06
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.6 Colophon.indd 6
06/12/2017 12:26
Untitled-3 1
13/11/2017 10:40
briefings fresh 10
SEND YOUR NEWS TO:
news@fruitnet.com
1
Cheaper produce ‘could prevent 23k deaths a year’
HEALTH Reducing the price of fruit and veg by 10 per cent could prevent around 23,000 deaths from stroke, diabetes and heart disease a year, a major new international study has found. Researchers from Tufts University in the US, along with Imperial University and University of London, looked at the effects of changing the price of seven food items on the number of annual deaths from cardiometabolic diseases in the US. On healthy food, such as fruits, vegetables, whole
1.7m tonnes
of all seven foods were altered by 10 per cent, an
2016/17 TOTAL PLANTED AREA...
estimated 23,000 deaths per year could be prevented, or
220,334ha
63,000 deaths prevented per year, or 9.2 per cent of all cardiometabolic disease deaths. “This is the first time, to our knowledge, that national data sets have been pooled and analysed to investigate the influence of food subsidies and taxes on disparities in cardiometabolic deaths in the US,” said lead author José Peñalvo.” Senior author Dariush Mozaffarian said the findings are “particularly relevant” today in context of growing concerns over diet and cardiometabolic disease. _NP
3
CEE to drive Europe’s grocery market
4
EU reaches decision on glyphosate
PRICING French president
FOOD SAFETY The EU has voted
Emmanuel Macron has proposed
to renew the licence for glyphosate,
a legislative change that would
ending months of deadlock related
see food prices set on the basis
to concerns over the chemical’s
of producers’ costs. The change
safety and environmental impact.
is designed to assist farmers, an
Glyphosate, which is the active
important constituency in French
...GROWTH OF
7.3% EXPORTS
1m tonnes 2016/17 EXPORTS...
873,963 tonnes ...AT A VALUE OF
US$2.5bn 2015/16 EXPORTS...
960,362 tonnes ...AT A VALUE OF
US$1.5bn LEADING EUROPEAN IMPORTERS
France & Spain Source: USDA
ingredient in Monsanto’s widely
politics, who have suffered from
RETAIL Growth in Europe’s
used Roundup weedkiller, has been
squeezed margins and the retail
grocery retail market is to be driven
reauthorised for five years after a
price war. In 2016, a third of French
by Central and Eastern Europe,
proposal in the EU Commission’s
farmers under €350 a month, a
with sales in the region expanding
Appeal Committee was passed by 18
third of the net minimum wage,
nearly three times that of Western
according to the Agricultural
Europe over the next five years,
Mutual Assistance Association. _tj
2016/17 PRODUCTION
80% of production
per cent price change almost tripled that result with
France proposes food pricing change
1.8m tonnes
MICHOACAN
3.4 per cent of all cardiometabolic disease deaths. A 30
2
PRODUCTION
effects of price subsidies, while on processed and at the impact of taxes. They found that if the prices
the number of cardiometabolic deaths
2017/18 forecast
grains, and nuts and seeds, they looked at the potential unprocessed red meats and sugary drinks they looked
ABOVE—Lowering the prices of fruit and vegetables could cut
Mexican avocados
votes to nine. _Fs
according to grocery research organisation igd. _cc Full story – p22
08
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.8-9 Fresh 10.indd 8
06/12/2017 12:48
BRIEFINGS
5
Spain buoyant over avocados PRODUCTION Spanish avocado producers are
anticipating a positive campaign as demand on the European market continues to outstrip supply. The 2017/18 crop is expected to be similar to last season at around 55,000 tonnes, with producers reporting excellent quality and optimum sizes for the European market. Harvesting of Bacon, Fuerte and Hass began at the tail-end of 2017. _MM
6
Rolando Drahorad
7
Greenyard’s Stefan Reincke joins Landgard
Producer association Asaja said european sales grew by 15 per cent in 2016 to over 400,000 tonnes, equating to Spain’s entire annual output.
“the global market is growing at an annual rate of 150,000 and 200,000 tonnes and around 1.7m tonnes of avocados are now sold every year,” Asaja noted.
Colruyt to sell Belgian sweet potatoes
PEOPLE Greenyard’s Stefan
RETAIL Belgium’s Colruyt
a leading player
Reincke has been handed the
has started selling its first
task of transforming Landgard
domestically-grown sweet
has passed away
subsidiary Godeland into a
potatoes at its Colruyt and
at the age of 79.
company that can supply retail
Okay stores. The sweet
He devoted much
customers with a full range of
potatoes are being supplied by
products year-round. Drawing on
De Aardhappelhoeve, a family
two decades’ experience, he will
producer based in the West-
Drahorad, steering
lead Godeland as the cooperative’s
Flemish town of Tielt. Colruyt
its development as
members bid to establish a
buyer Lutgard Massaer welcomed
a modern export
more international operation
Belgian sweet potatoes as a
encompassing a broader range of
valuable addition to the retailer’s
Full Story – p132-133
Full story – p108
produce industry,
of his working life to building his company NCX
service provider to key international clients.
_MK
Full story – p40
fruit and vegetables. _MK
“the european market is booming and Spanish avocados have an excellent reputation in terms of quality and taste,” noted Martina otten of trops.
8
rolando Drahorad, in the Italian fresh
the producer association noted that both colombia and Mexico are likely to send more fruit to europe in future as their production volume grows.
produce offering. _MM
9
Spain fires warning over CAP reform
Fruitnet receives special journalism award
TRADE Spanish producers have expressed concern over European Union plans to reform the Common Agricultural Policy. Grower-exporter federation Fepex issued a statement noting than a leaked document from the Commission on the future of food and farming leaked made no mention of the fruit and vegetable sector. After reviewing the document Fepex concluded that there was no reference at all to the the Spanish Association for Agricultural Journalists has presented EUROFRUIT publisher fruitnet Media International with a special prize for journalism in recognition of its “professionalism and quality of information”. Accepting the award at fruit Attraction were (l-r) Maura Maxwell, felix Moritz, Mike Knowles and chris White. MK
_
Common Markets Organisations, which include strategic measures
for the fresh produce sector. _MM
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.8-9 Fresh 10.indd 9
09
06/12/2017 12:48
Briefings
produce lines
twitter feed
“If you’re one of thousands of apple growers, producing the same variety with nothing special or unique, investors won’t be interested.” The fao’s andriy yarmak tells Fruitnet Forum South East Europe delegates that diversifying markets and varieties would make Serbia a better investment prospect.
“The quarter was marked by one of the industry’s worst oversupply of bananas in several years.”
@EU_Commission The EU is the first agri-food exporter globally, has an unparalleled reputation for its culinary heritage and for the savoir-faire of its producers. It’s now time to reflect on the #FutureofCAP 14:25 – 3 December @chrisfruitnet First-ever pop-up store for fresh vegetables: Kalettes are now being served in London’s Hoxton! #freshideas #kale #sprouts #bangontrend 13:21 – 1 December
Del Monte chairman and ceo mohammad abu-Ghazaleh reports on a tough quarter for the group, as net income falls.
“This extension will apply world-class science with Plant & Food Research to develop new and novel kiwifruit varieties.” Carol Ward of Zespri on the announcement by the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (mbie) that it will renew its partnership with Zespri.
@Verhuel_Jeroen Fantastic work by Afrisem Tanzania initiated by @RijkZwaan. Developing hybrid vegetable and fruit seeds for growing high yielding crops. Preparing African farmers to feed the continent and make a good living. Such visionary work. 17:25 – 30 November @mikefuitnet Run by Delhaize Serbia, this is the 1st Maxi hypermarket to move its #freshproduce dept front of store. Sales now 14% of total. #freshideas 16:19 – 24 November
“Chile remains dedicated to Europe, and maintaining our presence in what continues to be our second-largest market for fresh fruit.” Asoex’s charif Christian carvajal says there is still potential to increase sales of Chilean fruit in Europe, highlighting areas like organics.
numbers
90,000
16
US$169m
Greek table grape exports are forecast to grow to 90,000 tonnes in 2017/18 from the 78,667 tonnes shipped in 2016/17, according to a gain report from the usda.
In Peru, adverse weather led to an estimated 16 per cent fall in exports of organic bananas from Piura in 2017, according to the Banana Technical Board.
Figures from the Centre of Advanced Studies in Applied Economics (Cepea/usp) show that Europeans spent US$169m on Brazilian mangoes in 2016.
tonnes
spent
NZ$6.7m
18
280,000
In New Zealand, mbie will invest NZ$6.7m together with Zespri’s contribution of NZ$15.7m over the next seven years to develop new kiwifruit products.
Roger Burnley has taken over as chief executive of UK retailer Asda after Sean Clarke stepped down after just 18 months. Burnley took over on 1 January 2018.
Argentinean pear exports are set to climb to 280,000 tonnes in 2017/18, the usda has forecast, with apple export up to 80,000 tonnes and grape exports at 4,000 tonnes.
investment
10
per cent
months
tonnes
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.10 Produce Lines.indd 10
07/12/2017 10:13
FLANDRIA: THE FRESH FAMILY.
Visit us at Fruit Logistica 7 - 9 Feb 2018 Hall 6.2 B03-06
Campaign financed with assistance from the European Community VLAM Flanders’ Agricultural Marketing Board Koning Albert II-laan 35 / 50 • B-1030 Brussels T +32 2 552 80 11 • F +32 2 552 80 01 • info@vlam.be
1712_217x305_25jFL.indd 1
www.flandria.be 11/12/2017 13:55:45
BRIEFINGS PREVIEW —Fruit Logistica
Keeping you informed and in the picture berlin—Bringing together the world’s largest assembled array of fresh produce industry experts, this year’s event will be packed not just with new opportunities to connect with customers but also with stacks of useful information. by Mike Knowles
12
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.12-14.indd 12
05/12/2017 12:14
BRIEFINGS
N
ext month sees the return of the
tial opportunities for networking
sian buyers are now trialling prickly
international fresh produce indus-
on offer.
pears from Greece. As you can see,
try’s leading trade fair, Fruit Logis-
The global fruit and vegeta-
tica. As with any market leader,
ble trade thrives on new opportu-
the event has been obliged to rein-
nities, making Fruit Logistica in
What’s also true is that the
vent itself over the years in order
Berlin an ideal meeting point for
global fresh produce business is
to maintain its success and keep up
those hoping to see where the next
changing
with the demands of its customers.
chance for growth will come. In the
it is becoming far more intercon-
This explains why the event is offer-
past year, Italian grocers wanted
nected than ever before. New links
ing even more this year in terms of
more cherries from the UK, where
between sources and markets are
what we publishers tend to call ‘con-
in turn importers were scoping out
cropping up in various parts of the
tent’: visitors to the Berlin show will
new and alternative sources of avo-
world, adding a new level of com-
find more information on tap than
cados; that’s a product which Spain
plexity to an already intricate and
ever before thanks to the exhibi-
has started to sell to supermarkets
international trade network. No
PICTURED—Scenes
tion’s most in-depth conference pro-
in South Africa, where citrus export-
surprise then, that the number of
from last year’s
gramme ever. Plus, the organisers
ers are building a major market in
exhibitors booked to participate in
confirm there will be an unprece-
India. The la er wants more Euro-
Fruit Logistica 2018 is already great-
dented number of companies exhib-
pean apples and more kiwifruit
er than ever before. “Fruit Logisti-
in visitor numbers
iting this time around, offering even
from New Zealand, which is selling
ca continues to offer exhibitors an
to around 75,000
more choice in terms of the poten-
more lemons to Asia, where Malay-
unrivalled opportunity to put
Fruit Logistica, which registered a 5 per cent increase
the potential connections are too many to count.
dramatically,
because
»
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.12-14.indd 13
13
05/12/2017 12:15
BRIEFINGS
14
their products and services in front
up launched in San Francisco last September, says it
technology in action today at the
of buyers from all over the world,”
will reinvent the supermarket model and bypass real
Tech Stage; and stop by the Frutic
says the event’s global brand mana-
stores by using automated, analytical technology to
Symposium to hear how water use
ger Wilfried Wollbold.
manage food delivery from farm to fridge within the
is being optimised in the fresh pro-
space of an hour. Faced with such radical future devel-
duce supply chain.
IDEAS APLENTY
opments, the question most in the fresh produce indus-
In short, Fruit Logistica 2018
The trade fair also offers a means
try are asking is: what must we do differently as a
offers plenty of inspiration to those
of understanding how the fresh
result? Every day, we are faced with a steady stream of
hoping to expand, diversify or
produce supply chain will work in
new ideas and innovations, but which of these require
simply make a start in the fresh
future. Digital communication has
immediate further investigation and which should be
fruit and vegetable business. _ E
already revolutionised the way we
filed away for later?
consume information, and now
One of Fruit Logistica’s strengths is that it brings
it’s changing the way we consume
together a large number of experts from around the
fruit and vegetables. As we report
world who offer valuable advice on such developments.
in more depth on p16-18, that dis-
From its annual curtain-raiser Fruitnet World of Fresh
ruption has prompted a remarka-
Ideas, which presents the latest trends and newest
ble transformation in all parts of
innovations in the world of fresh produce, to the Fresh
the fresh produce supply chain as
Produce Forum, which addresses a series of key chal-
methods of communication and
lenges facing the industry, Fruit Logistica’s programme
distribution become more sophisti-
of events is your fast-track to finding the right answers.
cated, complex and interconnected.
Plus there’s the Future Lab, where the industry’s
Artificial intelligence, for exam-
brightest minds highlight some of the most interesting
ple, could render some of our most
products, services and trends in their conceptual stage.
established
practices
Plus you can learn about new developments in cold
redundant. Farmstead, a new start-
chain logistics at the Logistics Hub; see tomorrow’s
business
More info… fruitlogistica.com
Discover everything that the world’s leading fresh produce trade fair has to offer visitors and exhibitors.
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.12-14.indd 14
05/12/2017 12:15
Untitled-3 1
30/06/2017 15:07
briefings
Trend report —Distribution
Fresh produce supply in the digital age berlin—As the grocery retail and foodservice industries
touch of a few buttons, neatly illustrates the power of the internet to take an area of the consumer economy and revitalise it by removing
a great deal about the power of the internet to disrupt
ciency of its supply lines and making
an industry like
the experience for consumers and vendors alike far more convenient
chains present an almost mind-blowing array of potential
and rewarding. JustEat’s core mar-
by Mike Knowles
meteoric rise says
barriers to entry, improving the effi-
continue to evolve, new technologies and changing supply new opportunities for fresh fruit and vegetable companies.
ABOVE—JustEat’s
kets now include Australia, Brazil,
foodservice OPPOSITE TOP & BOTTOM—Rewe’s
response to the online challenge
Canada, Denmark, France, Ireland,
has been to invest
Italy, Mexico, Norway, New Zealand,
in its distribution
Spain, Switzerland and the UK, with
network
more apparently on the menu. Across foodservice and indeed
A
16
single food distribution
influential players in the European
grocery retail, the impact of the
company that began life
food market and a major influence
internet is astounding and ongo-
just under 18 years ago as
on its millions of consumers. At the
ing:
a startup in a Danish basement is
time of writing, having just been
across the board for new players to
now worth more than all except the
listed among the top 100 companies
tear down the walls of the bricks-
top ten grocery retailers in Europe.
on the London Stock Exchange, it is
and-mortar
Just let that sink in for a moment.
apparently worth £5.5bn – more val-
tively stopping the once rampant
This company is now headquar-
uable than the UK’s second-largest
traditional retail beasts in their real-
tered in the UK and active in 13
supermarket chain, Sainsbury’s.
estate-hungry tracks. Those real-
opportunities
have
establishment,
opened
effec-
countries around the world, and
The meteoric rise of JustEat, the
world retailers have been forced to
despite only offering one service
web-based platform that enables
rethink their entire operations, in
and no actual products of its own, it
people to order takeaway food from
many cases curtailing investment
has risen to become one of the most
restaurants in their local area at the
in areas like new store openings and
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.16-20.indd 16
05/12/2017 11:56
briefings
diverting their resources towards more modern forms of grocery distribution, like click-and-collect, home delivery networks and so-called dark stores whose entire raison d’être is to fulfil orders placed online. In other parts of the world, such as China, where modern retail enterprises had not planted such deep roots in the market as the internet revolution began, some retailers have been able to leapfrog their older counterparts by incorporating online distribution more fully into their businesses, while other new market entrants have seen fit to do away with real-world retail altogether and focus solely on managing logistics networks in order to serve online customers. Fresh investigation In a marketplace that is increasingly globalised and interconnected, the
pile new and original research that
and emerging markets are evident-
way fresh fruit and vegetables are
explains what the fresh fruit and
ly embracing e-commerce, which
carried from origin to destination
vegetable supply chain of tomorrow
means their expectations are chang-
is changing, and the expansion of
will look like. The key questions it
ing fast. While online-only retailers
online distribution – spearheaded, of
will answer are as follows: What are
steal a march on their real-world
course, by Amazon – is at the heart of
the most important factors affect-
rivals to offer faster delivery times,
that change. The supply chain itself
ing the global fresh produce supply
broader choice and greater conve-
is in a continual state of flux, shaped
chain? Where in the world will fresh
nience, some traditional supermar-
and reshaped by the emergence of
fruit and vegetables be sold in 2025
ket retailers are working hard to
new markets and shifting patterns
and beyond? Which distribution
counter that offer with an improved
of consumer demand. As industry
channels will bring those products
in-store experience and internet-
players right along that supply chain
to consumers? And how will tech-
based delivery services of their own.
grow and consolidate, their advances
nology change that supply chain?
They may be past masters at provid-
are coinciding with a notable drive
The findings of the research will
ing the right quality fresh produce
towards greater efficiency, a trend
be published for the first time in
in store, but achieving that same
apparently being helped along by
Berlin on 6 February during Fruit-
standard in home delivery is by no
seemingly unstoppable technologi-
net World of Fresh Ideas, one day
means guaranteed.
cal advances.
before the start of Fruit Logistica.
For example, one of those Euro-
With this in mind, the fresh pro-
Drawing on original research con-
pean retail giants, Rewe Group, is
duce industry’s leading trade fair
ducted in the past few months, the
pressing ahead with plans to expand
Fruit Logistica has set about help-
report will present what its authors
its fresh food delivery service in Ger-
ing its visitors learn more about
believe to be the potential impact
many by building a new centre in
how the supply chain is changing
on the fresh produce business of
Cologne for the fulfilment of online
and will change in future. To do
that online retailing trend, as well
orders. Described as a ‘Food Fulfil-
so, the show’s cooperation partner
as innovations in cold chain logis-
ment Center 2.0’, the new facility
Fruitnet Media International has
tics and technology, and new devel-
occupies a site the size of two and a
commissioned global management
opments in foodservice.
half football pitches and is expected
consultancy Oliver Wyman to com-
Consumers in both established
to be completed by the end of this
»
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.16-20.indd 17
17
05/12/2017 11:56
briefings
year. It will be packed with state-of-
quality play a key role for Rewe cus-
Fresh website or the Amazon app,
the-art, automated technology that
tomers both on and offline. Espe-
including products from popular
promises to bring Rewe up to speed
cially with online orders, it is also
local stores including independent
as far as competing with the likes of
about service and attractive offers,
grocer
Amazon.
suitable delivery time-frames and
options are flexible Monday to Sat-
efficient processes.”
urday – same-day when ordered
Around 20,000 different products including fresh fruit and vegeta-
Frischeparadies.
Delivery
before midday, or in two-hour deliv-
bles will be stored at the centre and,
Bricks and clicks
unlike previous distribution centres,
However, many observers feel the
“Our goal is to continually
those items will be moved automati-
momentum is with the likes of US
improve AmazonFresh,” says Ajay
cally instead of by hand. “Previously,
multinational Amazon and Chinese
Kavan, the division’s vice-presi-
employees had to walk 12-15km per
market leader Alibaba, the world’s
dent. “The basis for this is customer
shift to complete orders,” explains
largest
platforms.
feedback and our experience. We’re
Christoph Eltze, chief executive of
Online retail giant Amazon con-
learning more and more about it –
e-commerce
ery windows the next day.
LEFT—Amazon
is taking further strides across Europe, where its AmazonFresh service is reaching more and more customers
18
Rewe Digital. “In the new ffc 2.0, it’s
tinues to roll out its AmazonFresh
in Berlin, Potsdam and Hamburg,
the other way round: here, the prod-
across Europe: in Germany, towards
but also in the US, UK and Japan.
ucts come to the order picker simply
the end of 2017, it extended the ser-
This should benefit all Amazon-
and conveniently via automated
vice to Munich, bringing to three
Fresh customers, and from now
shuttle technology.”
the number of urban locations in
[this is] also [the case] in Munich.”
By this summer, the centre’s
Germany where the group’s Prime
One of the big new trends for
capacity to streamline grocery deliv-
members can count on same-day
2018 will likely be an accelerated
eries will begin to make a material
delivery of a range of fresh groceries
convergence of online and offline,
contribution to Rewe’s retail opera-
including fruit and vegetables. That
something which in fact offers hope
tion. According to Jan Kunath, the
capped a busy year in the German
to those working in the latter part
deputy chairman of Rewe Group’s
market for the company, which
of the market; after all, if Amazon
executive board who also heads up
rolled out AmazonFresh to custom-
feels the need to invest in bricks
its digital business, the important
ers in Hamburg last May, before
and mortar itself, as it has with its
thing will be to demonstrate that
doing the same for those in Berlin
recent acquisition of Whole Foods,
the same kind of freshness found in
and neighbouring Potsdam in July.
then presumably there are elements
stores can also be guaranteed in the
Prime members in Munich and
of the traditional retail experience
home delivery market. “Fresh food
the immediate surrounding area
that can remain as cornerstones of
is a matter of trust for our custom-
can now choose from more than
the real-world grocery offer.
ers,” he comments. “Freshness and
300,000 items via the Amazon-
In the past year, no doubt
»
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.16-20.indd 18
05/12/2017 11:56
fruitlogistica.com
2018
FRUIT LOGIS TICA
7|8|9 FEBRUARY BERLIN
FruchthandelMagazin_FL2018_210x297_en.indd 1
21.12.2016 10:33:04
briefings
consumers, yet the foodservice industry in some developed markets nowadays outperforms the retail trade when it comes to sales. A lot of the growth in this area is being generated by the newest kinds of delivery, including restaurant link-up services like JustEat, Deliveroo, Uber Eats or the Berlinbased global market leader Delivery Hero. Others, meal-kit provider HelloFresh (also based in Berlin) or the dedicated US grocery delivery company Instacart, are in many respects blurring the line between
20
with an eye on the predicted
the world for greater directness and
growth of home grocery delivery,
transparency. So how is the logistics
These all represent opportunities
both Amazon and Alibaba have
side of the supply chain managing
that could offer the fresh fruit and
signalled their intention to extend
to deliver on those requirements?
vegetable business a growing source
their
distribu-
How can it harness the enormous
of income if the recent trends
tion models to the physical realm
potential offered by new technol-
towards healthy eating, convenience
in order to create closer links with
ogies like blockchain communica-
and experiential enjoyment contin-
communities: Amazon’s monumen-
tions or vehicle automation? Which
ue. However, the requirements
tal takeover of Whole Foods brings
other technologies will be required?
in areas such as certifi-
it into even more direct competition
What role, moreover, will inde-
cation, lead times, prod-
with the likes of Walmart, while Ali-
pendent providers (the so-called
uct
baba’s stake in discount chain San-
3PLs) play in helping the more tra-
even the type of prod-
jang Shopping Club suggests a
ditional
similar development in China. One
importer model to adapt
not necessarily be
could argue that, with the internet
accordingly? And what will
the same when it
giants entering the physical realm,
major structural changes to
comes to this side
the door is opening further for the
the supply chain – consolida-
of the food distribu-
fresh fruit and vegetable suppli-
tion of container lines, for exam-
tion market. For that reason, the
ers who can help these newer cus-
ple, or the centralisation of physical
report will take a closer look at
tomers bring consistent supply into
distribution hubs – do to alter the
where in the foodservice arena new
their stores.
distribution landscape in years to
potential might lie for fresh produce
come? Oliver Wyman’s report for
companies, including those rapidly
Eating out is very much in
Fruit Logistica will endeavour to
developing food-to-go and takeaway
The recent push to remove unnec-
find out. Companies new and old
delivery trades. Will suppliers need
essary links in the fresh produce
in the foodservice arena, where
to work more closely with third-par-
supply chain has reportedly had a
there is also plenty going on that
ty logistics providers in this market
dramatic effect, but not perhaps in
could affect the fresh fruit and veg-
TOP—JustEat is
too? What about other foodservice
the way people expected: the much-
etable business, will also feature in
among a number
areas like street markets, catering or
heralded introduction of simplified
the report. Online or offline, super-
of companies
public procurement? And in which
and highly efficient direct sourc-
markets may command the great-
taking foodservice
areas should suppliers make chang-
ing models, for example, has not
est attention when it comes to the
always been as straightforward as
international
predicted; and yet there is clearly
virtue of their enormous buying
huge demand from buyers around
power and close connection with
highly
efficient
retail and foodservice.
producer-exporter-
food
business
specifications
or
ucts needed might
by
to new heights ABOVE—The group
has even toyed with the idea of delivery by robot
es to their product offering if they want to tap into this particular part of the chain? Join us in Berlin to learn more. _ E
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.16-20.indd 20
05/12/2017 11:56
The colours of
our harvest So many colours, tastes and aromas. South Tyrol’s apples stand out from the rest thanks to its vast range of varieties, because here we have the right apple to suit every taste. From cultivation to harvesting all the way to packing and delivery, VOG’s strict checking procedures guarantee apples from South Tyrol are the best quality.
Via Jakobi 1/A - I-39018 Terlano (Südtirol) - Tel. +39 0471 256 700 - Fax +39 0471 256 699 - info@vog.it - www.vog.it
AZ Sorten EN 210x297+3.indd 1
18.07.16 10:52
BRIEFINGS
report —Retail analysis
CEE to power European growth london—igd forecasts that central and eastern Europe will drive the continent’s grocery growth over the course of the next five years, rather than western Europe. by Carl Collen
G
stores will remain the continent’s
nit’s convenience format will remain
largest grocery format, we are fore-
its largest contributor to sales reve-
casting
retailers
nue, at over 70 per cent by 2020. In the
will show the most dynamic sales
that
discount
next five years, the retailer will con-
rowth in Europe’s grocery retail market is to
growth to 2022, underpinned by new
centrate on increasing its presence
be driven by central and eastern Europe (cee),
store openings and remodelling of
in western Russia’s top cities, rapid-
with sales in the region set to grow nearly
existing stores. The discount chains
ly increasing the number of stores.
three times faster than in western Europe over the next
are continuing to focus on becoming
Finally, Tesco’s convenience strategy
five years, according to figures released by international
a ‘main shop’ destination for more
is shifting from rapid expansion of
grocery research organisation igd. A key finding of the
shoppers and are increasing their
its store estate to making stores easy
report is that Europe’s grocery retail market is set to
presence in city centres, residential
to shop and ensuring the product
grow 3.8 per cent annually to 2022, with cee experiencing
areas and on main shopping streets
range is relevant for local shoppers.
dynamic growth of 6.5 per cent annually, while western
to help achieve this.
Europe will see moderate growth of 2.4 per cent.
“Big box stores remain a core part
“Many discounters are expand-
of European retailers’ operations,
“We expect stronger growth in cee because many
ing their ranges to ensure they stay
with many investing in new ways
local retailers, including X5 Retail Group, Lenta and the
relevant for today’s shoppers,” he
to continue attracting shoppers to
discount operators, are planning extensive store opening
continued. “By tapping into shop-
stores,” Ryba highlighted. “New con-
programmes in large markets like Russia and Romania,
pers’ desire for food-to-go products,
cepts include in-store dining and
where market consolidation is still low,” explained Milos
easy meals for tonight and premi-
other complementary services like
Ryba, igd’s head of discount and cee. “This will really
um ranges, discounters will contin-
pharmacies and store concessions.
accelerate growth across cee and help fuel the entire gro-
ue to attract new shoppers and help
Hypermarkets and supermarkets
cery market in Europe.”
cement their position in the market.
also play a key role in many retail-
Ryba has also identified the key trends affecting the
“The convenience channel will
ers’ omnichannel plans, with online
major retail channels across Europe. “Although bigger
also perform well, with strong sales
pick-up services often connected to
growth forecast across Europe,”
big box stores, helping shoppers to
Ryba noted. “Many multichannel
combine buying in-store and online
retailers are focusing investment on
easily.
their convenience formats, taking an
“The opportunities for growth in
adaptable approach so ranges and
European grocery retail are not lim-
promotions can be flexed by location
ited by, or to, a specific channel,” he
to meet a variety of shopper needs.”
added. “Retailers that can offer value,
The top three retailers in Europe
inspiration and convenient shop-
in the convenience channel are
ping, coupled with low operational
focusing their investment in sev-
costs, will prosper and drive market
eral different areas, according to
growth.” _ E
Ryba. Convenience stores are playing an increasingly important part in Carrefour’s strategy to 2022, with the retailer set to roll out a range of banners, many focused on more specialist needs, such as food-to-go and organic, to help drive growth. Mag-
22
TOP—Retailers such as X5 are planning
extensive store opening programmes LEFT—Milos Ryba, head of discount and
CEE at research organisation IGD
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.22-23.indd 22
05/12/2017 12:06
briefings
REPORT —France
Price drop can’t halt decline
islative change that would see food prices set on the basis of producers’ costs. The change is designed to assist farmers, an important constituen-
france—Falling prices of fruit and vegetables in France last summer failed to arrest the continuing slide in consumption.
cy in French politics, who have suffered from squeezed margins and the ongoing price war between retailers. In 2016, a third of French farmers
by Tom Joyce
earned less than €350 a month, a third of the net minimum wage, according to the Agricultural Mutual Assistance
D
uring the past summer, a
revealed that consumption had been steadily falling
Association (msa). “We should allow
kilogram of conventional
among French consumers for the last few years. “Between
farmers not to rely on subsidies any-
fruit cost an average of
2007 and 2010, we noted that the proportion of adults
more and therefore ensure that they
€3.76 on the French market, accord-
meeting their recommended intake increased from 27 per
be paid a fair amount for their work,”
ing to a study from consumer asso-
cent to 31 per cent,” said Aurée Francou, responsible for
Macron said.
ciation Familles Rurales, while a kilo
the study. “Since then, however, this percentage has fallen
of vegetables cost €2.14. These prices
back to 25 per cent.”
The move, which was welcomed by producers, manufacturers and
represent a drop of around 8 per cent.
The study found that the lowest consumption was
retailers alike, will see the starting
However, according to a study from
from younger consumers, who spend the least amount
price for food set by the seller instead
Credoc, the French Research Centre
of time preparing food and seek practicality in their food
of the manufacturer or retailer, as
for the Study and Monitoring of
purchases.
was previously the case. However, the
Living Standards, the proportion of
Bruno Dupont, president of interprofessional organ-
president said he had delayed a deci-
adults consuming the recommended
isation Interfel, believes that early action is required to
sion on a proposal made by retailers
five portions of fruit and vegetables a
address such trends. “We see that younger generations are
to raise the minimum retail price they
day has actually fallen.
turning away from fresh fruits and vegetables,” he said.
can charge in-store. That decision
A number of products drifted
“That is why it is necessary to raise awareness in school.
was due to be made at the end of 2017,
far from this average price, includ-
It is disappointing because we have partnered with US
according to Macron, who said he
ing strawberries, which fetched their
public schools, including in Chicago and New York, to
would seek guarantees on boosting
highest prices for 10 years, and apri-
intervene in the fight against obesity. But we do not have
farm income and food quality while
cots and melons, which saw prices fall
the right to do so in France.”
minimising retail inflation. _ E
tively. Meanwhile, tomato prices rose
France proposes food pricing change
BELOW—Falling prices failed to arrest the
by 8 per cent, as courgette prices fell
French president Emmanuel Macron has proposed a leg-
slide in consumption
by 26 per cent and 10 per cent respec-
by 20 per cent. Familles Rurales also noted that for the first time in 10 years, the gap between conventional and organic products failed to increase, with organics remaining nearly twice as expensive as their conventional counterparts. “The amount of money a family spends on fruit and vegetables, and food in general, is considerable, especially in relation to the minimum wage,” said Dominique Marmier, president of Familles Rurales. “However, these health recommendations can be met on a reduced budget by choosing the least expensive fruit and vegetables, which are often the seasonal ones.” Nevertheless, Credoc’s research
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.22-23.indd 23
23
05/12/2017 12:06
briefings
report —Total Produce
Fresh Connection for Total Produce lafayette—The acquisition of a 50 per cent equity stake in California-based company broadens Total Produce’s US presence and helps it gain strategic access to other markets. by Carl Collen
L
eading
international
fresh
produce
pany
Total
com-
Produce
announced in October last year that it had acquired a 50 per cent equity stake in California-based
to fresh fruit and vegetables 12
fresh produce company The Fresh
months of the year,” Total Produce
Connection. Founded in 1994 and
added.
headquartered in Lafayette, The
Hank Miller, who will continue
Fresh Connection is one of North
to independently manage The Fresh
America’s premier produce export
Connection along with president Will
companies with 2016 sales of
Mehrten, said that The Fresh Con-
around US$165m, boasting opera-
nection was proud to partner with
tions in South Africa, Chile, Mexico
Total Produce and that the agree-
and Australia as part of its world-
ment would further strengthen the
wide procurement strategy.
business and create new opportuni-
“Total Produce actively seeks
ties for the benefit of all stakeholders,
to partner with successful compa-
while Total Produce chairman Carl
nies, and entrepreneurial manage-
McCann said his group was delighted
ment teams,” The company told
experienced and trusted growers and Hank Miller has
to become a shareholder in The Fresh
eurofruit. “Our new business part-
developed an excellent team consisting of sales, pro-
Connection.
ner, Hank Miller, has built a very
curement, finance and operations, dedicated to under-
successful business over the past
standing the needs of growers and customers.
“This transaction further broadens our US presence and provides
23 years and shares the same values
“We are confident that there will be important oper-
us with strategic access to other
and ambitions as Total Produce:
ational advantages and opportunities in having two
key markets,” said McCann. “We
exceeding customer expectations
world-class companies working together,” Total Pro-
look forward to working with Hank,
through providing premium qual-
duce explained. “In particular, the added resources that
Will and the excellent people in The
ity, safe, traceable fresh produce
Total Produce brings will help The Fresh Connection to
Fresh Connection as it continues to
which is sourced from reputable
find new and creative ways to build on its existing plat-
develop its very successful business
growers in a sustainable manner.”
form and to continue its very successful expansion in
expansion in future years.”
The Fresh Connection exports
future years.”
Looking ahead to 2018, Total Pro-
fresh produce to over 35 countries
The Fresh Connection handles a broad product
duce told eurofruit that it was in a
globally, with a particular focus
range, offering more than 50 different varieties of
strong financial position, and would
on Asian and Middle Eastern mar-
fresh fruits and vegetables with key product categories
continue to pursue attractive acqui-
kets. Total Produce says the com-
including citrus, apples, pears, grapes, berries, cherries,
sition
pany has formed close long-term
stonefruit, lettuce, celery, potatoes and onions. “Wheth-
expand the group in North America,
partnerships with a network of
er its Red Delicious from Washington State, Packham
Europe and other regions. _ E
opportunities
to
further
pears from South Africa or avocados from Mexico, The Fresh Connection works with a network of more
24
p.24.indd 24
ABOVE—The Fresh Connection’s Hank
than 300 growers from both the Northern and South-
Miller (left) and Will Mehrten
ern Hemipsheres to ensure its customers have access
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
05/12/2017 12:28
Untitled-2 1
04/12/2017 11:20
briefings
report —2018 outlook
La Niña creates uncertain outlook utrecht—Rabobank Outlook report warns that La Niña weather phenomenon, fluctuating currencies and increasing freight and input costs could create an unstable agricultural climate in 2018. by Carl Collen eather phenomena, trade headwinds and cur-
tively benign. But there are clouds of
“The unfortunate reality is that
rency fluctuations could all disrupt the global
uncertainty on the horizon and sup-
both farmers and consumers in the
food price environment during 2018. That is the
plies are not enough to sustain prices
UK should prepare themselves for
verdict of agribusiness financial institution and market
should a major event like La Niña dis-
this to happen more often in the
analyst Rabobank, which has released its annual Outlook
rupt major agricultural areas, such as
years ahead,” she warned. “As weath-
report, under the title ‘Good Buy, Low Prices’.
W
the US and South America. This has
er becomes more unpredictable we
The report, which analyses prospects for 13 agricultural
the potential to cause a supply shock
are likely to see a recurrence of the
commodities, found there is currently as much as a 75 per
that would ripple through to food
type of cold snaps that have caused
cent chance of La Niña conditions strengthening and last-
prices, while the rising cost of global
the shortage of British fruit in recent
ing the Northern Hemisphere winter, with the phenom-
trade and potential currency fluctu-
weeks. Incidents of flash flooding
enon potentially bringing extreme heat and dryness to
ations also create upside risks. Our
may also become more common,
areas of the Americas and flooding to parts of Asia. Rabo-
view is these outweigh the downside
causing further pain.
bank said that while global stocks were historically well-
risks in 2018. Producers must there-
In a downbeat assessment of
supplied, balance sheets were tightening, exacerbating the
fore guard against complacency after
changing weather patterns, van Rijs-
potential impact of shocks.
years of relative stability and plan
wick added that poor weather could
ahead to manage these risks proac-
also negatively affect greenhouse
tively and appropriately.”
crops such as strawberries and toma-
Alongside weather, other factors pose a risk to the stability of global food prices, according to Rabobank. Trade is
26
p.26.indd 26
set to continue to play a key role in price volatility. Global
The annual Outlook report, now
toes due to fewer daylight hours. “EU
freight costs – in the form of the Baltic Dry Index – and oil
in its eighth year, is produced by
and rest-of-the-world producers that
prices are both rising and there remains uncertainty over
Rabobank’s specialist team of agricul-
serve the UK could also be hit by
US policy towards nafta and the UK’s future trading rela-
tural commodity markets researchers
shortages of produce like lettuce and
tionship with the EU and other nations. In currencies, the
based around the world.
spinach because of more common
prospect of further interest rate increases in the US raises
It is not the first time the group
the chances of the dollar appreciating, making American
has delivered an uncertain future
exports of key commodities less competitive.
forecast. In 2017, Rabobank analyst
adverse weather,” she pointed out. _ E
Stefan Vogel, head of agri commodity markets at Rabo-
Cindy van Rijswick said frosts that
bank and the report co-author, said: “Historically speak-
hit English topfruit in April were
ing, the global stocks of grains and oilseeds are high,
unlikely to be a one-off, warning of
ABOVE—These are uncertain times for
which is currently keeping the pricing environment rela-
more erratic weather in the future.
the global food industry
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
05/12/2017 11:59
Untitled-1 1
05/12/2017 10:56
briefings
report —Production
RIGHT—Part of
the programme focuses on sustainable production
A food
gricultural banking specialist
Rabobank
has
launched a new global sustainability
programme
called ‘Kickstart Food’, which aims to accelerate the transition to a
Give food a ‘Kickstart’
food production is now at a ‘critical juncture’. Therefore, Rabobank is increasing its support for efforts to increase food production by at least
utrecht—Financial services provider
According to the group, one of the
Rabobank links with UN Environment to
ing the sector’s environmental foot-
first steps in the programme will
set up US$1bn international sustainable
print by 50 per cent.
partnership with UN Environment,
food programme.
to initiate land restoration and forest protection initiatives.
by Carl Collen
“It marks the start of a threescale up Rabobank’s support for
60 per cent towards 2050 while reduc-
Around the globe, Rabobank is actively
promoting
sustainability
certification for its clients. The bank is also advising them on sustainable production methods and soil man-
year initiative to kick-start and
p.28.indd 28
climate change and the environment;
worldwide sustainable food supply.
be the launch of a U$1bn facility, in
28
land, and the impact of agriculture on
agement. The facility together with ensuring a healthy and balanced diet for everyone.
UN Environment aims to offer grants
clients and partners in the tran-
“Our global lead role in financing food production
and open the door for clients to ini-
sition to a more sustainable food
urges us to accelerate developments on the sustainable
tiate large-scale land restoration and
and agricultural sector,” the group
food supply,” said chairman of the executive board Wiebe
forest protection projects. It posi-
explained in a statement.
Draijer. “With our knowledge, networks and financing
tively affects their risk profile, which
The Kickstart Food initiative has
capabilities we aim to further motivate and facilitate cli-
leads to easier access to loans.
four key focus areas, Earth, Waste,
ents in adopting a more sustainable food production prac-
“Significant progress has already
Stability and Nutrition, and the
tice globally. We are proud of this major initiative with the
been made in many areas by Rabo-
facility is part of the first focus area,
UN Environment. We will engage others to expand the
bank,” the group noted. “For example,
Earth, which is centered on sustain-
initiative. It fits very well with our mission of growing a
in Brazil Rabobank has been promot-
able and environmentally sound
better world together.”
ing and financing Integrated Crop,
food production. The Waste pro-
The joint effort with UN Environment is designed to
Livestock and Forestry (iclf) farming.
gramme will focus on reducing food
be an open platform for others to join, and Rabobank has
Working with the World Wildlife
waste throughout the food supply
invited stakeholders from across the entire food and agri-
Fund and local partners we will
chain, the Stability programme aims
cultural sector to join the Kickstart Food programme.
endeavour to restore underutilised or
to create a more stable and resilient
With this mission, Rabobank said it is embracing UN
degraded arable land under the man-
food and agricultural sector, and the
Sustainable Development Goals. With the world’s popula-
agement of Brazilian farmers owning
Nutrition programme will focus on
tion growing towards 9bn, the decline in available arable
17m hectares.” _ E
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
05/12/2017 12:00
Untitled-1 1
28/09/2017 10:40
briefings
report —Chile LEFT—Raising efficiency and improving sustainability
are key challenges for the Chilean fruit industry
C
hilean fruit exporters must raise their game if they are to exploit new opportunities in the global market, according to a new report
from Rabobank on the perspectives for Chilean fruit exports in the coming years. The report’s author, Cindy Van Rijswick, notes that as the world’s second-largest net exporter of fresh fruit and the number one Southern Hemisphere fruit exporter, Chile is well positioned as a supplier and has built a solid reputation based on quality and professionalism. But with competition from other suppliers intensifying, more investment and innovation are needed – particularly in new varieties, irrigation and branding. Chilean producers must also find new strategies to raise efficiency, become more sustainable and become more internationalised by building long-term relationships with retailers and distributors. At 6 per cent annual growth since 2010, the global fresh fruit trade is outpacing overall global trade. This is being fuelled by the emergence of new import markets alongside traditional large markets like the US and Europe. Increasingly, these markets do not only require more fruit; they also need something different, driven by changing consumer preferences and retail dynamics. “A look at the development of global imports of fresh fruits in both absolute and percentage terms demonstrates a diverse landscape of global fruit import markets,” the report states. “Most striking is China, already the world’s third-largest fresh-fruit import market, but still rapidly rising, while countries like Vietnam, Thailand, South Korea, India, the uae, and Saudi Arabia have rapidly moved forward as promising import markets.”
Chilean producers must play the long game utrecht—Exploiting growing global demand for fresh fruit and staying ahead of the competition will require a serious commitment to investment and innovation, according to a new report from Rabobank.
Notwithstanding the arrival of these new kids on the block, the US is still the main growth engine in the global fresh fruit market, while the second highest contributor to growth in absolute terms (expressed in US dollars) is the European Union, in spite of its slow growth in percentage terms. Global fruit consumption is expected to grow at around 4 per cent over the coming years, fuelled by rising incomes and population in developing markets and changing consumer tastes in established markets. The report concludes that Chile is in a strong position to reap the rewards of the expanding market, provided it can capitalise on its reputation for quality and
by Maura Maxwell 30
p.30.indd 30
professionalism with the right investments. _ E
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
05/12/2017 12:01
Fruit & Veg Professional Show 9 10 11 May 2018 Ri m i n i E x p o Cen t re I TALY Organized by:
macfrut.com
briefings
report —Berries
A new blueberry consumption blueprint madrid—Chile and Spain have joined forces in a new campaign to raise blueberry
May to August. Asoex said the campaign could pave the way for future
form the promotions will take. “Over
recent
seasons,
our
joint promotions in other European
industry has been active in the
countries.
Spanish market promoting our
Despite being Europe’s biggest
fresh fruit exports with different
blueberry producer and having
retailers and in new distribution
one of the continent’s highest per
channels like Madrid airport,” he
capita levels of fruit and vegeta-
explains.
ble consumption, Spain lags well
“But this agreement is a sig-
behind northern European coun-
nificant step forward in terms of
consumption in Spain. If successful, it
tries in terms of blueberry con-
promotions, especially as regards
could serve as a basis for further joint
sumption.
the b2b sector, which we have not
promotions in other European countries. by Maura Maxwell
S
With
production
volumes
actively targeted before. This is
growing strongly year-on-year,
going to be a very good platform
Freshuelva has identified the
for promoting our blueberries in
development of the domestic
Spain.”
market as a key priority for the
Andrés Armstrong, executive
coming year. Chile too, is look-
director of the Chilean Blueber-
ing to increase its penetration
ry Committee, says the new cam-
in several European markets in
paign marks “an important step”
panish consumers are the target of a new
response to increasing competi-
towards promoting fresh blue-
blueberry marketing campaign by Chilean
tion from other Southern Hemi-
berries from Chile and Spain all
fruit exporter association Asoex and Spain’s
sphere suppliers.
across Europe.
Freshuelva aimed at promoting fruit from both sources and raising consumption levels in Spain.
Charif
Christian
Carvajal,
Asoex’s marketing director for
The two organisations formally signed a collabora-
Europe and Asia, says the cam-
tive agreement at October’s Fruit Attraction trade exhi-
paign will take advantage of the
bition in Madrid, where they announced their intention
complementary blueberry sea-
to both share information and undertake reciprocal
sons in Chile and Spain and fea-
visits during the campaign.
ture a shared concept, with the
The generic promotion will cover the key export sea-
two countries working close-
sons for both countries, namely November to April and
ly with grocery retailers on the
The new campaign will take advantage of Chile and Spain’s complementary production seasons Speaking at the launch of the campaign, Alberto Garrocho, president of Freshuelva, said: “Freshuelva is proud to sign this agreement with Chile. As an association, we have
been
working
hard
to
strengthen our promotion of blueberries in Spain, and the incorporation of Chile will enable us to create an even more impactful campaign in collaboration with retailers across Spain.” _ E
LEFT—The agreement was signed at
Fruit Attraction in Madrid
32
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.32-33.indd 32
05/12/2017 12:03
briefings
briefing —Berries
RIGHT—Planasa’s
recent success stories include the Adelita raspberry
G
lobal private equity firm
development of value-added prod-
Cinven has signed an
ucts through research and devel-
agreement
opment.
to
acquire
a majority stake in Spain’s Pla-
“The company has shown its
nasa in a deal that will help the
success in the development of high
berry breeder fund its expansion
quality varieties, such as the Adel-
into new markets like Mexico and
ita raspberry; and strong technical
China, as well as into new product
capabilities to provide support ser-
categories.
vices to farmers and distributors.”
Valued at around €450m, Plana-
Cinven praised Alexandre Pier-
sa is a leading player in the devel-
ron-Darbonne’s
opment of new plant varieties and
ship of Planasa, which it said had
nurseries in the soft fruit sector.
helped deliver double-digit growth
It supplies the global market from
in the past five years, and empha-
its 12 production sites located in
sised that he would continue to
Europe, the Americas and Asia and
play a key role in the company
has a global workforce of more
going forward.
than 2,000.
strong
leader-
“It is a great satisfaction to be
Cinven deal boosts Planasa growth plans navarra—Planasa’s takeover by private equity firm Cinven will accelerate its expansion into new markets and product categories. by Maura Maxwell
advantage of their experience in these areas.”
Jorge Quemada, partner and
able to partner with Cinven in
Companies from the fruit and vegetable industry
chief executive of Cinven in Spain,
order to continue our internation-
are becoming an increasingly popular target for pri-
said the growth of the berry catego-
al expansion and optimisation of
vate equity funds. Recent examples include ProA Cap-
ry, fuelled by the trends for healthy
our operations, as well as facilitat-
ital’s takeover of table grape specialist Moyca and
eating and convenience, and Cin-
ing the expansion into new busi-
Miura Capita’s acquisition of citrus giant Martinavar-
ven’s strong focus on consumer
ness areas through continuous
ro. Cinven was one of three companies reportedly
health and wellbeing made Planasa
investment in research and devel-
eyeing up a deal with Planasa. _ E
a good match for the company.
opment,” Pierron-Darbonne said.
“Cinven’s vision for Planasa is
“The combination of its experi-
perfectly in tune with that of its
enced team and its knowhow in the
current management team, which
consumer sector make Cinven the
is highly trained and experienced,
ideal partner for our business. Pla-
and focused on creating a solid
nasa expects to achieve significant
platform to continue its interna-
growth in the coming years, both
tional expansion,” he stated.
at the organic level and through
“Planasa is an industry leader
acquisitions. We look forward to
with a solid reputation in the
working with Cinven and taking
“Planasa’s management team is highly trained and experienced and focused on creating a solid platform to continue its international expansion” january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.32-33.indd 33
33
05/12/2017 12:03
briefings
report —Packaging RIGHT—The system can be used in retail
packaging such as punnets and shakers BELOW RIGHT—The Polymateria team
with Graham Chapman, second left
A
London
company
has
come up with a pioneering solution to help businesses
minimise the impact of plastic on the environment. Polymateria, an organisation based at the Imperial College Innovations I-Hub in London, has developed a range of drop-in additives for plastic products and packaging that cause them to biodegrade over time. One third of the world’s plastic ends up in the natural environment after use and will stay there for hundreds of years, wreaking havoc on the natural environment. A report published last year by US academics – the first ever global analysis of mass-pro-
a shelf-life and use life, but if it escapes into the environ-
duced plastics – found that 8.3bn
ment as a fugitive plastic – as litter for example – it will
tonnes of plastic has been produced
break down and completely biodegrade,” explains Poly-
since the 1950s, most of it ending up
materia’s chief scientific officer Dr Graham Chapman, a
in landfill or oceans, threatening “a
respected global authority in biodegradable polymeric
near permanent contamination of
materials with 30 years experience in the sector.
the natural environment”.
“It is a drop-in additive that can be added to the
Polymateria’s time-controlled biodegradation
technology
provides
packaging companies and manufac-
p.34.indd 34
london—Polymateria’s
normal plastics process without altering the properties
biodegradation technology
of the plastic article and does not require any additional
offers a cost-effective
investment on the part of the processor.”
solution for fresh produce
turers of other plastics with a cost-
The system has a number of applications within the
effective way to make their plastic
fruit and vegetable industry – it can be used in retail pack-
suppliers seeking
biodegradable without affecting its
aging such as punnets and flow-wrap, and also for some
more environmentally
intrinsic properties. The company
of the protective packaging used to transport produce,
is working towards providing end-
including trays, film and shrink wrap. The company is also
responsible packaging
life solutions for all types of plastics,
working on providing biodegradable solutions for agricul-
whether synthetic or bio-based.
ture applications, including mulch film that breaks down
A customised blend of additives is
34
A plastic revolution
in the soil so that the farmer no longer has to remove it.
alternatives. by Maura Maxwell
added to the plastic during the man-
Rather than supplying the final manufactured plastic
ufacturing process. It remains dor-
product, Polymateria sells its technology through licenc-
mant for an agreed timeframe, after
ing agreements with packaging manufacturers, delivering
account for a large part of its sales
which the additives get to work,
bespoke solutions in the form of masterbatch additives.
volume in the medium to long term.
reacting with the oxygen in the air to
In order to bring a product to market Polymateria
Ultimately, he would like to see
break up the polymer chains. What
works with both the retailers and the packaging manu-
the technology used across all rele-
remains is a powder that is “eaten”
facturers. Sometimes the process is driven by demand
vant areas of the fruit and vegetable
by naturally-occurring fungi and
from the retailer, while in other cases the pull comes from
packaging markets. “We also plan to
microbes, leaving just carbon dioxide
the packaging supplier, but in every case Chapman says
continue developing innovative tech-
and water.
both sides need to be involved.
nology solutions relating to end-life
“Our technology allows plastics
The company has developed a range of products for
of plastics for all types of plastic raw
processors to programme the life of
the international fruits and vegetables industry, and
materials over the next few years,” he
a plastics product so that it can have
Chapman envisages that this sector of the market will
concludes. _ E
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
05/12/2017 12:04
Innovation. Inspiration. Insight. FRUITNET WORLD OF FRESH IDEAS is the be place to discover the late and mo important trends in the world of fresh produce. Held one day before the art of FRUIT LOGISTICA, the show’s -paced, multi-channel format focuses on innovation all the way from production to the supermarket shelf. Global expert analysis. Live on age interviews. Video presentations. Audio reports. Networking. All this and much more! Simultaneous translation in English, French, German, Italian, Spanish.
• Disruption in Fresh Produce Distribution: brand new and original research looks at what fresh fruit and vegetable supply chains will look like in future and the implications for those in the indu ry. • Chiquita lifts the lid on its marketing strategy The Greenery: modern marketing methods • How the rise of online is changing food retail • Tesco explains how it’s tackling food waste • Changing trade flows around the world • Avocados: what next for this star performer? • Keeping track of consumer experience • Emerging market opportunities in Asia • Blockchain: better connections for perishables • New ideas in packaging and technology
Plus, receive your invitation to the FRUIT LOGISTICA Welcome Reception
Tuesday, 6 February 2018 13.30 – 18.30, Saal Berlin, Entrance Hall 7, Messedamm 22, 14055 Berlin Delegate pass EUR 112 • Delegate pass plus permanent FRUIT LOGISTICA pass EUR 160
fruitlogi ica.com > tickets For the late information go to
fruitlogi ica.com > events ORGANISED BY
WOFI A4_2.indd 1
05/12/2017 12:42
briefings
report —Desert farming
Bringing life to the desert abu dhabi—The Middle East may be known for its arid conditions, but growers are
ment Diplomacy Group (idg) and
ABOVE—Pure Harvest’s SuprimAir
climate-controlled greenhouse
executive director of economic affairs at the Executive Affairs Authority. Abu Dhabi-based producer Elite
activities need to be good for people,
Agro is one of the leading producers
good for the environment, and good
of locally grown produce, including
for business.”
tomatoes, peppers, aubergines and
For Qatar, food security is the pri-
grow a variety of produce in desert regions
lettuces. According to agriculture
mary concern, as laid out in the gov-
engineer Mohammad Rashid Sulai-
ernment’s
man Al Naqbi, his team uses every-
Imports currently account for more
thing from solar energy to imported
than 90 per cent of the goods con-
seeds and bumblebees from the
sumed by this population of 2m, lead-
Netherlands to improve crop yields
ing to periodic food price surges and
at the farm.
shortages in supply. Due to limited
by Tom Joyce
D
p.36.indd 36
David Scott, president of the Invest-
making use of the latest technologies to in the uae, Jordan and Qatar.
36
sification of regional economies,” said
National
Vision
2030.
uring an era of continually broken record global
“Our biggest challenge is the
supplies of water for irrigation, com-
temperatures and ballooning population num-
weather,” he says. “If it’s too humid,
panies and investors are examining
bers, no stone can afford to be left unturned
flowers become sticky and polli-
the possibility of growing fruit and
when it comes to the task of feeding the world, least of all
nation won’t take place. And high
vegetables using hydroponics.
in the arid Middle East region. In recent years, countries
humidity is also the best climate for
The country is expected to achieve
including the uae, Qatar and Jordan have all invested in
disease. So we’ve got to work to find
approximately 50-70 per cent self-suf-
desert farming.
the right balance.”
ficiency in vegetable production by
uae-based agricultural technology firm Pure Har-
September saw the inauguration
vest plans to establish a 3.3ha site in Nahel to create the
of the Sahara Forest Project launch
under
country’s first high-tech commercial-scale greenhouse
station in Jordan, a unique 3ha facil-
Hamad Hadi Al Hajri, a senior official
for year-round tomato production. The company utilises
ity located outside the port city of
of state-backed Hassad Food Compa-
a “semi-closed climate-controlled growing system”, which
Aqaba. The project, realised with
ny. Given Qatar’s recent isolation by
has been purpose-built to overcome the challenges of
financial support from the Europe-
its Gulf neighbours, such efforts are
year-round production in the Gulf. The company’s pres-
an Union and the Norwegian govern-
essential if the country is to achieve
sure climate control technology can apparently be used
ment, utilises sun, saltwater, desert
any semblance of food security. _ E
for a variety of crops, including tomatoes, bell peppers,
areas and CO2 to produce food, fresh-
cucumbers, aubergines and strawberries.
water and clean energy.
According to the company, the aim of the project is to
Joakim Hauge, chief executive
supply premium produce to retailers, airlines and hospi-
of the Sahara Forest Project, reveals
tality distributors in order to replace imported fruit and
that the ambition of the project is to
vegetables. The uae is currently reliant on imports for
revegetate desert areas and contrib-
around 80 per cent of its food needs.
ute to social development through
“Pure Harvest’s tech-enabled approach to arid climate
the creation of green jobs. “We want
agriculture offers a potential ‘third-way’ through which
to achieve this through profitable
regional actors can not only achieve a sustainable form
production of food, freshwater, bio-
of food security, but also eventually construct export-ori-
fuels and electricity,” he says. “Every-
ented agri-businesses that would create important new
thing we do on the ground in Jordan
sources of foreign exchange, while supporting the diver-
is measured against three goals. Our
2030, when 1,000ha of land will be cultivation,
according
to
Video bit.ly/2uP0M7c
Co-founder Sky Kurtz explains the sustainable philosophy behind Pure Harvest.
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
05/12/2017 12:05
SAVE THE DATE
20 I 21.09.2018 DÜSSELDORF Germany‘s top information and networking event for the entire fresh produce supply chain
FRESHNESS IN FOCUS HIGHLIGHTS • 500+ top decision-makers from the German retail, distribution and production sectors • Great opportunities for networking • Discuss the most important issues affecting the international fresh produce supply chain today • Organised by experts for experts, professional and independent
Further information: dogkmailinglist@fruchthandel.de I www.dogkongress.de
ORGANISED BY
IN COOPERATION WITH
briefings
report —Lettuce
Lift-off for Lebanon lettuce jbeil—Rijk Zwaan’s Lebanese distributor Robinson Agri is using a new technique to improve its lettuce production, reducing water usage amd extending shelf-life. by Carl Collen
L
38
p.38.indd 38
ebanese
horticultural
protection and also young plants and hybrid seeds,”
Lettuce yield with nft is four to
supplier Robinson Agri
El Khoury noted. “Thanks to Rijk Zwaan’s support, we
five times higher, El Khoury out-
has introduced the use
have been able to introduce high-quality varieties like
lined, with soil-grown lettuce is har-
of the nutrient film technique (nft)
mini cucumbers, new lettuce and pepper rootstocks in
vested four times per year, and with
to produce certain lettuce systems,
Lebanon.”
each harvest producing around
after help from Dutch vegetable
The region is a very big sales market for fresh pro-
4,000 plants per 1,000m2. “The nft
seed company Rijk Zwaan. Rob-
duce, El Khoury explained, with Lebanese consumers
method enables seven harvests per
inson Agri, which has been Rijk
eating a lot of salad with any meal of the day. The most
year and a yield of 11,000 plants per
Zwaan’s exclusive distributor in
popular lettuce type is traditionally Cos, but due to the
1,000m2 each time, which is a big dif-
Lebanon since 2000, is using the
rise of ‘new cuisine’, people are becoming increasingly
ference,” El Khoury added. “In terms
technique to produce Lollo Rossa,
interested in other, higher-end lettuce types such as
of other advantages, this method is
Lollo Bionda, Little Gem and Bat-
Lollo Rossa and Little Gem. Fast-food chains such as
more hygienic and reduces water
avia lettuce in a hydroponic chan-
McDonald’s and Burger King are playing a role in this
consumption – not only during crop
nel system, a first for the country’s
too, and since 2007 there has been a growing demand
production, but also when cleaning
growers, with the first five projects
for all kinds of lettuce types, including other countries
the lettuce ready for sale. On top of
already underway.
in the Middle East and North Africa.
that, the production process can be
“We’ve always been a pioneer
“nft enables us to respond to that rising demand,”
automated which saves labour costs.
within our industry, so being the
El Khoury said. “Two years ago our agricultural engi-
And, further down the chain, the
first company to launch profes-
neers joined some Rijk Zwaan employees on an nft
product has a longer shelf-life
sional nft projects in Lebanon fits
study trip to Malaysia. They came back filled with
because the lettuce plants are har-
with that tradition,” said director
such enthusiasm that we set up demos at two of our
vested and sold with their roots still
Nadine El Khoury. We’ve been sup-
trial locations last year. The specialists from Rijk
attached. In other words, nft deliv-
plying top-quality products to hor-
Zwaan helped us, not only with the choice of the right
ers a good return on investment.” _ E
ticultural companies since 1971,
lettuce varieties but also with technical issues such as
and we’ve continuously expanded
fertilisation. They even provided the right packaging,
our range of activities over time.
so that we can answer all the growers’ questions. It’s
Today, we offer turnkey proj-
thanks to their expertise that we’ve been able to launch
ects: greenhouses and greenhouse
nft here. The system costs are considerably higher, of
TOP—Robinson Agri utilsing NFT in
systems, irrigation systems, crop
course, but that’s outweighed by the benefits.”
Lebanese lettuce production
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
05/12/2017 12:41
Sun Fresh Harvest EF January 2018.pdf
1
08/12/2017
12:57
TM
MEXICAN HASS AVOCADOS
briefings
OBITUARY —Rolando Drahorad, 1938-2017
The fresh produce publicist: a tribute to Rolando Drahorad modena—With the passing of ncx Drahorad’s founder, the Italian fruit and vegetable trade has lost one of its leading voices and most effective supporters. by Mike Knowles
He saw the need to publicise that brand, setting up a new department
ABOVE—Drahorad was a widely respected commentator
started the creation of two major, export-oriented producer groups.
dedicated to the business press. It
Two years ago, he began handing
went on to represent several indus-
over responsibility for the running
try titles – including eurofruit,
of ncx Drahorad to his son Thomas,
fresh produce journal in the UK
who for many years had worked as its
and fruchthandel magazine in Ger-
MD and sales director. A gradual tran-
many. He also appreciated the inter-
sition afforded him more time for
net’s huge potential: around the turn
one of his great passions, writing. He
of the millennium, Italy’s first web-
continued to work for ncx Drahorad
based information portal was born,
Media, part of the business run by his
later renamed MyFruit. Shortly after-
wife Cristina Burger, and was able to
wards, he oversaw the creation of
write more regularly for fruchthan-
Fruitecom, a communications and PR
del magazine. He also undertook to
firm specialising in food and wine.
write more about the fresh produce business for his blog QuiFrutta, as
R
40
p.40.indd 40
skilled communicator
well as editorial pieces for eurofruit,
olando Drahorad, a leading player in Italy’s
One of Rolando’s many strengths
Corriere Ortofrutticolo, Frutticoltura
fruit and vegetable business and one of its
was his mastery of languages. Born
and MyFruit.
most prominent publicists, has passed away in
and raised in Merano, South Tyrol,
A blogger and a journalist, he saw
Modena at the age of 79. The loss to the trade, not to men-
he moved to Bologna at a young age
himself as a fresh produce industry
tion to this very magazine, is considerable: Rolando not
and was soon helping to select apples
commentator, and preferred the blog
only helped companies to grow and flourish, but was also
for export out of Emilia-Romagna. In
format to printed paper, it has been
a great supporter of publications, including eurofruit, as
1961, working in Vignola, Cesena and
suggested, in deference to the jour-
important partners in promoting that expansion.
Ferrara, he was very much the nerve
nalist friends he loved and respected,
The majority of his working life centred on his com-
centre of the apple, pear and cherry
and with whom he spoke regularly. At
pany ncx Drahorad. He steered its development as an
export business. When a group of
the same time, he was always looking
export service provider to key international clients while
exporters was looking for an experi-
for new ways to improve the image,
simultaneously creating a major force in the communica-
enced, multilingual business director,
pride and self-esteem of Italy’s fresh
tions arena. From his home in northern Italy, between the
he was the man. He led the company
produce business. In that sense, it’s
group’s headquarters in Emilia-Romagna and his native
Comunexport
clear he had already succeeded. _ E
South Tyrol, he travelled the world to promote Italy’s
changing it to ncx Drahorad in 1984.
for
several
years,
fresh produce, always convinced of the importance of cre-
A real passion for the fresh pro-
The Fruitnet Media International
ating value along the supply chain. Even more than a half
duce business remained in his blood.
group extends its heartfelt condolenc-
century ago, he was among the first to begin selling Ita-
In late 2010, convinced of the impor-
es to Rolando’s family, including his
ly’s apples and cherries to customers abroad. As leader of
tance of concentrating supply in
wife Cristina, son Thomas, daughter
Vignola’s fruit export consortium, he was instrumental in
order to create value in the Italian
Carla and six grandchildren, and his
establishing the Ciliegia di Vignola trademark, one of the
pear business, he brought the cate-
colleagues at ncx Drahorad, Fruite-
industry’s earliest examples of brand marketing.
gory’s key players together and kick-
com and MyFruit.
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
05/12/2017 12:43
together with 同期举办
Asia’s fresh produce trading hub AsiaWorldExpo, Hong Kong 亚洲新鲜 果蔬行业 贸易中心 2018年9月 5– 7 日 中国香港 亚洲国际 博览馆
5– 7 September 2018
ASIA FRUIT LOGISTICA Fruitnet_AFL2018_210x297.indd 1
www.asiafruitlogistica.com 11.08.2017 08:29:37
banana special report —International Banana Congress
Banana boost miami—Despite numerous challenges linked to pests and disease, the outlook for the banana business looks extremely positive. Michael Barker rounds up the best of the news from this autumn’s International Banana Congress in Miami. by Michael Barker
Record banana imports for EU The
European
Union
quarter
2017
year-on-year,
according to figures presented is
set
to import a record volume of
42
of
by Carolina Dawson of French research centre Cirad.
bananas this year as consump-
The EU market is supplied by
tion continues to rise across the
three key regions – the so-called
continent. The 28 countries of the
‘dollar’ zone of Latin American
EU imported some 6.1m tonnes
countries; the acp (African, Carib-
of bananas in 2016, up from 5.9m
bean and Pacific) countries; and
tonnes in 2015 and 5.4m tonnes in
the islands owned by European
2014; this represents an average
nations themselves, such as Mar-
four per cent growth rate since
tinique, Guadeloupe, the Canar-
2012, and a 21 per cent increase
ies and so on. The dollar zone
since 2006.
accounts for 72 per cent of banana
That trend is set to contin-
supply to the EU (up 2.5 per cent
ue with five per cent growth in
last year), acp is 19.9 per cent (up
imports recorded for the first
1.6 per cent), and the European
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.42-44.indd 42
05/12/2017 12:17
banana special
OPPOSITE—The
International
territories 11.8 per cent, a figure which is stable.
Vitamin A bananas hold key in Africa
can provide a high percentage of the vitamin A requirements of a
Many of the key producer
Bananas have huge potential to
was held in Miami,
nations are increasing their exports
increase nutritional levels, par-
Florida
to the EU. Leading supplier Ecuador
ticularly
people
ies also scored well for flavour
BELOW LEFT—
is sending six per cent more banan-
who suffer because of vitamin
in consumer tests, and Bioversi-
as in 2017 than the 2014-2016 aver-
deficiencies in east Africa, new
ty International has already pre-
age, with Colombia shipping 16 per
research indicates.
pared training manuals for how
Banana Congress
Cirad’s Carolina Dawson RIGHT—Dr
to use them in food production,
Onyango of
a scientist at Bioversity Interna-
as well as developing recipes with
Bioversity
per cent more, Ghana 44 per cent
tional, said new studies revealed
usage suggestions. In east Africa,
International
more, Peru 11 per cent, Guatemala 81
bananas to be a rich source of vita-
bananas are ubiquitous in a wide
per cent, Honduras 157 per cent and
min A, meaning the fruit could
range of meals and foodstuffs,
Nicaragua a staggering 695 per cent
prove to be a valuable alternative
with the average person consum-
more.
to supplements among people suf-
ing 250-400kg of the fruit every
fering with compromised immune
year, or between three and 11
systems.
bananas a day.
EU market comes on the back of increased
consumption
Beatrice
Crucially, the selected variet-
cent. The Ivory Coast is sending 16
The growing interest in the
Dr
those
Ekesa-Onyango,
Beatrice Ekesa-
cent more and Costa Rica 13 per
among
healthy child,” she pointed out.
among
European consumers, with Europeans eating an average of 12kg of bananas per person per year. “There are still very interesting margins for growth in eastern Europe, where it’s only 8kg/person,” Dawson said. “And 2017 will establish a consumption record in the EU.” Growth in banana imports is being driven by production expansion in countries such as Colombia, Panama, Guatemala, Ivory Coast, Cameroon, Ghana and the Dominican Republic, she explained, as well as a 1.3kg/person increase in consumption since 2013 in the EU, and a more liberalised and competitive supply market since 2006.
east Africa, Onyango said children
Banana production to rise… literally
Outlining the results of work in
But it’s not all good news, with
and women of childbearing age
Global warming could result in
Dawson warning of alarmingly
were particularly at risk of blind-
more regions of the world being
low prices and reduced returns to
ness and even death as a result of
able to support banana produc-
banana suppliers.
vitamin A deficiency, and called
tion, but that change won’t be
for a food-based approach to tack-
without its challenges.
ling the problem, with bananas at
There are still very interesting margins for growth in eastern Europe, and 2017 will also establish a consumption record in the European Union
the forefront.
That was the view of José Manuel Gálvez, research meteo-
Bioversity International has
rologist at the scientific agency
been running a project to iden-
noaa in the US, who told the con-
tify varieties high in vitamin A,
gress that climate models indicate
with 15 varieties from locations as
there will be an increase in the
diverse as the Philippines, Papua
frequency of droughts in banana-
New Guinea and Hawaii having
producing areas such as Central
been selected for further trial.
America and the Amazon basin.
Varieties with a particularly high
With that could come associ-
vitamin A content include To’o,
ated problems such as a greater
Apantu, Bira and Lahi. “Just one
incidence of pests in areas such as
finger from one of these varieties
northern Colombia, he warned.
»
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.42-44.indd 43
43
05/12/2017 12:17
banana special
Rising temperatures will mean areas previously considered unsuitable for bananas will come into play But rising temperatures will mean areas that were previous-
Costa Rica hopeful over UK trade Costa
Rican
officials
BELOW—Manuel Gálvez at the International Banana Congress
have
expressed confidence that trade with Britain will continue unbroken following Britain’s exit from place with Costa Rica, and expressed hope that will
the EU. Some 7.4 per cent of the Central
happen.
American nation’s banana exports
Meanwhile Costa Rica’s foreign trade minster
go to the UK, and maintaining
Alexander Mora told the congress that the govern-
that relationship is a key priority
ment wants to maintain its crucial trade routes with
for producers.
the EU and UK. “I don’t want to get ahead of myself,
ly considered unsuitable for pro-
Jorge Sauma, chief executive
as I’m clear it’s an important challenge we face,” he
ducing bananas – a product which
of the Costa Rican banana cor-
said. “Some people say it’s a perfect storm but I can
requires warm weather – could
poration Corbana, said that at a
say that you can count on Costa Rica, which will
start to come into play. “This will
recent meeting with the Univer-
work hard to take the decisions [required] to over-
allow the relocation of banana
sity of Exeter, both sides stressed
come this challenge.”
production into higher altitudes,
the desire to continue to trade at
though it may require more irri-
the current level.
Moín port to open in January 2019
gation,” he said. A further compli-
“It’s difficult to forecast, but
cation would face producers who
what I feel is logical is to work
also grow crops such as coffee on
together to maintain what we
Kenneth Waugh, director general at apm Termi-
mixed farms if both are not suited
have in Europe,” Sauma said. “We
nals, updated delegates at the International Banana
to the new location, he added.
Costa Rica’s new US$1 billion Moín port is on course to open in January 2019, officials have confirmed.
consider our fruit to be present
Congress in Miami on the progress of the ground-
Analysis of climate change
in the UK and we hope to be able
breaking project, which he said would propel Costa
data illustrates that average tem-
to maintain that market, which
Rica to become one of the leading players in Latin
peratures increased across large
is very important for us. At the
American port logistics.
parts of Central America and
moment it’s expectation more
The first phase of the project has seen the con-
Brazil between 1950 and 2000,
than reality as we don’t know
struction of an artificial island - the first of its kind
Gálvez pointed out. Large parts
what is going to happen, but we
in Latin America - as well as a new road network and
of central America have also seen
think that we will maintain the
racks. The port will ultimately feature six cranes and
a notable decrease in rainfall –
market.”
the capability to handle 16,000 teu New Panamax
although that trend is less clear
Sauma said the most logi-
ships. Currently Costa Rica cannot handle larger
cut – while there has also been a
cal option seemed to be if the UK
than the older Panamax ships, which have a maxi-
slight drop in ground humidity in
simply
mum capacity of 5,000 teu.
the same region.
arrangements that the EU has in
duplicates
the
current
The first phase of the build, which will be able to take ships up to 14,500 teu in size, will be operational by January 2019, Waugh said, with the site featuring technology such as computerised access and control, scanners and low-carbon electrical equipment. “We have been limited in logistics [in Costa Rica],” he explained. “For a long time the world has improved and we have been left behind. The Moín project is building the most efficient terminal in Latin America and it’s a symbol of progress. “Currently we are using feeder ships to connect to those big ships, but no shipping line is requesting smaller ships – there is a trend towards bigger, more efficient new ships and we want to be able to connect to those in one step. We will be able to take the biggest ships if it’s economically feasible at the end of phase two. Costa Rica will be able to increase its competitiveness as a result.” _ E
44
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.42-44.indd 44
05/12/2017 12:17
Untitled-2 1
12/12/2017 14:30
banana special
report —Future growth LEFT—QUT’s Professor James Dale
While the gmb might have a point, suppliers point out the fact that it’s not as simple as all that, as Cavendish has proven to be the one variety hardy enough to hold quality and flavour when shipped over long distances. The banana industry is not blind to the issue, and in fact what looks like a major breakthrough came last month with the news that researchers at Australia’s Queensland University of Technology (qut) have developed and grown modified Cav-
Winning the race
endish bananas resistant to tr4. In what is described as a worldfirst result on a GM field trial conducted in heavily tr4-infest-
brisbane—There’s double good news for the banana trade, as Australian
ed soil, one Cavendish line trans-
research maps a potential Panama Disease solution while consumption of
formed with a gene taken from a
the fruit continues to increase.
wild banana remained completely tr4 free, while three others showed robust resistance.
by Michael Barker
“These results are very exciting because it means we have a solution that can be used for controlling
here are signs that things
The figures are particularly welcome at a time when
this disease,” said trial leader Profes-
are taking a distinctly
the global banana industry has a lot on its plate. One
sor James Dale. “We have a Caven-
upbeat turn in the global
of the biggest talking points at both the recent Inter-
dish banana that is resistant to this
banana sector, as increasing con-
national Banana Congress in Miami and World Banana
fungus that could be deployed, after
sumption and a potential break-
Forum in Geneva was the potential impact of tr4, a new
deregulation, for growing in soils
through in the battle against tr4
race of Panama Disease, on long-term production of
that have been infested with tr4.”
combine to end the year on a posi-
the fruit. The pathogen has been picked up across Asia,
Researchers have now begun an
tive note. Growth in consumption
Africa and Australia, and there are fears it could ulti-
expanded field trial on the same
and record import volumes across
mately reach Latin America.
Northern Territory plantation, and
T
46
the EU, as noted by Cirad, appear to
This led to the unusual situation of the UK’s gmb
will have the capacity to grow up
reflect bananas’ hardiness in the face
trade union issuing a press release in November warn-
to 9,000 plants and quantify crop
of stiff sales competition from ber-
ing consumers of the threat of tr4 to future banana
yields over the five-year trial. They
ries and other fruits.
production, and by extension to the thousands of work-
hope that through gene editing,
“I’m quite pleased there’s still
ers that rely upon it for their livelihoods. “Unless there
they will be able to switch on a resis-
some volume growth in a very
is a fundamental shift in production methods, away
tant gene from the original wild dip-
mature category,” comments Simon
from exploitative, environmentally destructive planta-
loid banana.
Trewin, group commercial director
tion monoculture, it is only a matter of time before the
While tr4 might not have hit the
at UK-based importer SH Pratt. He
disease takes hold with devastating consequences for
main production areas supplying
says fears that the hurricane, storms
exports to Europe,” said gmb international officer Bert
Europe yet, there is little doubt it’s
and flooding that hit the Caribbean
Schouwenburg. “The system for the production and
high on growers’ list of concerns, and
and Central America in September
trade of dessert bananas is little more than a house of
if there’s a solution it can only be good
might result in a significant tight-
cards built on the shaky foundations of monoculture
news for the sector. Particularly if
ening of supply did not eventually
and genetic uniformity. This house of cards threatens
that positive consumption trend is to
materialise.
to collapse at any moment.”
continue. _ E
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.46-47.indd 46
05/12/2017 12:19
banana special
interview —Jorge Sauma, Corbana
T
he banana sector is never without its challenges, but this does feel like a time of greater complexity than ever before.
Corbana’s full inbox
Whether it’s the creeping threat of tr4, weather challenges, supermarket price pressure, the impending
miami—With Costa Rica facing challenges from the
EU free-trade deal with Colombia and Ecuador or the
weather, changing market conditions and pricing, industry
uncertainty of Brexit, there’s plenty to think about. Jorge Sauma, the convivial general manager of
body Corbana has much to keep it occupied.
Costa Rican banana corporation Corbana, is taking it all in his stride. He’s seen it all before, and recently his
by Michael Barker
focus has been on the yo-yoing production following bad weather in 2015, which saw output plummet to just 101 million boxes, before shooting up to a record high of 121m a year later. “This year we have the same level of production, but the market is so complicated because there has been too much fruit from Colombia, Ecuador and the Philippines, and the temperature was high in Europe leading to lower consumption,” he told Fruitnet at the International Banana Congress in Miami. “It was difficult to relocate all this fruit but the situation is better now. There’s more consumption and maybe the market will recover a little bit.” Costa Rica prides itself on its high social standards, and the country’s producers have reached a point where there is zero waste going into rivers, reducing chemical applications through its Banaclima programme and further work in water recycling. “We are still investing in trying to become better,” he says. “We already have 10 years of our biological control laboratory and molecular biology and we are intending to do further biological control as we move forward.” The introduction of a free-trade agreement between the EU and Colombia, Peru and Ecuador threatens to create a new dynamic in a market that was finally settling down after years of wranglings over tariffs, and Costa Rica is watching developments closely. “We were fighting for 19 years and only had 10 years of peace, and it will become a difficult situation
“We were fighting for 19 years and only had 10 years of peace – and it will become difficult when the market opens fully – but the market will adjust”
when the market opens up totally,” he warns. “But I feel that the market will adjust.”
to do that with fresh produce like bananas, because
At least consumption is rising in Europe, and that
the weakest part of the chain is the grower, and all
will help with the additional banana tonnage arriv-
the pressure will go to the grower. A German consum-
ing on the market, with countries such as Guatema-
er told me that the banana is very low priced when
la having increased production significantly. Greater
compared to the rest of the fruit. It’s not fair. When
demand might help with retail prices too – an ongo-
you produce bananas you take on a lot of risk – hur-
ing concern in the banana sector, which has long
ricanes, high temperature, plagues, diseases etc. It’s
complained that shelf prices do not reflect produc-
very important to get a fair price.”
tion costs.
ABOVE—Jorge
Sauma at the International Banana Congress in Miami
Whether there is any price uplift is debatable, but
“There is a problem with this war of the super-
with consumption strengthening, Costa Rica should
markets,” Sauma says. “The problem is when they are
be well placed to take advantage of the increasing
fighting to the lowest price I consider that it’s not fair
demand. _ E
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.46-47.indd 47
47
05/12/2017 12:19
banana special
report —Disease management
F
aced with the threat of multiple pests and diseases, banana producers in African, Caribbean and Pacific countries are
increasingly looking to alternative integrated pest management (ipm) strategies to build a long-term sustainable future, according to crop management company Biobest. Along with Real ipm Kenya, Biobest is a partner of the EU-sponsored Horizon 2020 project, ‘Microbial uptakes for sustainable management of major banana pests and diseases’ (musa). The inaugural meeting of the project took place last year in Tenerife, with Dr Lieselot Van der Veken of Biobest and Collins Wanyama of Real ipm in attendance. Dr Henry Wainwright of Real ipm Kenya commented: “This project offers a great opportunity to achieve sustainable intensification of Musa spp [banana] and ensete crops, through identification, development and implementation of ipm based on beneficial microorganisms.” The banana sector in the Canary Islands, the Caribbean and Africa suffers yearly crop losses worth billions of euros as a result of nematodes, weevils and Panama disease. In regions such as subSaharan Africa, millions of farmers rely on bananas, plantains and ensete for both food and income. For such farmers, pesticides no longer represent a sustainable option for controlling disease, according to Biobest, with many being progressively withdrawn or highly restricted. “Increasingly, we are seeing the increased demand by consumers for lower pesticide use in
Protecting the banana billions
food crops,” said Biobest’s Van der Veken. “This project has a real opportunity to deliver sustainable crop protection solutions through the expanded use of microbes that will have the opportunity to replace pesticides. Increasingly there are new pathogens threatening this global crop and only by
tenerife—An EU-backed project aiming to find alternative
determined international cooperation can we tackle
pest and disease management strategies for banana
these challenges.”
producers in acp countries has taken place in Tenerife.
The project, which is set to run for the next four years, draws together partner organisations from Italy, Spain, Belgium, the UK, Costa Rica and Cuba,
by Tom Joyce
as well as Kenya. According to Biobest, a major part of the project will be the “identification and evaluation of endophytes and biocontrol agents integrated with banana plant germplasm to develop informa-
ABOVE—Collins Wanyama of Real IPM (left) on location
with Biobest’s Dr Lieselot Van der Veken
48
p.48.indd 48
tion-based ipm strategies that have been tested in a variety of field conditions”. _ E
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
05/12/2017 12:23
Untitled-1 1
08/12/2017 11:32
banana special
interview —Eduardo Ledesma, AEBE
Plenty of room for Ecuador to expand guayaquil—The president of Ecuador’s banana export association Eduardo Ledesma explains why productivity gains and improved market access are fuelling Ecuador’s growth. by Maura Maxwell
ow would you sum up the
shows that between January and July of 2017 there
The minister also stated during a
past year for Ecuadorean
was an 11 per cent increase in banana shipments to the
recent visit to London that Ecua-
banana exports?
EU compared with the previous year and that Ecuador
dor is keen to negotiate a trade
now commands a 27 per cent share of the EU market,
deal with the UK once it has left
Eduardo Ledesma: During the first
up from 26 per cent in 2016. This clearly shows that
the European Union. Do you think
six months of the year our exports
we were losing market share as a result of the tariffs.
this will be good in terms of banana
grew by 2.68 per cent compared to
Since signing the multi-party trade agreement Ecuador
exports?
the year-earlier period, broadly in
enjoys very similar trade conditions to our competitors
line with our expectations. At the
in Central America and Colombia and we are taking
EL: The UK is a marginal market for
same time we saw an increase in
advantage of this fact.
Ecuador as it is mostly supplied by
H
exports from Central America and
its former colonies. However, a trade
Colombia, leading to a rise in vol-
I understand that Ecuador’s position is also changing
deal could help to boost our exports
umes in our main markets which
on the Russian market. In what way?
to this market – although given
caused prices to fall – in many cases EL: That’s true. We are consolidating our position in
ed until Britain’s exit from the EU
this market as the number of Russian retailers look-
has been finalised, this won’t be for
Do you think that Ecuador will be
ing to enter into fixed price programmes increases. In
another two to three years.
able to increase its market share in
spite of its economic difficulties, the Russian market is
Europe now that tariffs are coming
growing once again – by 8.64 per cent in the first half of
What inroads has Ecuador made in
down under the terms of the new
2017. It’s not surprising that a growing number of super-
the Asian market?
trade agreement with the Europe-
markets want to enter into long-term relationships
an Union?
with our exporters. In fact, one of the objectives of For-
EL: Ecuador saw a steep rise in
to below-cost levels.
50
that no trade deal can be negotiat-
eign Trade Minister Pablo Campana during his visit to
banana shipments to China three
EL: I have no doubt that it will not
Russia in November was to improve access and trading
years ago when we were able to
be long before Ecuador regains its
conditions for Ecuadorean bananas in order to prevent
capitalise on the supply short-
market share. Data from Eurostat
future price collapses.
age caused by production issues in
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.50-51.indd 50
05/12/2017 12:23
banana special
Snapshot of banana production in Ecuador According to Ecuador’s Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, Aquaculture and Fisheries (magap), there are 4,473 banana producers in the country who between them cover an area of 162,236ha. The vast majority of this centres on small family-run operations, with farms of less than 30ha accounting for 78 per cent of production and farms of less than 100ha making up 95.6 per cent of total output. sit like Ecuador. Although the political and commer-
Farms are concentrated
cial relationship between China and the Philippines is
primarily in the provinces of
sometimes fraught, things have improved recently.
El Oro, Guayas and Los Ríos, home to 41 per cent, 34 per cent
Are we seeing more specialisation among Ecuadorean
and 16 per cent of producers
growers towards products such as baby bananas and
respectively.
red bananas?
Around 80,000ha are currently certified by GlobalGAP,
EL: Production of these kinds of specialist lines is grow-
in comparison to just 48,000ha
ing, but it remains to be seen whether this is benefit-
in 2010. Additionally, 16,000ha
China and the Philippines. However,
ing growers. If it were then one would expect them to
are certified under Rainforest
this is no longer the case and send-
account for a higher proportion of exports – at present
Alliance and 10,000ha under
ings to China actually contracted by
they make up less than 1 per cent of international trade.
Fair Trade.
3 per cent in the first six months of 2017. The fall would have been great-
So where do you see the best opportunities for Ecua-
productivity levels. We have secured
er had it not been for the fact that
dor’s banana industry over the coming years?
an agreement between producers
exports to Japan recovered during
and exporters to fix the minimum
that period. There has been strong
EL: I am absolutely certain that we will improve our
support price for 2018 at US$6.20 per
growth in this market over the past
position in the European market. We have more than
43-lb box and US$8.01 per box fob –
two years, during which we’ve also
enough production to supply that market. Elsewhere,
a fact which reflects the current
seen a change in terms of what the
we are seeing a rise in exports to some of the [former]
reality of the international market.
market is demanding, with many
Soviet states such as Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan and
Now it’s up to the Ecuadorean gov-
importers now asking for 43lb boxes
believe there is good potential in these markets. Brazil
ernment to eliminate all the unnec-
rather than 208lb boxes.
could another interesting option once we are able to
essary barriers to export growth
gain unfettered access to the market, while Africa also
and improve market access so that
Why do you think Ecuador has been
presents plenty of opportunities if and when the politi-
we can go on increasing our share of
unable to maintain its position in
cal and economic situation becomes more stable. Ocea-
the global market. _ E
China after the recovery in the pro-
nia is another growing market for Ecuadorean bananas
duction of the Philippines?
and one that I believe will maintain its current volume in the immediate future.
EL: It must be remembered that the main supplier to China is the Phil-
Would you say the industry is well positioned to meet
ippines and enjoys a significant
the challenges of the global market?
advantage geographically, being just
ABOVE—Eduardo Ledesma is president
of the Asociación de Exportadores de Banano del Ecuador
a few days away from the market as
EL: We are working hard to create new alliances
ABOVE LEFT—Most banana farms in the
opposed to having a 30-day tran-
between the public and private sectors in order to raise
country cover less than 100ha
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.50-51.indd 51
51
05/12/2017 12:23
banana special
comment —Banana disease
‘Black Death’ of bananas puts TR4 in the shade valencia—Much has been made recently of the potential disaster awaiting Latin America’s banana business at the hands of Tropical Race 4, but the threat posed by Black Sigatoka is arguably far more serious.
E
Manuel Madrid Fruit Profits manuel.madrid@fruitprofits.com Manuel’s firm Fruit Profits specialises in produce innovation and process improvement
very once in a while over the last fifteen years, we’ve seen menacing articles in fruit trade journals and even international newspapers about the inexorable end of world banana production and trade due to the expansion of a new strain of the fungus Fusarium oxysporum, known commonly as Tropical Race 4 (tr4). According to these prophets of doom, it is only a matter of time before tr4 arrives in Latin America and wipes out entire banana plantations. We will only remember bananas in pictures. We cannot deny that tr4 is a potential threat to the banana indus-
RIGHT—Effects of
try. However, today, this threat has
the devastating
not materialised. Even in a large pro-
black sigatoka fungus in Quindió, Colombia
ducing country where this pathogen is present, such as The Philippines, the damage has been controlled and
Photo: Neil
has only affected about 1,000ha of the
Palmer, ciat
85,000ha of Cavendish-type banana export plantations.
So, in my opinion, the danger of
Its name could not be more
This control has been achieved in
Fusarium Race 4 annihilating the
appropriate: Black Sigatoka really
the Philippines through a combina-
banana industry is overstated. We
is the Black Death of bananas. It
tion of severe measures that involve
can only wonder who benefits from
is a fungus that attacks the leaves
strict quarantine, irrigation water fil-
spreading such fears.
and can wipe out whole plantations
tering and flood prevention. There is
52
within two to three months, even
no reason to believe that these mea-
Clear and present danger
those being treated with fungicides.
sures would not work also in Latin
There is, however, a devastating
Even if it does not annihilate the
America. In fact, according to some
banana disease present in almost all
plant, this fungus releases a toxin
Philippine producers and technical
banana-producing areas in the trop-
which induces the premature rip-
managers, the bacterial disease Moko
ics, about which no such scary arti-
ening of banana bunches, rendering
(caused by Ralstonia solanacearum)
cles are being written, and which
them unfit for export.
leads to more damage and plant
today poses a much larger threat
losses in the country than tr4 itself.
than tr4.
It is also an extremely versatile fungus, with reproductive cycles
»
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.52-54.indd 52
05/12/2017 12:24
Fruits that come with fresh ideas. Are you looking for a wide range of premium fruits and vegetables and a strong, trusted brand that listens to your needs and caters to your tastes? Innovative products and creative market services? Look no further. Partner with Dole!
www.dole.eu
Visit us at Fruit Logistica 2018 Exhibition Berlin Hall 6.2 | Booth A-02
banana special
every three weeks in optimum conditions. It can change from sexual to asexual stages according to weather conditions – hence its two scientific names, Pseudocercospora fijiensis or Micosphaerella fijiensis – ensuring its adaptation and survival in all tropical climates. Adapting and reproducing in this way, Black Sigatoka can mutate very rapidly, and can present resistance to new fungicides in a matter of a few years. In some production areas, it presents resistance to several fungicides at the same time. Sigatoka really is a champion of adaptability and fitness. The hunt for Black Sigatoka The origin of Micosphaerella fijiensis lies in south-east Asia. It was first discovered in Fiji, before being identified in Honduras in 1973. Its spread was tracked throughout Latin America in a matter of years. In fact, it was so aggressive that it completely displaced its more benign relative Yellow Sigatoka (Micosphaerella musicola). Whereas the latter was mostly kept under control using agricultural oil and some copper compounds, Black
The situation has reached an
A real research and implementa-
Sigatoka required more active and aggressive chemi-
unstable equilibrium with substan-
tion effort is needed to find new ways
cals if it is to be contained, plus more frequent sprays.
tial amounts of chemicals being used
of controlling the disease that reduce
Soon, the disease began to develop resistance against the
and weekly aerial sprays. The sus-
or eliminate current fungicide use
most widely used fungicides and the frequency of sprays
tainability of the current production
and aerial application. The banana
needed started to increase. So-called systemic fungicides
system is questioned, however. In
industry requires basic research on
with new modes of action against the infection were
the EU, for example, aerial spraying
the mechanisms of infection of the
introduced, only to be overcome some years later by Black
is banned to prevent droplets drifting
disease, and how to induce natu-
Sigatoka’s amazing adaptability.
to neighbourhoods and waterways.
ral resistance in banana plants. New
The strategy of disease control thus shifted to so-called
Banning aerial spraying in banana
mechanisms of application that sub-
‘cocktails’ of several fungicides, but the residual fungicid-
production countries today would
stitute aerial application are needed.
al effect lasted less and less every year. Finally, in the 1990s,
mean the end of banana production
All this effort is needed, especially at
some banana companies started spraying ‘protectant’ fun-
as we know it.
a time when most banana companies
gicides on a weekly basis. These kill the fungus on contact, The sum of all fears
some systemic fungicides high, banana plantations world-
With no chemical or varietal solu-
its related service industries have
wide are sprayed aerially every 5-7 days on a continuous
tion in sight, and knowing the adapt-
solved
basis, in order to protect every single leaf that emerges
ability of the fungus, the future
problems in the past. With consum-
weekly in the plantation.
The private banana business and significant
technological
sustainability of production is com-
ers and the beautiful environments
This is not only an environmental hazard, but a huge
promised. As of today, Black Sigatoka
of banana-producing countries the
cost per hectare to all banana producers. Only in those
is a real threat, both now and in the
greatest potential beneficiaries, our
places where there is a marked dry season, like Ecuador or
future; whereas tr4 is still a ‘poten-
hope is that it will likewise be able
Santa Marta in Colombia, do sprays diminish during the
tial’ threat.
to solve these challenges in the
dry season.
54
have slashed their r&d budgets.
but do not have a residual effect. Today, with resistance to
However, is there real interest in
Today there does not seem to be a sustainable solution
finding a sustainable solution to the
to Black Sigatoka and regular spraying in sight. Banana
Black Sigatoka problem? Agrochemi-
production worldwide is based on very few clones of the
cal companies profit from agrochem-
Cavendish group of varieties (mostly Grand Nain, Valery
ical sales; aerial spraying companies
and Williams). Genetically they are very similar and very
make their revenues thanks to Sigato-
susceptible to the disease. A few resistant varieties have
ka; many workers and some research-
been developed, but do not meet the taste and quality
ers are employed in order to control
standards that the market requires.
the disease.
future. _ E
ABOVE—A Colombian worker prepares
to tackle Black Sigatoka with a new fungicide made from local plant residues Photo: Neil Palmer, ciat
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.52-54.indd 54
05/12/2017 14:07
2018
INTERPOMA
lars.it
INTERNATIONAL TRADE SHOW FOR THE CULTIVATION, STORAGE AND MARKETING OF APPLES 15TH - 17TH NOVEMBER 2018 / BOLZANO, ITALY Thu - Sat: 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
SAVE THE DATE
2018
INTERPOMA CHINA JUNE 27 TH-29 TH, 2018 WEIHAI, CHINA
www.interpoma.it
IPO18-2491719-A4-eng.indd 1
29/11/17 15:05
banana special
interview —Marike de Peña, Clac
A fair future for bananas work far more hand in hand with
london—An exclusive interview from
the media to promote, not just
Fresh Produce Journal with Marike de
Fairtrade, but sustainability as a
Peña, chair of the Latin American Fairtrade
whole. Maybe in 10 years we could
producer network (Clac) and director of
remove the mark itself, because the principle will be global, and that
Dominican Republic cooperative Banelino.
would be the best thing we could ever achieve in Fairtrade. It’s not
by Nina Pullman
about the mark, it’s about what we need to do globally to be sustainable for the poor people in the south and
W
hat’s your impression of the situation at the
the businesses in the north.
moment in terms of workers’ rights in the banana industry? Has it changed since you
began with Clac in 2006?
Have producer prices fallen or better than the minimum; and
increased in bananas?
we are environmentally-focused. Marike de Peña: Inside Fairtrade, we have seen real
For producers, the standards are
MP: I’m from an acp country and
progress and empowerment over time. We’ve also seen
tools for development, more than
definitely the prices have been
more challenges. There are topics like climate change
requirements imposed from the
lower than the year before. This
that really put you back. We see also, and maybe more
outside.
year the UK is buying a lot of banan-
relevant for the UK market, there is more than ever
as from acp countries, and the tar-
a pressure on price, which can seriously affect not
Where does Fairtrade sit in dis-
iffs have been lower. In principle we
just social, but environmental sustainability. So while
putes between workers and man-
are going up, if you have your infla-
Fairtrade had huge opportunity to grow and really have
agers, such as the recent Fyffes
tion level high, price is also going
an impact on people’s lives, I now see some challenges.
suspension from the Ethical Trade
up relatively, but not necessarily on
Initiative?
a producer level. In the Dominican
What is your opinion of in-house sustainability
Republic, we lost 50 per cent of pro-
schemes, such as Sainsbury’s Fairly Traded tea and
MP: It is an extremely difficult
duction this year, even more than
Mondelez’ Cocoa Life?
topic. What we believe as Clac and
last year when we lost 40 per cent.
Fairtrade is there should not be ten-
It is challenging. We are now fight-
MP: I think it needs to be a combination. I think every
sion between workers and the com-
ing to get back into the market.
company has specific extra goals they want to achieve,
pany that employs them. It doesn’t
and they can’t find that in any certification scheme. I
get you anywhere. What we need
How
would say we should not criticise any sustainability
to build up is dialogue and trust
become more environmentally sus-
initiative because every initiative is trying to do some-
between the parties, and the under-
tainable?
thing better. But switching from an external initiative
standing that organisation is a
that has been built up, in the case of Fairtrade, from the
good thing, for the company and
MP: What we’re doing in Clac and
producer upward for something else – I think the com-
for the workers themselves. If there
Fairtrade is promoting the self-pro-
bination would have been a perfect choice.
is a tension that explodes like this,
duction of organic fertilisers. It’s
something has gone wrong with
cheaper, better and we have seen
the dialogue.
enormous reduction in pesticides
What are the strengths of Fairtrade for you as a banana producer?
banana
production
among conventional farmers, and What do you see as the limitations
MP: It’s the combination of the three pillars. It’s eco-
can
better productivity. _ E
of Fairtrade?
nomic because we have a minimum price, and we revise
56
p.56.indd 56
it yearly to make sure it covers the sustainable cost of
MP: I don’t see weaknesses in the
production; we have the social aspect, where we work
scheme as it is, but we don’t have
ABOVE—Marike de Peña says she sees
on empowering producers so they can negotiate even
worldwide acceptance. We need to
challenges ahead with Fairtrade
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
05/12/2017 12:54
features report —Italy
Battaglio makes beeline for big boost in demand turin—Italian importer says its new brand identity is designed to capitalise on recent growing interest in healthy eating among consumers and retailers. by Mike Knowles
I
talian fresh produce company
From its modest origins as a
exotics, especially bananas and
Battaglio has unveiled a new cor-
trader on the Turin wholesale
pineapples but also citrus, grapes,
porate identity that it says will
market, the company has become
melons, kiwifruit and pears –
help to reinvigorate consumer
one of Italy’s leading fresh fruit
the company is now a major ser-
interest in fresh fruit and vege-
importers, as well as a key player
vice provider to the modern retail
tables, while reflecting its desire
on the international fresh pro-
trade, which currently accounts
to keep meeting the growing
duce market with its own opera-
for 80 per cent of its annual
demand for fresh produce it sees
tions in Argentina. The arrival of
traded volume. In 2017, it expects
in the market. The new image,
what its head of marketing Stefa-
to see its overall revenue rise by
which incorporates a marketing
no Minola refers to as ‘Battaglio
around 15 per cent to €180m.
slogan ‘Frutta da Vivere’ (Fruit to
4.0’, is a significant step in the
Live), is said to reflect the compa-
group’s development.
ny’s “enthusiasm, creativity and
58
Handling
around
The vitality of its business is very much the result of the
160,000
energy it has put into developing
energy” as it marks four-and-a-
tonnes of fruit from the Southern
its network of suppliers and cus-
half decades in the business.
Hemisphere each year – mainly
tomers in recent years, Minola
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.58-59.indd 58
07/12/2017 09:28
features
Origine organics Italian export marketing consortium Origine Group has added an organics line to its range of branded kiwifruit. Sweeki Organic joins Sweeki Green and Sweeki Gold in the company’s portfolio of products, expanding its offer in response to increasing demand – especially in Spain, where organic kiwifruit forms part of its new-season marketing campaign. The consortium continues to expand its consolidated export model, which brings together nine of Italy‘s leading fresh produce suppliers. It has also begun to develop new sources of supply beyond Italy, via says. “The company’s new image is conveyed by the logo and how it is used, combining the values of enthusiasm, creativity and energy that Battaglio expresses every day through the quality of its products and its services,” he explains. “We’re introducing a strong and memorable icon that sums up the history of the brand,” he continues, pointing out that the overall shape is reminis-
OPPOSITE—
Battaglio’s new brand features a distinctive B motif
a new strategic partnership with Chilean producerexporter David Del Curto. This should eventually enable it to supply Sweeki-branded kiwifruit for 12 months of the year.
ABOVE—The new
brand identity will be introduced across the board
cent of an astronomical star chart and, at the same time, the outline of a fruit composed of individual fruits originating from all over the world. As such, the bright and vibrant logo will become “the new identity’s beating heart.” _ E
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.58-59.indd 59
59
07/12/2017 09:28
features
report —Italy
An oasis of calm in a sea of kiwifruit ravenna—By developing partnerships with a select band
ly is Greece: “It has no domestic market but has a product surplus [around 200,000 tonnes, up 30 per cent on last season] which is completely targeted abroad. Without their traditional outlet, the Russian Federation, the Greeks are trying overseas, Central and South America, and China. Maybe not big volumes, but they are there.”
of import partners worldwide, Italian brand Made in Blu
In Italy, kiwifruit production has reportedly fallen below
has secured its position at the very top of the country’s
400,000 tonnes. “If we are talking about 27,000ha, includ-
overseas kiwifruit market.
ing new plantings, with an average production of around 30 tonnes per hectare, they say we should have a total of 750,000 tonnes. Something evidently didn’t work out!”
by Raffaella Quadretti
According to Mazzotti, Made in Blu products tend to be marketed differently to those sold by individual Italian exporters, generally being sold through a couple of importers in each market. The exceptions are Germany, where there is an importer in each city, and Canada, where one importer is deemed to be enough. “This isn’t the strategy for some Italian companies, who love to have a whole sea of clients and not satisfy any of them,” he observes. “What they fail to consider is that, as such, they are replaceable, because they are not important to
“In terms of varieties and quality, there is a gulf between our kiwifruit and the Chinese. In Shanghai, our kiwifruit can achieve up to four times the price” anyone. If on the other hand you have a good importer, you have to keep it topped up with product and, with
T
60
p.60.indd 60
he first Italian company
“In terms of varieties and quality,
commercial and marketing strategies or co-branding
to sell kiwifruit to China,
there is a gulf between our kiwifruit
efforts in place, you’re working with the same interests in mind.”
export consortium Com-
and the Chinese,” he comments.
pagnia Italiana della Frutta was
“What’s more, when you consider
While the overseas market – and Asia in particular –
founded as a joint venture by nine
that its inhabitants add up to just
appears tantalisingly open to Italian product this year,
of the country’s major fresh pro-
two or three cities, [Italy] is finished
the story is markedly different in Europe, Mazzotti con-
duce suppliers – Alegra, Apofruit,
as a market. In Shanghai, howev-
cludes. “France, our main competitor on kiwifruit is out
La Buona Frutta, Mazzoni, Minguzzi
er, quality is rewarded and our kiwi-
of the game because it will consume all of its own fruit.
and Moc Mediterraneo – to develop
fruit can achieve up to four times
Spain has started to produce high-quality kiwifruit in
sales of their products in overseas
the domestic market price.”
the area around Zaragoza, but it stays in the country
markets under the collective brand
This season is definitely not a
and in fact they import standard-quality fruit from
Made in Blu. Today, the compar-
normal one, with a lack of prod-
Piedmont. Going against the grain is Greece, which is
ative high quality of Italian kiwi-
uct keeping prices high. “Overseas
selling at lower prices on the Continent but fortunately
fruit, combined with the sheer scale
importers are hesitant,” Mazzotti
a lot of markets traditionally appreciate Made in Italy
of China as a market, mean that the
continues. “They are not used to this
product.” _ E
group and its managing director
kind of behaviour in Italy. In fact,
Furio Mazzotti have plenty of scope
the offer has not decreased but has
ABOVE—Furio Mazzotti (right) pictured with Chinese importer
for potential expansion.
shifted upwards.” Another anoma-
Dawud Bai (left) at Mac Fruit Attraction in Shanghai
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
05/12/2017 12:30
APOFRUIT_ann_trade_210x297_newING_2017.indd 1
20/11/17 17:02
features
report —Italy
BELOW—Gala Fruit, one of the largest traders on Milan’s fresh produce wholesale
market, is ready to expand its sales abroad, according to Luigi Catalano (pictured)
Big stage awaits after Milan’s Gala performance
sold under our own Gala Fruit brand.”
were via third parties. Now, the
In their father’s absence, the
time has apparently come for it to
brothers decided to merge the four
take a step further along the supply
different stands they ran at the
chain and go direct. “I’m developing direct contacts with Italian super-
our first combined stand in 2012,” Cat-
markets and have begun working
alano recalls. “We were quite nervous
with a French retailer which is start-
about how things would go without
ing to open stores in Italy,” Catalano
Gala Fruit is targeting new growth in
‘the boss’ but over the past five years
reveals, adding that the group has
export markets following three decades of
we have done well and Gala now
already made good connections in
has four stands, plus a logistics plat-
places where more traditional, indi-
form from which we supply a good
vidual retailers as well as foodservice
number of restaurants.”
customers are prevalent, including
expansion in its home country. by Mike Knowles
A year and a half ago, however,
London and Doha. “I believe there are
Catalano decided to begin writing a
lots of customers out there who are
new chapter in the company’s histo-
looking for an Italian company that
hree decades may not be much in corporate
ry. “I decided to stop working at the
can supply them with everything as
terms, but since its foundation in 1989 as a
market and to focus instead on devel-
part of a mixed load, and arrange the
trader connecting growers with customers at
oping our planned supply, including
transport too if necessary.”
Milan’s fruit and vegetable wholesale market, Gala Fruit
overseas,” he says. “We’re seeing more
He continues: “We can offer a big
has become one of the city’s largest fresh produce whole-
demand for supply programmes,
supermarket chain individual prod-
salers. Now, as the family-run operation marks ten years
especially from supermarket chains;
ucts and allow them to handle it as
since the passing of its founding father Giuseppe Cat-
yes, it’s true that they’re going direct
they wish. However, what we are
alano, it appears ready to take a major step forward by
more and more [with their sourcing],
trying to do for example in London is
expanding its business outside of Italy, diversifying into
but every retailer needs a shoulder
to supply mixed loads containing
new markets and securing new supply deals with custom-
to lean on and at Milan’s wholesale
whichever products they want – the
ers in the retail and foodservice arenas.
market there are three or four big
entire A-Z of fresh produce – as part
“My father was originally selling products like aspar-
companies that are in a position to
of the service. They can get 60-70 per
agus, chicory and strawberries,” explains Luigi Catalano.
supply big volumes of various dif-
cent of those products direct from
“My brothers and I entered the business and we gradual-
ferent products, especially those for
our own stand and the rest we can
ly expanded the range of goods on offer. We now source
which it isn’t possible to go directly to
arrange from other suppliers to com-
and sell around 200 different fruit and vegetable products,
the producer.”
plete the overall offer.” _ E
T
p.62.indd 62
Until recently, all of Gala’s exports
market to form Gala Fruit. “We had
milan—Milan fresh produce wholesaler
62
around 30-35 per cent of which are
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
05/12/2017 12:31
features
report —Italy
Apple brand Melinda welcomes visitors to ‘Disneyland of food’ “There are more than 1,200 varieties of apple in Europe… 1,000 in Italy and 200 in the rest of Europe… That’s why we made Fico.” That message, alongside the famous brand of Italian apple company Melinda, adorns the main entrance (pictured below) to Bologna’s sprawling food theme park Fico Eataly World, which finally opened to the general public in mid-November. It has already been dubbed the ‘Disneyland of food’ by some commentators and, while it will perform a similar role in terms of cultural promotion, the park is also designed to offer
Kissabel: new brand for red-flesh apples
an educative experience that enriches people’s understanding of the food business. Offering free entry, organiser La Fabbrica Italiana Contadina (Fico, The Italian Farmers’ Factory) wants to attract six million visitors in its first year.
bolzano—New range undergoing commercial trial in
Six days before its official public opening,
Europe this season features a unique, orange-skinned
founder Oscar Farinetti was joined by various dignitaries, officials, industry representatives
variety and an apple with a distinctive berry flavour.
and journalists to look more closely at what’s on the menu. Spread across 100,000m2, architect
by Mike Knowles
Thomas Bartoli has, according to those in charge of the park, created a monument to the “art and biodiversity” of Italy’s cuisine, presenting exhibits
I
taly’s leading apple mar-
future for red-fleshed apples. “We
that show everything – production, harvesting,
keters have put their col-
believe in this project because we
preparing and presenting – that goes into making
lective weight behind a
think that it’s important to expand
all kinds of Italian foods. As well as 40 different
consortium that plans to develop
consumption of apples and I think
food outlets, Eataly World features a large open-air
a range of new, red-fleshed apple
that in order to achieve this objec-
market where people can buy food. It also promises
varieties. Melinda-La Trentina, Riv-
tive, there is a need for something
to continue the work done by the recent Milan Expo
oira, Vog and vi.p have all invested
really new, something revolution-
to raise the profile of Made in Italy when it comes to
in the Ifored project, which offi-
ary,” he comments.
food and drink; and for the country’s fresh fruit and
cially presented a trio of varieties
In-market trials of the three
last autumn under a new brand,
varieties are already underway in
Kissabel.
Europe, and Ifored’s members say
vegetable business, it’s an opportunity to promote excellence and quality. “It is a great honour to be chosen by Farinetti for
The range of red-fleshed culti-
they are aiming within the next
a global level project like Fico, which we are sure
vars includes: the world’s first com-
five years to produce the apples in
will have a great deal of media coverage both in
mercially distributed apple with
a total of 13 countries and sell them
Italy and abroad,” commented Melinda president
orange skin, Kissabel Orange; a
in markets worldwide. “We think
Michele Odorizzi. “It will be a chance to tell many
red-and-white-fleshed, deep red-
these new varieties are amazing
tourists about the excellence of our country and
skinned apple with a distinctive
and will attract consumers around
our territory’s biodiversity, of which Melinda
berry flavour, Kissabel Rouge; and
the world,” says Ifored project man-
apples are a major symbol.”
Kissabel Jaune, a pink-centred vari-
ager Emmanuel de Lapparent, who
ety with a crisp and aromatic taste.
unveiled the new brand as well as
Paolo Gerevini, general direc-
its accompanying strapline, ‘I’m
tor of leading Italian apple market-
Red Inside’, at a special press con-
er Melinda, says his company fully
ference during the Fruit Attraction
backed the project and sees a bright
trade fair in Madrid, Spain.
ABOVE—The three Kissabel-branded
said the launch was the latest
varieties are Rouge, Orange and Jaune
step in a 20-year programme
Ifored chairman Bruno Essner
64
»
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.64-66.indd 64
05/12/2017 12:33
unitec-group.com
Beyond appearances.
Beyond what looks good, but you don’t know whether it tastes good. Beyond simple sorting and color selection, to be sure about the quality you offer. With Blueberry Vision Unitec Technologies you go beyond that. You can accurately assess the real quality of each fruit: hardness, internal defects, external defects, symmetry, integrity. In partnership with Unitec Group you will provide your clients with Consistent Quality over time. To go beyond what until now has held back your business development.
Visit us at
Fruit Logistica
Berlin, 7th-9th February Hall 4.1 Stand A-02
FEATURES
“We now have a marketing concept and the fruit will be marketed everywhere under the Kissabel brand” to research and develop varieties that could offer something visually unique, as well as great diversity in terms of taste, harvest times, flesh
have a marketing concept and the
and skin colour. The consortium’s
fruit will be marketed everywhere
objective is to enlarge the range
under the Kissabel brand.”
A raction trade fair in Madrid last October
further in due course by adding
First developed in France, Kissa-
tium are: Alliance Mesfruits Gerfruit, Blue Whale,
other red- and pink-fleshed variet-
bel apples will eventually be grown
Dutoit, Empire World Trade, Fenaco, International
ies with new skin colours.
and sold by producers in Argenti-
Fruit Obtention (IP rights holder), Mono Azul, Mon-
na, Australia, Canada, Chile, France,
tague Fresh, NovaMela (La Trentina, Melinda, Rivoira,
a very ambitious project to create
Germany,
Zealand,
vi.p, Vog), Next Big Thing, Nufri, Red Apple Germany
a new fruit category,” he admits.
South Africa, Spain, Switzerland,
(Elbe-Obst, elo, Landgard, MaBo, mal, ogm, Veos, Vog,
“What’s important however is that,
the UK and the US.
Wog), Unifru i, Worldwide Fruit and Yummy Fruit
“We realise we’ve undertaken
in all parts of the market, we now
66
ABOVE—The new branding concept was unveiled at the Fruit
Italy,
New
Partners in the Ifored consor-
Company. _ E
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.64-66.indd 66
05/12/2017 12:33
features
report —Italy
Look for the Pear necessities One of Italy’s leading fruit breeders says that new varieties could offer far better eating experiences for consumers and greatly improved returns for all players in the supply chain. Speaking on the eve of international trade fair Futurpera in Ferrara last November, Eugenio Bolognesi, director of Ferrarabased fruit breeding group Consorzio Italiano Vivaisti (civ), said the launch of four new pear varieties represented an important step forward as far as the industry’s ability to meet changing market demand was concerned. Working alongside the University of Bologna’s (UniBo) breeding programme, the consortium has recently released four new varieties in response to what Bolognesi described as “increasing interest at international level”. The four new pears are: PE1Unibo, which will be marketed as Lucy Sweet;
Scarlet fever sets pulses racing
PE2Unibo, to be sold as Early Giulia; PE3Unibo, which has been named Debby Green; and PE4Unibo,
girlan—Producers and consumers across Europe are
set to be marketed as Lucy Red.
apparently getting excited about two very distinctive
As civ variety manager Marco Bertolazzi explained, the four varieties cover a ripening window that
new apple varieties, Crimson Snow and Red Moon.
extends from the early period (just after Carmen) to the medium-late period (just before Abate Fetel).
by Mike Knowles
They are also distinguished by their bicoloured and red appearance, taste ranging from sweet and aromatic taste to slightly acidic, their agronomic characteristics (high productivity, early fruit-set and easy on-tree management) and long storage times, even for early varieties, Bertolazzi added.
A
ssuming that new and
for at least five years to grow an ini-
exciting varieties really
tial 30ha of the variety in Provence,
are the future of fresh
and more if the market wants it. In
produce business, then Italian apple
the meantime, licensed producers
company Kiku Variety Manage-
have already harvested their first
ment has planted itself very much
crops in Italy, Switzerland and Serbia,
in the heart of that particular field.
the latter offering an opportunity for
Buoyed by the recent success of
the club to develop sales to Russia.
branded club apples including Kiku
As Kiku’s chief executive Jürgen
and Isaaq, the company says it also
Braun explains, the commercial out-
sees a bright, rosy future for two of
look for Crimson Snow is very pos-
its newest cultivars, the red-skinned,
itive. “The French guys are very
white-fleshed Crimson Snow and
excited because they see the vari-
the red-fleshed Red Moon.
ety’s big value on the French market,
For Crimson Snow, whose brand
especially in the second part of the
identity is rooted knee-deep in the
season,” he says. “The other thing is,
snowy brilliance of alpine sports, the
they are joining a club that already
European market appears wide open.
includes heavyweights like Vog, Riv-
France, for example, is no longer off-
oira and Fratelli Clementi. Everyone
piste thanks to a new partnership
wants to be in a strong team, because
with Mesfruits, which has signed up
it gets your growers excited.”
variety manager Marco Bertolazzi, president Pier Filippo
ABOVE—Crimson Snow has been planted
bian partners in November as part of
Tagliani and director Eugenio Bolognesi
in a number of European countries
the Fruitnet Forum South-East
ABOVE—Pictured (l-r) at Futurpera in Ravenna: Andrea
On a visit to Crimson Snow’s Ser-
Ravaioli and Vincenzo Ancarani of UniBo alongside CIV’s
68
»
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.68-70.indd 68
05/12/2017 16:09
Untitled-2 1
07/12/2017 11:25
features
LEFT—Red Moon
New moon rising
is set to shake
Elsewhere, Braun says the emergence of Red Moon, a new
up the European
red-fleshed apple with excellent taste characteristics and
apple market,
good, fair returns for growers, could be about to shake up
Braun says
the European apple market, especially among health-conscious consumers who are attracted by its high anthocyanin content as well as processing companies seeking something different in terms of taste. With 35ha planted and a short-term goal of 100ha in Europe, demand for the fruit apparently outstrips supply to such an extent that all of this year’s marketable fruit sold out in just two weeks. “I was surprised about the super response from the consumer, which was pure excitement,” Braun comments. “My theory is that the wellness trend is important here. Maybe well-educated consumers expect less in terms of taste in superfoods, so when they find something that is healthy and tasty too, they respond really well.” The Red Moon brand will be developed in partnership
Europe study tour, eurofruit was
a big fruit, yes,” Braun explains.
with around 30 licensees under a cooperative system
able to see the variety being har-
“That’s the dna of Crimson Snow.
managed by seven shareholders. These include the vari-
vested at an orchard and pack-
Over the years, they get down to
ety’s breeders Benoît Escande of French group Pépinières
house operated by local players
Fuji size, but we certainly cope
Escande and another Frenchman Jean-Luc Carrieres, as
Agrounija and Verda Vivo. One of
with it and manage it. In fact,
well as Jürgen and Thomas Braun of Kiku Variety Man-
the notable things about this sea-
Serbia has Russian access and
agement, Dutch consultant Hans Scholten, Luis Clementi
son’s packout was the fruit’s ten-
they get more money for those
of Italian apple company Fratelli Clementi and Kiku’s
dency towards bigger sizes. “It’s
larger sizes in Russia.”
Stefan Klotz. _ E
p.68-70.indd 70
05/12/2017 16:09
Sormabag EF January 2018.pdf
1
06/12/2017
14:43
Come and visit us at Fruit Logistica Hall 8.2 – Stand B17 Hall 5.1 – Stand B13
features
report —Marketing
Europe in the spotlight
“The Asian trade is showing great interest in all main Italian products, starting with kiwifruit but also in pears, apples, grapes and oranges”
new orleans—The Freshness from Europe campaign
LEFT—Representatives on the Freshness from Europe stand at
toured the globe once again in 2017 to demonstrate the
PMA Fresh Summit in New Orleans
quality of the continent’s produce. by Carl Collen
ABOVE—On show at Asia Fruit Logistica in Hong Kong
est in all main Italian products, starting with kiwifruit, obviously, but also in pears, apples, grapes, and oranges, and this confirms the need to keep on working to open
he past year has been a
According to the campaign’s
busy one for the Fresh-
organisers, the event confirmed
ness from Europe cam-
the increasing interest in export-
It was then a short hop from Hong Kong to New
paign, the marketing drive funded
ing to overseas markets, particular-
Orleans in the US for the Produce Marketing Associ-
by the European Union, the Ital-
ly kiwifruit. According to cso Italy
ation’s Fresh Summit event, which took place on 19-21
ian Government and cso Italy in
statistics, kiwifruit exports reached
October in Louisiana’s largest city.
association with several leading
46,000 tonnes in 2016, 11,000 of which
Again, participants presented a collective stand
Italian organisations. Now into its
went to China, 7,500 tonnes to Saudi
organised by cso Italy, including Apofruit Italia, Alegra,
third year, the €3.6m per annum
Arabia, 6,500 tonnes to Taiwan and
Assomela, Compagnia Italiana della Frutta, Ceradini
campaign was again present at the
6,500 tonnes to the uae.
Group and Origine Group.
T
72
p.72.indd 72
the Chinese market and the other Asian markets to our produce.”
world’s leading trade exhibitions,
As for the other fruit products
“Feedback from firms after participation at the
ending 2017 at Asia Fruit Logistica in
exported to Asia, table grapes are
American event was excellent, as large numbers of pro-
Hong Kong and pma Fresh Summit
performing well, with a total of
fessional visitors were attracted to the Freshness area,
in New Orleans.
9,500 tonnes exported mostly to the
with a coordinated image that highlighted the seasonal
Fifteen companies took part in
uae, Saudi Arabia and Jordan, while
products with the biggest role in Italian exports to the
Hong Kong, with an area dedicat-
plums are the third-largest export
US: apples, pears, kiwifruit, grapes and plums,” the
ed to the European Project Fresh-
at 6,800 tonnes.
organisation said. “There was also a strong emphasis on
ness from Europe including Alegra,
Simona Rubbi, in charge of
organic produce, an area where Italy is the European
Apofruit, Compagnia Italiana della
the opening of new markets, and
leader, and one which is attracting ever-increasing
Frutta, Kingfruit, Mazzoni, Oran-
Bianca Bonifacio, in charge of cso
interest on the US market. In fact, the 2017 edition of
frizer, Origine Group, Salvi and
Italy’s Exhibitions and Internation-
the pma revealed interesting trends in terms of not only
Spreafico, and an area with part-
alisation, confirmed a good flow of
product innovation but also new market directions,
ners not taking part in the project
operators and a great impact of cso
focusing on the development of functional, healthy
(Civ, Conor, Fru-Italy, Gullino, Infia
Italy’s stands in Hong Kong. “The
products, a sector where fruit and vegetables are all-
and RK Growers).
Asian trade is showing great inter-
important.” _ E
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
05/12/2017 13:03
Untitled-2 1
07/12/2017 11:17
features
Keynote interview —Gordan Tolevski, Eurogroup
Rewe gets E straight to the point
urofruit’s annual conference and networking event Fruitnet Forum South-East Europe, which brought together more
than a hundred professionals from a total of 16
belgrade—Following Eurogroup’s acquisition by German retail giant Rewe Group, the fresh produce category
Tolevski (left) talks to eurofruit‘s Mike Knowles
countries for its second annual meeting in Belgrade
at the recent
on 21-22 November, included an exclusive live inter-
Fruitnet Forum
view with Gordan Tolevski, commercial director of
South-East Europe
Verona-based fresh produce company Eurogroup
in Belgrade
Italia. As a fully owned subsidiary of Rewe Group, one of Europe’s largest and most influential food retailers, Eurogroup’s offices in Italy, Spain and Ger-
management company has set about
many play a key role in planning and organising the
streamlining its parent company’s
supermarket operator’s fruit and vegetable sourcing
fruit and vegetable supply lines.
ABOVE—Gordan
programme. The acquisition, which was completed at the start of 2016, has also boosted Rewe’s bottom line considerably.
by Mike Knowles
Here, we bring you Tolevski’s exclusive interview from the event, offering some fascinating insight into how a fresh produce category management company, whose sole purpose is to provide that service to
74
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.74-78.indd 74
05/12/2017 12:50
features
Rewe GROUP reorganises its fresh fruit and vegetable supply chain Early November saw new details surface in the German press about Rewe Group’s ongoing efforts to extend its new direct sourcing model with the help of its fresh produce sourcing subsidiary Eurogroup, which has offices in Italy (Verona), Spain (Valencia) and Germany (Langenfeld). According to reports, Germany’s second-largest supermarket operator is pushing ahead with an ambitious plan to establish a network of distribution hubs that will enable it to acquire fruit and vegetables and deliver them to market more quickly and directly. Speaking to Lebensmittel Zeitung, Eurogroup’s chief executive Eugenio Guidoccio (pictured below right with Jordan Corynen of logistics property developer Goodman) said a major and widespread reorganisation of sourcing and logistics over the past four years had been a “quantum leap” for Rewe and its discount chain Penny, one which has seen it build new central distribution centres for produce in Leipzig, Berkhof near Hannover and Eitting near Munich in just three and a half years. Now, it is aiming to complete two more of these hubs, including one in Wiesloch, BadenWürttemberg, that will serve as an entry point for Spanish and French produce. “In food retailing, competition in this volume business is increasingly playing out at the level of supply chain management,” said Guidoccio. “The more complete trucks that go directly to the hubs, the greater the effect for our merchants.” Similar sourcing and logistics networks for southern and eastern Europe – Austria, Bulgaria, Czech Republic, Hungary, Italy, just one major retail customer, sees the business and
Romania, Russia, Slovakia and Ukraine – are also
expects it to develop in the coming years.
planned, with pilot projects already underway in Verona and Prague.
Gordan, as commercial director of Eurogroup Italia, Rewe Group’s fully owned sourcing arm based in Verona, Italy, you have worked closely with the retailer to consolidate its fresh fruit and vegetable sourcing, helping to bring its supply chain into the 21st century and make it more in tune with market demand. With your colleagues, you’ve also undertaken a major reorganisation of Rewe’s produce sourcing into Germany, and this appears set to continue into other markets, notably eastern Europe. Can you just remind us of Rewe Group’s importance and scope as a major European grocery operator? Gordan Tolevski: Yes, so we have our [supermarket] shops in our mother country Germany and Rewe also owns Billa shops in eastern countries like the Czech and Slovak Republics and Bulgaria,
» january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.74-78.indd 75
75
05/12/2017 12:50
features
as well as Austria. We also have
because the quality of the goods
the discount chain Penny in the
was higher and rejections were
Czech Republic, Slovak Republic,
very low, we increased the grape
Ukraine and Russia.
volumes by about 57 per cent, and reduced our rejection quota to
As I understand it, Eurogroup has
just 0.02 per cent.
had to fit in with the Rewe network very quickly; we’re talking
So is it right to say that the only
about just three to four years, is
role you are playing as a company
that right?
is to create a direct sourcing network for Rewe?
GT: Yes, approximately three and a half years. We have some hub cen-
GT: Yes, that’s our only way [of
tres in Germany; we started with
working]. We are not doing any-
three and there will be two more.
thing through the traders. We
Our intention is to give our con-
start from the source, where we
sumers the shortest transit time
are in direct contact with the
BELOW—The majority of Rewe’s produce
from production to the shops.
producers or at least the pack-
sourcing into Germany is now direct
So just explain to us, what is your
ers; we organise the logistics; and
So the lorries that go from the
company’s main task as Rewe’s
we supply wherever possible in
south of Italy taking grapes from
category management subsidiary
order to arrive at approximate-
Puglia, for example, are they
for fruit and vegetables?
ly 90 per cent of all goods being
taking other products as well?
supplied directly from a suppli-
76
GT: Firstly, we carry out qual-
er to one of the hubs in Germany,
GT: Well, with an article like grapes
ity controls on all of the goods
without the traditional middle-
the quantity is very big and so
departing from Italy. It’s not only
man and without, let’s say, any
[the lorry] goes only with grapes.
quality control but also the trans-
crossing point. We start with one
We only mentioned Italy earlier
mission of our knowhow, about
truck and continue to load other
but in fact our sourcing countries
how to prepare the goods and
articles in the same area, which
starting from the east are Turkey,
how to avoid any kind of prob-
allows us to supply a particular
Greece, Cyprus, Malta, Egypt, Tuni-
lem. We started that in spring
region of Germany directly from
sia, the Balkans – Serbia, Bosnia,
2017. For example, this summer
the supplier.
Croatia and so on.
»
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.74-78.indd 76
05/12/2017 12:50
features
in the business here is of interest to us. We have three requirements of our suppliers: Globalgap certificate, bfs/brc and Grasp certification. Without those, it’s like driving a car without a licence. Of course, many of your suppliers or indeed prospective suppliers are doing their best not only to achieve the right standards and levels of compliance, but also to retain a strong enough standIf I remember correctly your three
ing in the market to compete
distribution hubs in Germany are
and defend their own interests.
Leipzig, Hanover and Munich, plus
Often, that requires consolidation
as you mentioned you have the
and aggregation on their part. I
two new ones in the pipeline. How
wonder, when there is such con-
important has it been to make
solidation of supply in certain
the logistics network itself and
regions or countries, and people
the distribution networks in the
start to market and promote
market more streamlined and cen-
themselves in a more concerted
tralised?
way around a particular product or origin, do you sit up and take
GT: Well, our strategic plan in this
notice? Does that kind of market-
area should remain a secret, but
ing make a difference?
without logistics, you cannot do anything. TOP—Gordan
Tolevski said the retailer was looking for more
One of the things we’ve heard here
GT: For us it’s very positive, because if we start sourcing a new
in Belgrade is that retailers love
And is that something you notice
product or something from a new
continuity. That’s effectively your
even more, now that players
region, we want to do it in a very
number one goal, is it not?
like Amazon are in the grocery
professional way together with our
market?
suppliers. Plus, it’s also a kind of
produce suppliers in Europe
GT: There are three factors which
ABOVE—Online
are really important for us: quali-
GT: Yes, they are becoming very
if somebody has had a good result
ty, quantity and continuity.
important for the fresh fruit and
with one customer, then their
is becoming a major part of
advertising to the others, because
vegetable business in the US, and
neighbours see that also and will
distribution
Does that apply to every product
they are also starting in Germa-
hopefully come to us. _ E
business
in the basket, or are there some
ny, where they are already serving
seasonal items?
certain cities like Berlin, Potsdam,
Rewe Group’s
Hamburg and Munich day to day. GT: No, there is no seasonality and so Rewe Group buys from
Here in south-east Europe, what
other countries too. We have three
are your strategic goals when it
buying and logistics offices: one in
comes to fresh fruit and vegetable
Italy, a second in Spain and a third
sourcing?
Presentations fruitnetforumsee.com Download presentations from this year’s Fruitnet Forum South-East Europe at the official event website.
in Germany which manages over-
78
seas goods. For example, Italian
GT: Serbia and the other Balkan
grapes are maybe in the last week
countries are important to us as
of the season now, so in the mean-
sourcing countries. We’re interest-
time we have already started with
ed in all kinds of fruit and vege-
Chile, Argentina and so on.
tables, so anyone who is working
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.74-78.indd 78
05/12/2017 13:08
Untitled-2 1
07/12/2017 11:22
features
report —Convenience
Slow food is moving into the fast lane
A
necoop has launched a new assortment of prepared foods for time-poor consumers looking for affordable healthy meal
valencia—Anecoop’s Express Slow Food range offers complete healthy menu solutions at a competitive price.
options for inside and outside the home. Marketed under the company’s recently launched ¿Y si? de Bou-
by Maura Maxwell
quet convenience label, the Express Slow Food range comprises six solutions – prepared fruit, snack vegetables, vegetable spreads, soups, fruit purées and
“This brand new category taps
conscious consumers. “Products
vegetable-based desserts – each with several flavour
into market trends for conve-
like these can help tackle food
options. New products will be incorporated as the
nience, speed, tradition, practi-
waste as they make use of less-
range is rolled out, according to Anecoop’s marketing
cality, health, quality and origin,”
than-perfect fruits and vegeta-
manager Carlota Pardo.
says Pardo. “The idea is to be able
bles,” she explains, adding that all
While Spain’s population has fallen since the start
to offer complete menu options
of the products in the new range
of the decade, there has been an increase in single-
at competitive prices. Grabbing
are presented in fully recyclable
person households, along with childless couples, cou-
lunch at a bar or restaurant can
packaging.
ples whose children have left home and single-parent
cost you €10-15, while one of our
The products are due to go on
families. At the same time, there has been a rise in
menus comes in at a considerably
sale in Spain shortly thanks to list-
the number of tourists, who are more familiar with
lower price and is a much healthi-
ings with retailers Carrefour and
– and open to – the whole ready-to-eat concept. Sold
er option.”
Consum. They could also be rolled
in individual servings of 80g to 700g, the products
The meals are also designed
are made up of 100 per cent fruit and vegetables. All
to appeal to consumers who are
except two are suitable for vegans. They are also free
too tired to cook when they get
Express Slow Food is the latest
of gluten, preservatives and colourings, low in salt
home from a long day’s work but
product launch to emerge from
and have no added sugar.
still do not want to compromise
Anceoop’s Janus Fruit subsidiary,
on quality or nutrition. A typical
which it set up last year to handle
menu may comprise carrot sticks
its growing convenience offer. _ E
Frutas Condiso has become the latest company to
with an aubergine, coriander and
join Anecoop, bringing the cooperative grouping’s
linseed dip, courgette soup, or a
membership tally to 68. The Murcian company,
papaya and orange mousse.
which specialises in growing and exporting
80
p.80.indd 80
out to other markets as production increases, it is understood.
Pardo also points out that the
lemons, sells mainly to the EU but also ships to
range’s sustainability credentials
other parts of eastern Europe and the US. It has a
should also mean that it appeals
production volume of 200 tonnes a day.
to today’s more environmentally
ABOVE—The meal solutions are designed
to appeal to time-poor consumers who don’t want to compromise on quality
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
05/12/2017 12:52
Untitled-2 1
04/12/2017 10:50
features
report —Innovation
T
he past two years have been a rollercoaster ride for
Genuine
The genuine article
In-situ testing kits Move into place After its successful launch at the end of last year, Citrosol’s multipurpose residue testing
Coconut.
Since scooping the Fruit Logistica
zaragoza—Few products in the fresh
system Easy-Kit is being rolled
Innovation Award in 2016 for its
produce industry have captured the
out internationally and will be
100 per cent organic, raw coconut water, the brand has been stead-
public imagination as vividly as Genuine
on display at the company’s stand at Fruit Logistica.
ily expanding its customer base,
Coconut’s in-shell coconut water product.
which now extends well beyond
eurofruit catches up with the company
simple way to measure PC
Europe’s borders.
two years after it won the Fruit Logistica
fungicide concentrations in
Featuring a patented ring-pull that allows the drink to be con-
Innovation Award.
drenchers, waxes, wastewater and fruit, doing away with the slow and cumbersome process
sumed directly from the shell of the coconut, the product’s distinc-
The kits provide a fast and
by Maura Maxwell
of sending samples to external laboratories for analysis.
tive design makes for an eye-catch-
“The immediacy of the
ing addition to shelves at high-end required to underpin its push into new markets –
results is the key advantage
alike, while also reinforcing the
including ifs, smeta, non-gmo and Kosher. As well as
of the Easy-Kit as it means
message that the drink has not
joining the Ethical Trading Initiative, it is also in the
companies can take
undergone any form of processing.
process of obtaining Fair For Life accreditation. Such
prompt action to correct
“Winning the Innovation Award
has been the growth in demand that Molina says the
any anomalies,” says the
served as the launchpad for our
company has had to double its processing capacity by
company’s chief executive
international sales,” the group’s
investing in a new production line and extra coldstor-
and director of science Benito
European
age capacity at its factory in Zaragoza.
Orihuel. “No other product
stores and discount supermarkets
sales
manager
Ana
on the market offers such a
Molina tells eurofruit. “We’re now
Molina adds that the company has also made sig-
present in virtually every coun-
nificant improvements to its ring-pull system, replac-
portable, quick, easy-to-use
try in Europe, as well as in various
ing the metal with a greener alternative made from a
and cost effective solution
Middle Eastern markets. In Septem-
combination of natural resin and the green husk of
for on-the-spot residue and
ber, we started exporting to Canada
the coconut. “By inserting the ring-pull more precise-
fungicide analysis.”
and we are currently in the process
ly, we have also been able to extend the shelf-life of
of launching the product in the US.”
the coconut water, allowing us to reach new markets,”
During that time, the company
she says. _ E
has been steadily acquiring the various
certificates
The kits provide a fast and simple way to measure PC fungicide concentrations in drenchers, waxes, waste water and fruit LEFT—The coconuts make for an eye-
catching display on retail shelves
82
p.82.indd 82
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
05/12/2017 12:53
Untitled-2 1
07/12/2017 12:42
features
report —Organics
Barcelona wholesale market Mercabarna has set out its stall as an organics hub in a move designed to reinforce its position as a leading food distribution centre in the western Mediterranean. In 2016, the market authority originally announced plans to build the country’s first ever wholesale market pavilion dedicated exclusively to the sale of organic products; originally scheduled to open early this year, the project was apparently delayed due to unprecedented demand. “We’ve had to go back to the drawing board in order to accommodate all of the companies – from within the market and beyond – who want to be part of the hub, so the completion date has consequently been pushed back to the end of this year or early 2019,” explains Roser Lapuente, Mercabarna’s marketing director. More than 15
Moving organics into the mainstream
major organics companies are currently housed within the market’s perimeters, most of them conventional fruit and vegetable suppliers that have developed their own organic lines. Two of them, however, handle these products exclusively.
badajoz—Spanish company HaciendasBio has ambitious plans for its new organics label Biovivo.
A survey carried out by Mercabarna shows that, on average, organic sales are growing by 5-10 per cent a year due to rising demand from their customers in the specialist store, retail and
by Maura Maxwell
horeca sectors. The study suggests most of this is sourced from within Spain (70 per cent), with the remainder coming from overseas. In terms
H
of sales, 80 per cent is destined for the domestic
aciendasBio has launched a brand new organics label for the Spanish market. The company says it has invested €1m in creating the Biovivo
brand in response to growing demand for organic fruits and vegetables among consumers. With research by man-
ABOVE—The
company wants to make organics more accessible
market and 20 per cent goes for export. Overall sales of fruits and vegetables at Mercabarna were on course to reach 1.84m tonnes in 2017, a 2.5 per cent increase on the
agement consultancy Everis showing that the Spanish
previous year. The rise was due primarily to the
organics market is and is projected to grown from €1.5bn
consolidation of the market’s export activities
currently to €12bn by 2020, HaciendasBio’s managing
and strong demand in the domestic market.
director Paco Casallo believes the time has come to take organics out of the niche specialist store sector and into mainstream distribution.
84
p.84.indd 84
in Spain and has been a leading exporter to the European
“We want to make organics accessible to everyone,” he
market for more than 15 years. Up to now, just 5 per cent of
says. “This is about consumers being able to go into any
its output has been destined for the domestic market, but
supermarket or wholesale market and find whatever
with the creation of Biovivo this has risen to 15 per cent.
organic fruit or vegetable they are looking for.”
Casallo says the increase is coming from new production
The company is forecasting annual sales of €25m by
rather than a fall in export volumes. “We’re constantly
2022, an ambitious target, but one that Casallo is confident
investing in new farms in order to be able to expand our
to company will reach based on current market growth
product range,” he notes.
forecasts. With a product catalogue containing more than
The company has already signed up to supply a
40 types of fruits and vegetables, and with annual sales
number of leading Spanish retailers, including Consum,
of €40m, HaciendasBio is the biggest organics producer
Eroski, Caprabo and Ahorramás. _ E
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
05/12/2017 12:54
Untitled-3 1
29/11/2017 16:56
features
interview —Inmaculada Sanfeliu, Citrus Management Committee
Playing the long game valencia—Inmaculada Sanfeliu, general director of Spain’s Citrus Management Committee, explains how the country is managing to maintain its leadership in today’s increasingly competitive landscape. by Maura Maxwell
W
hat are your expectations
tellón. Although the final shipment
for this citrus season? Do
total could have been higher, last
you think exports are on
year still turned out to be the fifth
course to exceed last season’s total?
best export season ever.
Inmaculada Sanfeliu: The 2017/18
confident that exports will exceed
Spanish crop is expected to weigh in
last year’s total of 3.65m tonnes.
at 6.2m tonnes, a fall of 12.3 per cent
This includes 1.5m tonnes of manda-
on last season, with 3.14m tonnes
rins, 1.6m tonnes of oranges, 500,000
coming from Valencia, 2.02m tonnes
tonnes of lemons and 60,000 tonnes
from Andalucía and 864,000 tonnes
of grapefruit – more than enough to
from Murcia. The remainder will
meet the requirements of the Euro-
come from Tarragona and the Bale-
pean retailers.
So for the current season we are
ABOVE & ABOVE LEFT —Inmaculada Sanfeliu says that, although
mandarin and orange production are down this year, this does
aric Islands. By category, we expect mandarin production to fall by 18.4 per
How have recent growing condi-
not necessarily mean that export volumes will fall
tions been?
cent, while oranges and lemons are down by 11.1 per cent and 2.8 per cent
IS: The season got underway at the
situation is particularly worrying for lemon producers
respectively.
end of September and despite the
in Murcia. Up to now however we haven’t had any sizing
lack of rain we’ve seen a good range
issues with satsumas and early clementines and the fruit
of sizes so far.
we’ve had so far has been of excellent quality.
Even though volumes are down, there’s no reason why this should translate into a drop in exports.
86
One factor that is likely to cause during
the
second
Have there been any recent supply issues?
During the 2016/17 season Spain
uncertainty
exported 3.705m tonnes of citrus,
half of the season is the ongoing
95,000 tonnes more than in the pre-
drought – the worst Spain has faced
IS: No. Given its market share, Spain is irreplaceable
vious campaign.
for 15 years. Unless we see suffi-
as a supplier of citrus to the European Union and one
This was in spite of the heavy
cient rainfall before Christmas the
shouldn’t read too much in to the fact that we’re facing a
losses sustained in December as a
government has said it will impose
shorter crop this year.
result of the rains, particularly in
restrictions on water supplies in a
clementines in the province of Cas-
number of production zones. The
This simply means that production will be lower than last year when there was an abundant harvest.
»
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.86-88.indd 86
05/12/2017 12:55
Untitled-1 1
02/11/2017 12:07
features
To put things in perspective, 2016/17 was the third biggest crop in history at 7.2m tonnes. As I said previously, we expect exports to exceed 3.65m tonnes this season, marking the eighth consecutive year of growth. Recently the Citrus Management Committee carried out a study to see whether there is a correlation between the forecast size of the crop and the final export volume. We concluded that this isn’t nec-
children. It now makes up around
essarily the case. Of the nine sea-
1.6m tonnes of the 2.4m tonnes of
sons we compared, five showed a
easy peelers Spain produces and
link between a bigger crop fore-
each year we export more than 1m
cast and higher exports or a small-
tonnes worldwide, the majority of
er crop and lower shipments. But
which come from the Community
in the remaining four cases the
of Valencia.
opposite was true – a lower fore-
The market is looking for new
cast resulted in higher exports
mandarin
while a higher forecast led to lower
closely
varieties
exports.
tine, particularly during the latter
resemble
that the
most
clemen-
stages of the season. The trend What market trends are you seeing
in recent years has been towards
in the category?
later varieties as growers seek to distribute production more evenly
IS: When it comes to quality, Europe
in order avoid supply peaks during
is the most demanding market in
the first half of the season and
the world. Spanish-grown orang-
raise the quality bar across the
ABOVE—Spain has put a lot of efforting into diversifying its
es and mandarins have excellent
whole category.
varietal offer, thereby ensuring that it can supply the market for as long a period as possible
organoleptic characteristics such as aroma, sugar-acid ratio and juice
Where do you see the greatest
content; good sizes and an attrac-
growth potential in citrus?
tive colour.
88
ants. Before the ban came into force in August 2014 Spain had made significant inroads in this market and
For years, Spain has put a lot
IS: The European Union, Switzer-
we believe it will continue to play an important role in
of effort into diversifying its vari-
land and Norway, which together
terms of future exports.
etal offer to ensure that it can
absorb 93-95 per cent of Spanish
China is another market with huge potential given
supply the high quality Navel-type
citrus exports, are very mature
the growth of its middle class. But unlike Russia it has
oranges demanded by the market
markets
demand.
its own citrus production which means that Spanish
for as long a period as possible. It
There is, however, potential to
exporters have to comply with a complex and costly phy-
has achieved notable success in
boost shipments to some of the
tosanitary protocol in order to access the market.
extending the supply window with
EU’s newer member states where
late season varieties such as Lane,
consumption is increasing in line
Powell, Chislett and Barnfield, as
with purchasing power and will
well as with new types of seed-
eventually reach similar levels
IS: In recent years we’ve seen an unprecedented level of
less Valencia late oranges includ-
to
countries.
interest in imported foreign varieties, particularly those
ing Delta Seedless, Midknight and
The same is true in other coun-
than can extend the season at either end. Spain is the
Barberina. Today we export premi-
tries such as Ukraine and Russia,
world’s leading citrus exporter and it is vital that we allo-
um quality oranges from Novem-
although the latter still remains
cate the necessary resources – both public and private –
ber right through to May.
closed to European produce.
for the development of new varieties.
other
with
stable
European
What new varieties are showing most potential?
In easy peelers, clementine is
Of the non-EU markets, I would
When this isn’t possible we must resort to importing
the preferred variety thanks to its
say Russia is the one with the most
them. We simply cannot afford to allow our competitors
quality and versatility and it is pop-
potential due to its size and the
to develop a richer and more competitive varietal offer
ular among all ages, particularly
purchasing power of its inhabit-
than us. _ E
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.86-88.indd 88
05/12/2017 12:55
Untitled-1 1
12/12/2017 09:45
FEATURES
REPORT —Ports
Bilbao bigs T up its hub credentials
he Port of Bilbao wants to capitalise on the
target for future perishables growth.
growing popularity of imported fruit and veg-
Atutxa points to the port’s excellent
etables among Spanish consumers by posi-
rail links with the rest of Spain – a
tioning itself as a gateway for Latin American produce
total of 92 trains arrive every week,
into Spain and northern Europe, as well as a key distribu-
including refrigerated services from
tion hub for the northern Iberian Peninsula.
Murcia, one of Spain’s leading pro-
More than 200,000 tonnes of fruits and vegetables
bilbao—Fruit and vegetable traffic at the Port of Bilbao
were loaded and unloaded at the port in 2016, a 17 per cent
etables.
increase on the previous year, with arrivals from South
During the past year, the port
America accounting for much of the increase. Accord-
has also implemented a number of
has been growing steadily
ing to Asier Atutxa, president of the Port Authority of
improvements designed to facilitate
thanks to an influx of Latin
Bilbao, the port’s infrastructure and connectivity make
the flow of perishables traffic, such
it a natural choice for South American produce arriving
as automating access to the main
in Europe, while it also offers a competitive alternative
container terminal and increasing
to road transport when it comes to exporting Spanish
the number of reefer plugs to 540.
fruits and vegetables to northern Europe.
The rail terminal itself is also being
American produce. by Maura Maxwell
“Bilbao leads the way among Spanish ports in terms
expanded so that it can accommo-
of maritime services to northern Europe and in the
date trains of up to 550m, allowing it
past year we have added a number of new services that
to significantly increase its contain-
improve connectivity with the UK and Scandinavia in
erised cargo capacity.
particular,” he says.
90
duction areas for fresh fruit and veg-
Bilbao,
Spain’s
fourth-largest
At the same time, the port has improved services
port, handled 31.9m tonnes last year,
to Mexico and the east coast of South America – a key
of which 6.3m was containerised. _ E
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.90-91.indd 90
12/12/2017 10:04
FEATURES
REPORT —Tropicals
Tropical wave carries Frutas Montosa forward increased the capacity of its research
vélez-málaga—The company is investing in new production and extra capacity as demand for its avocados and mangoes continues to grow.
and development centre at its VélezMálaga facility where new recipe ideas are hatched. It has also added three new ripening chambers for its
by Maura Maxwell
fresh lines and invested in new coldstorage area to accommodate its growing output.
F
p.90-91.indd 91
rutas Montosa put in another solid perfor-
the international launch in 2017 of
Last year also saw the opening of
mance in 2017, with sales of its fresh and pro-
its Native-branded guacamole and
the company’s new on-site laboratory,
cessed lines rising by 20 per cent on the back
mango dip. Last year, the guacamo-
which will reportedly enable faster
of strong demand on the domestic and European market.
le received a Superior Taste Award
and more cost-effective residue test-
The company, one of a handful of major avocado and
from the International Taste & Qual-
ing. Equipped with state-of-the-art
mango producers located in the Vélez-Málaga area of
ity Institute, an achievement that
technology, the 100m2 facility has led
southern Spain, is increasing its production at a rate of
marketing manager Isabel Izquier-
to a significant increase in the
around 10 per cent a year to meet the current wave of pop-
do hails as “recognition of the quality
number of samples the company is
ularity of both its main products.
and freshness of the product”.
able to test, enabling it to provide
The company prides itself on being among the most
Keen to repeat the success of its
innovative in the tropicals sector – as demonstrated by
Native line, the company has recently
even more stringent guarantees when it come to product safety. _ E
12/12/2017 10:04
features
report —Biostimulants
Organic growth plans valencia—The company’s meteoric growth reflects the surge in demand for organic fertilisers and biostimulants. by Maura Maxwell
V
92
p.92.indd 92
alencia-based Idai Nature’s
fore achieve greater growth.”
The global biostimulants market is projected to grow at more than 10 per cent a year, reaching US$3.29bn
expansion plans are set to
The company is also expanding
gather pace in 2018. Fuelled
its product range and will be at Fruit
by 2022, according to a report by Research and
by the need to find more sustainable
Logistica to showcase its new Micro-
Markets. A rise in sustainable agriculture means
production practices to tackle global
Nat line. Based on microorganisisms
biostimulants have been gaining popularity thanks to
food security, the company has seen
and metabolite mixes derived from
their ease of application and low toxicity to both the
its natural fertilisers and crop protec-
microbial fermentation, it includes
environment and human health.
tion solutions gain traction in mar-
biofertilisers which secrete metabo-
kets across the globe.
lites that modify the root architecture
biostimulants in the agricultural industry in 2016,
Europe accounted for the highest adoption of
Since its formation in 2010, it has
of plants, optimise their nutrition
driven by fruits and field crops such as apples, pears,
grown at an average of 77 per cent a
and reduce the negative effects of
peaches, cotton and corn. However, the Asia Pacific
year and today operates divisions in
water stress; as well as biopesticides
region is projected to be the fastest-growing region
Mexico, Algeria, Turkey and – most
providing natural protection to crops.
over the coming years as their use is taken up by producers in order to meet export market standards.
recently – the US. This year, it plans
“Our value proposition is based on
to introduce its products to new mar-
innovative technology that allows
kets including Kazakhstan, Estonia,
the cultivation of fruits and vegeta-
role in tackling some of the challenges facing global
Kenya, Honduras and Guatemala. It
bles without chemical residues based
agriculture, such as a growing population, water
also has several projects underway
on the use of botanical extracts to
scarcity, extreme temperatures and other types of
in Asia, where food safety concerns
obtain natural solutions to treat pests
stress related to climate change which require more
have grown in recent years.
and diseases,” says Ledó. “All this work
resistant crops capable of optimising their yields,”
Founder and managing director
has placed Idai Nature at the fore-
says Ledó.
Carlos Ledó explains the group’s strat-
front of innovation in the market and
egy: “We study the markets in depth.
the company has become an interna-
In those that we consider strategic we
tional benchmark in organic agricul-
establish a direct presence and there-
ture and zero residue.” _ E
“Biostimulants are playing an increasingly vital
ABOVE LEFT & TOP—Demand for natural solutions is growing
globally and the group now has four overseas divisions
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
05/12/2017 12:59
Untitled-1 1
05/12/2017 13:01
FEATURES
REPORT —Fruit A raction
Fresh out of the box
Red alert for apples Kissabel, a new brand for a trio of red-fleshed apple varieties set to be grown around the world,
madrid—The latest edition of Fruit Attraction in Madrid
was unveiled at the show. The range includes
once again provided a rich seam of inspiration for visitors
the world’s first commercially distributed apple
and fresh produce buyers alike.
with orange skin, Kissabel Orange, as well as Kissabel Rouge, a deep red-skinned, berry-flavoured cultivar, and Kissabel Jaune, a pink-cen-
by Michael Barker, Mike Knowles & Maura Maxwell
tred variety with a crisp and aromatic taste. Members of Ifored, the consortium of producers which is behind the range, are aiming within the next five years to produce them in a total of 13 countries for sale worldwide.
New look for Marlene Apple brand Marlene previewed its new visual and marketing identities, which are designed to consolidate its position as a major trademark on the international market. Designed to instil the name with personality and character, the new concept centres around a newstyle logo with the handwritten
mes-
sage ‘I am Marlene’. It also features a marketing narrative based on the idea of Marlene as ‘Daughter of
Driscoll’s helps staff ‘fix the basics’
the Alps’, specifically a prod-
Berry company Driscoll’s presented several innovations in Madrid,
uct of her father the mountain and her mother
including what it says is the first mobile application for retailers in
the Mediterranean sun.
Europe, Middle East and Africa that can connect the marketer with supermarket staff on the shop floor. The Dricoll’s app guides fresh produce department personnel through a five-step ‘fix the basics’ programme, offering tips and tricks to create successful berry presentations in their stores. Danish supermarket chain recently became the first retailer to use the tool.
Pitaber poised for pitahaya breakthrough As Europe’s only pitahaya producer, Tenerife-based Pitaber is well placed to take advantage of the fruit’s burgeoning popularity. Lauded in Asia for its high level of antioxidants and proven digestive properties, the pitahaya is poised for a breakthrough in the European market as availability improves. Pitaber’s 3ha farm currently yields around 120 tonnes a year and this is set to increase sharply as plants mature, according to manager Isora García (left). Last year, the company carried out its first exports to mainland Spain and Europe and it is now looking to open up new markets as its production volume grows.
94
»
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.94-97.indd 94
12/12/2017 10:03
Untitled-1 1
11/12/2017 14:38
features
Chocs away Belgian supplier Hoogstraaten’s Jan Engelen (pictured) pointed out several new products on the group’s stand. These included a new variety of cherry tomato which the company has decided to promote in a style more akin to the Belgian chocolate business, as well as a new line of topseal tomato packs that are said to be attracting lots of interest already in Belgium.
G’s plans to grow in Europe
Sweet and sour
Leading vegetable and salad producer G’s is aiming to ramp up produc-
The exotic-looking guanabana – also known
tion in Poland as a result of Brexit pressure. Speaking at Fruit Attrac-
as soursop – is being grown in the Canary
tion, the company’s Guy Shropshire outlined the scale of the problem
Islands for the first time.
facing UK growers following the country’s decision to pull out of the
Producer Plantate is currently looking for
EU: “In our industry labour is a major part of our cost structure and one
markets for the fruit, which is more typically
of the biggest parts of management in agriculture is the availability of
grown in South America and is described as
labour,” he explained.
having a flavour that combines strawberry
“With Brexit there is a lot of uncertainty in the UK and that is driv-
and pineapple with sour citrus notes.
ing challenges for us on labour already. The devaluation of the pound
Grown all year round but most plentifully
is reducing the benefit or return that seasonal labour can earn when
in summer, Plantate hopes to sell in Europe
coming from central Europe to work in the UK during the summer
under its Dulzita brand.
before returning home. That’s already putting pressure on us. The opportunity for mechanisation is there, but it’s still expensive, the technology is still new, and it’s going to take time to deliver a tangible relief to demand.”
Herbal remedy
And as Shropshire pointed out, growers are increasingly looking
Tenerifresh is tapping into the growing trend
outwards for a solution: “One of the ways we are looking to mitigate a
for herbs in the European market with a
potential labour crisis in the UK is by developing a business in central
range of products to suit home cooks. The
Europe itself, in Poland, to be able to produce some of the most labour-
company, which grows year-round in Tener-
intensive crops that we have, to then export potentially back to the UK
ife, specialises in mint, dill, sage and basil and
in the future.”
also supplies under the Isla Bonita brand.
High hopes for Brexit deal UK supplier Victoria Trading is upbeat about the chances of a trade deal that will enable a seamless transition post-Brexit. General manager Andrew Zerpa-Falcon said: “We are hopeful and cautiously optimistic that the UK and EU will be able to agree sensible trade arrangements. It would seem generally to be in the country’s best interests to allow food imports to flow tarifffree and without significant bureaucratic burden and certainly as a producer that has supplied the UK for more than 80 years, we are very keen to see normal arrangements maintained.”
96
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.94-97.indd 96
12/12/2017 10:04
features
REPORT —Portugal
LEFT—The firm’s
newly-launched Frubis dehydrated fruit line
Managing temperature changes? There’s an app for that
Image reboot for Luis Vicente
Advanced Products Portugal (app) has launched a new single-use isothermal cover for the food industry that will be on display at Fruit Logistica. The covers
torres vedras—The company’s new corporate identity reflects strong sales and an optimistic outlook.
safeguard products from changes in temperature, protecting against radiation and convection heat. The company’s products include isothermal boxes, pouches, covers and containers, as well as systems
by Maura Maxwell
to monitor and control temperature and humidity to ensure that products arrive at their destination in peak condition.
O
ne
of
Portugal’s
best-
apple production has increased by
Managing director Manuel Pizarro (pictured below)
produce
more than 100 per cent, while at the
says the fruit industry represents an important and
companies, Luis Vicente,
same time, sales of its Plump-brand-
growing part of the company’s business. “Our solutions
has had an image overhaul. As
ed tropical fruit from Costa Rica and
ensure the maintenance of the cold chain during
well as breathing new life into its
Brazil have also grown strongly.
transportation, handling and storage, even in extreme
known
fresh
conditions,” he explains.
established brands, the company
As well as supplying the local
is launching a new premium label
market, the company now exports
“In this way we play a vital role in supporting
at this year’s Fruit Logistica for
to 10 countries including the UK,
Portuguese fruit and vegetable exporters, allowing
emblematic Portuguese products
Spain, Morocco and, most recent-
them to provide a quality service which hopefully
including Rocha pears, apples and
ly, Colombia. But the fastest growth
means they can capture more business.”
stonefruit.
over the past year has been in Brazil,
“The brand is designed to convey all of the qualities for which our fruit is known, namely great taste, attrac-
The company has more than 15 years of experience
which has become its biggest export
in designing and developing systems to maintain the
market.
cold chain during the transportation and storage of
Although fiercely competitive,
tive appearance and security,” says
Barbosa
believes
the
managing director Miguel Barbosa.
market still offers opportunities for
perishables and pharmaceuticals.
European
The company has also updated
expansion. “They key to growth here
its main brand, introducing a new
is innovation – you need to have the
heart-shaped logo that Barbosa says
right product and present it in the
symbolises the modernity, dyna-
right way,” he says.
mism and passion that each and
By way of example he holds up
every member of staff feels for the
the Frubis line of dehydrated fruit
business and the products they grow.
line produced by the group’s conve-
The image overhaul reflects the opti-
nience division Nuvifruits, which
mism within the company about the
was recently relaunched with new
current state of the international
packaging and a brand new slogan –
market and, more importantly, Por-
‘It’s obvious. It is fruit’ – ahead of a
tugal’s role within it. During the past
planned push into new export mar-
year Luis Vicente’s Rocha pear and
kets. _ E
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.94-97.indd 97
97
05/12/2017 13:30
features
report —Belgium
T
he continued closure of the massive Russian market has made it essential for Belgian topfruit exporters to find alternative
markets, and with the assistance of vlam, Flanders’ Agricultural Marketing Board, huge progress has been made over the past three and half years. Last November saw the opening of the Vietnamese market for Belgian pears, which followed the opening of the Brazilian market earlier in the year, the focus in both being the Conference pear. “The Russian boycott has clearly demonstrated the importance of sufficiently diversifying our export markets,” says vlam’s Gert Van Causenbroeck. “In recent years, vlam has focused on increasing Flemish exports of fruit and vegetables to countries outside Europe. We believe in the opportunities for Flemish exporters of fruit and vegetables all over the world and are helping Flemish companies to gain a foothold.” In addition to the opening of the Vietnamese market, November equally saw the first tastings of Belgian Conference pears in Brazil as part of a nationwide campaign to educate Brazilian consumers about the qualities of the variety, beginning in São Paolo. The effort is supported by vlam and its threeyear Taste of Europe promotional campaign, which is co-financed by the EU. The focus of the campaign is on tastings, allowing Brazilian consumers to get accustomed to the variety’s unfamiliar look. According to cooperative Belgian Fruit Valley (bfv),
Belgian topfruit promotions aplenty brussels—Belgian apples and pears are managing to prove
Brazilian shoppers need to get used to the Conference’s russeting, since they usually eat fruit with a shiny peel. Since the start of the Russian ban in 2014, bfv has taken a lead in efforts to export Belgian Conference pears to Brazil, which it markets under its Truval brand. “Thanks to positive cooperation between all parties involved and a meeting between the Belgian
their diversity and versatility to consumers in various new
Minister of Agriculture, Willy Borsus, and the Bra-
markets, as life after the Russian ban continues for the
zilian Minister of Agriculture, Blairo Maggi, at the
country’s exporters.
end of January 2017, the dossier was brought forward,” the company stated. Brazil itself has almost no pear production, import-
by Tom Joyce
ing around 200,000 tonnes a year. However, Belgium currently exports only around €150m of agricultural products to Brazil. “Following our experiences in Asia, we are convinced that the Brazilian market can become a potential major customer of the Belgian
ABOVE—Marc Evrard, commercial director of Belgian Fruit Valley
98
Truval Conference pear,” the company added.
»
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.98-100.indd 98
05/12/2017 13:05
Untitled-2 1
07/12/2017 12:56
features
Carrefour offers residue-free pears In Belgium, Carrefour has introduced what it describes as the first residue-free pears, produced by six producers belonging to growers’ association New Green and cooperative BelOrta. Together the growers boast 50ha of pear orchards, mainly in the Borgloon region, but also in West Flanders, Flemish Brabant and Wallonia. According to vlam, Flanders’ Agricultural Marketing Board, the fruit is grown using only biological inputs, auxiliary insects, biological pest management and organic farming techniques. “Sixty per cent of the insects in the plantations Indian promise
Over the last decade, Europe-
are useful for pears,” said Jos Derwael of New
Coinciding with the start of the
an apples and pears have quick-
Green. “So we offer earwigs a place to nest in the
Belgian Conference season, vlam
ly boosted their share on the
plantation since they eat aphids, while kestrels also
also highlighted the quality of
Indian market. In 2007, EU apples
get a spot in the plantation, because they catch
Belgian topfruit at an official
accounted for just 0.5 per cent of
the field mice that eat the roots of the fruit trees.
reception during a state visit to
Indian apple imports, compared
Meanwhile, fruit moths are confused by pheromone
Delhi, India, by the Belgian King
with 9.9 per cent in 2016, with Bel-
traps in the trees.”
and Queen. The head chef of the
gium responsible for over 40 per
Belgian Embassy was on hand to
cent of EU imports.
Last October saw two low-residue apples also hit Carrefour shelves in Belgium, with 40ha of Novajo (a mutant of Jonagold) and Sweet Surprise
create a selection of Indian dishes
During the first half of 2017,
based on produce from Belgian
Belgian apple exports to India
(a cross between Gala and Braeburn) planted by
orchards,
the
had already exceeded the volume
New Green and BelOrta. Residue-free apples are
diversity of the country’s apples
shipped in the whole of 2016. As
anticipated within three years, according to vlam.
and pears.
demonstrating
the season continued, volumes
Carrefour stated that undersized and less
import-
were rapidly approaching the
attractive fruit would be squeezed into juice and
ing European pears a few years
10,000-tonne mark. “In India, we
also sold at the retailer’s stores. “Consumers are
ago, but it’s a trade flow that has
have been present for a longer
becoming increasingly interested in what they are
grown constantly ever since. In
time,” says Marc Evrard, com-
eating,” says Carrefour’s Baptiste van Outryve, who
2016, imported volumes stood at
mercial director at bfv, “but our
revealed that both products would be sold under
939 tonnes, with almost three-
efforts are ongoing, including
Carrefour’s Quality Chain label.
quarters of that figure coming
tastings and promotions.”
India
only
began
from Belgium. According
According to Evrard, there to
Van
Causen-
continues to be great potential
broeck, the challenge remains to
for Belgian topfruit in India,
persuade Indian buyers and con-
especially for apples, with high
sumers of the taste and quality
hopes for Joly Red, a variety espe-
of Belgian pears, which are still
cially suited to the market. _ E
viewed as an exotic fruit on the market. “Hundreds of tastings are planned to convince Indian consumers of the unique taste
100
and quality of Belgian pears,” he
TOP—The Belgian delegation in India to
reveals.
promote imported Conference pears
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.98-100.indd 100
05/12/2017 13:05
Untitled-1 1
11/12/2017 09:36
features
report —Belgium
Hoogstraten focuses on taste
BelOrta and IG International renew partnership
Hoogstraten will present a larger stand at Fruit Logistica 2018, as the strawberry and tomato specialist provides additional space for some of
sint-katelijne-waver—Belgium’s BelOrta and India’s leading fresh fruit and vegetables importer, IG International, sign new partnership deal.
its larger growers to present their products. “Retailers are trying to get as close as possible to the growers, and with this
by Tom Joyce
addition we are showing that we are indeed the growers,” says marketing manager Jan Engelen.
ast November, IG Inter-
to Indian consumers through a joint promotional
“Our general theme during the
national, India’s lead-
campaign in six Indian cities. Both companies have
fair will be ‘Taste’. We believe
ing fresh fruit importer
signed a new contract that states that they are com-
taste is the best selling point for
reconfirmed its association with
mitted to further expanding the export of Belgian
consumers, ensuring shoppers
Belgium-based
veg-
BelOrta apples and pears to India in 2017/18. BelOr-
return for repeat purchases. For
organisation
ta and IG International will also work together to
our growers, this theme is very
BelOrta. Launched by actor Sonu
introduce Belgian vegetables, strawberries and soft
important. Making the right
Sood and celebrity chef Ranveer
fruit into the Indian market as soon as access for
choices in terms of varieties
Brar, BelOrta apples and pears
these products is granted.
is crucial. Taste and volumes
L etable
fruit
producer
and
don’t always go hand in hand,
have been available in leading
“We are proud and happy with our renewed part-
retail stores across the country
nership and strongly believe we can work together to
however, which is why excellent-
since 2016. As a result of these
expand the range of imported fresh fruit and vegeta-
tasting products require a
bles from Belgium to India,” says Tarun Arora, director
correspondingly higher price.”
“We will continue utilising our combined experience to match Indian preferences with Belgian fruit and vegetables”
of IG International. “BelOrta is a strong commercial organisation with an amazing range of products with a guarantee of top-quality products. This partnership
“We are excited to see that
will further strengthen our position as the top choice
BelOrta apples and pears from the
for suppliers of fruit in the international market.”
new harvest are back in Indian retail stores,” says Filip Fontaine, chief executive officer of BelOrta. “Our renewed partnership with IG International is a clear message that we will continue utilising our combined
experience
of
the
market and distribution network combined efforts, exports of Bel-
to match Indian culinary prefer-
gian apples and pears to India
ences with Belgian fruit and vege-
have increased at record rates.
tables. IG is one of the leading
By reconfirming their partner-
fresh fruit and vegetables compa-
ship during the state visit of the
nies in India, and with its vast dis-
Belgian King and Queen to India,
tribution network, it is the ideal
both companies showed their
partner for us to bring our Belgian
commitment to the partnership
top-quality products to the Indian
and to long-term engagement to
consumer.” _ E
build up this new market. BelOrta and IG International started their successful partnership
in
2016,
introducing
Belgian BelOrta apples and pears
102
LEFT—Filip Fontaine, director of Belgian
cooperative BelOrta
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.102.indd 102
05/12/2017 13:11
Untitled-3 1
29/11/2017 16:58
features
report —Belgium
Weather fails to dampen spirits
hindered our operations and hence
sales fall 2.5 per cent.
financial performance.
Recurring ebitda dropped 5.5
“Going forward, we remain deter-
per cent, or €4.3m, to €73.4m. Fresh
mined to keep our focus on profitable
dropped by €2.6m, largely driven by
growth, and therefore accelerated a
price pressures on bananas, com-
number of initiatives to improve prof-
bined with challenging sourcing and
itability,” Vaesen continued. “Actions
lower volumes year-on-year. Net
taken include rightsizing of our Fresh
profit came in at €11.7m, although
operations in Poland, Germany, Bel-
profit for the half-year to September, but
excluding the “non-cash impact of
gium and the UK. These actions led
the company continues to strengthen its
the fair value adjustment on the
to more streamlined operations in
convertible bond”, that result was at
these countries and lower overhead
€12.5m, up 84 per cent year-on-year.
costs. These initiatives are combined
sint-katelijne-waver—Belgian group Greenyard reported a fall in operating
position as a leading fresh supplier. by Carl Collen
G
104
while the group’s fresh segment saw
“We are pleased with the good
with investments in new state-of-
improvement of the net result of
the-art operations that ensure that
our company further benefiting
Greenyard stays at the forefront of
from the refinancing and ongo-
our sector.
lobal fresh produce organ-
ing tax savings,” said chief execu-
“To conclude, we remain confident
isation
has
tive Marleen Vaesen. “At the same
Greenyard has the right strategy and
reported on its results for
Greenyard
time, our net debt continued to
priorities in place to generate profit-
the half-year to 30 September 2017,
decline despite high investments
able growth and further strengthen
with sales remaining fairly stable but
in the growth of our business. Nev-
our position as a global leader of fruit
operating profit falling. Overall group
ertheless, both in Fresh and Long
and vegetables in all its forms,”
sales dropped 2.4 per cent to €2.1bn,
Fresh, adverse weather conditions
Vaesen concluded. _ E
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.104-105.indd 104
05/12/2017 13:12
features
REPORT —Belgium
People at heart of Kanzi campaign he European season for
consumer of the taste and quality of Kanzi apples. “It is
Kanzi apples has again
often the first bite from a Kanzi apple that is convinc-
cheeky mascots and
been heralded by renewed
ing enough to make the consumer enthusiastic about
efforts to communicate the Kanzi
our brand,” comments Urs Luder, chief executive of gke,
stresses the importance of
story to consumers. Central to this
which manages the Kanzi brand.
growers in guaranteeing the
year’s Seduce Life campaign is the
The company feels Kanzi is the ideal mix of Braeburn
red-suited Kanzi Man – introduced
and Gala, something which has created a firm, juicy fruit
in 2016, his role is to present the
with a good sweet-sour blend. However, Luder also
brand “in a funny and cheeky way”.
stresses the important contribution made by growers.
sint truiden—The new Kanzi campaign features
highest-quality apples. by Tom Joyce
T
The campaign includes a largescale
European
“It’s the ‘tender loving care’ of the grower that makes
an
Kanzi so unique,” he says. “We want to bring this story
campaign,
close to the consumers and show how much craftsman-
RIGHT—The Kanzi Men prepare to
advertorials, sales promotions, sam-
ship is involved in the entire process from the flowering
deliver the apple’s Seduce Life message
plings and tastings to convince the
to shelf.” _ E
extensive
p.104-105.indd 105
giveaway,
05/12/2017 13:12
features
report —Belgium
“We try to keep every step from the producer to the consumer in our own hands, allowing us to work with a little less margin”
Belgian importer Special Fruit will be promoting its wide range of berries at Fruit Logistica in Berlin, not least the Calinda strawberry variety, which the company sources from Spain, Portugal and, from this season, Morocco. “We have almost double the volume of Calinda strawberries coming our way this
According to Vermoere, the
season,” says marketing and
company is involved in every
communications coordinator
link in the supply chain with the
Sarah Hellemans. “This is a
exception of production.
challenge, but we really believe
“We export, we import, we do wholesale and foodservice, we
The supply chain self-starters brussels—Belgian group A De Witte has enjoyed a period of remarkable expansion, but says its focus on supplying quality fresh produce remains undiminished.
in the variety and hope for a successful season.”
do our own logistics with 80-90
Also present at the fair
trucks, we do our own ripening,
will be Tom van Herwaarden,
and we do a lot of packing for
new co-CEO of the group, who
supermarkets, as well as for our
was appointed in mid-2017 to
own brands, Cebon and Cibel,”
work alongside Patrick Maes,
he says. “We follow vertical inte-
brother of founder François
gration, trying to keep every step
Maes. Van Herwaarden, who
from the producer to the con-
worked in a wide range of
sumer in our own hands, allow-
sectors, including in fruit and
ing us to work with a little less of
vegetables with Chiquita, is
a margin.”
the first non-family member
The company now boasts 27
to direct the company. In
firms across Belgium, four of
addition to taking on the title of
which it started by itself, the
co-CEO, Van Herwaarden has
remainder being the result of
taken control over commercial
acquisitions.
activities as chief commercial
“We bought a fresh-cut com-
officer, while Patrick Maes
pany just under two years ago,”
assumed the position of chief
says Vermoere. “We are seeing a
operations officer.
trend in Belgium, as in the rest of Europe for products that are
by Tom Joyce
extremely fresh and require only a small amount of work, such as packaged wok vegetables. These
B
106
elgian group A De Witte may have seen its
products are actually helping to
scope of activities widen over the years, as
engage consumers.
it has acquired various companies across
“For many companies, fresh-cut
the country, but its priority has always remained
products such as ready-peeled pota-
the same: to deliver the highest possible quality to
toes are more to do with cost, since
its customers.
it can be expensive to pay someone
“We don’t sell anything we don’t believe in,” says
to peel potatoes. Such products now
marketing manager Stijn Vermoere. “That’s why we
come vacuum-packed and really
work with the likes of Delhaize and Carrefour, for
fresh, so the quality is much better
whom quality is more important than price.”
than in the past.” _ E
TOP LFT—Stijn Vermoere, marketing
manager at A De Witte
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.106.indd 106
05/12/2017 13:13
UIT IAL FR SPEC WBERRIES ST R A
BUY N
OW
365 DAYS
Discover our diverse range of homegrown berries & sustainably sourced exotics
www.specialfruit.be
SPE-6814-FruitLogiFebru2018-Adv B210xH297mm 61217.indd 1
SEE YOU AT FRUIT LOGISTICA 2018 7 > 9 / 02 / 2018 - BERLIN HALL 6.2 - BOOTH D10
6/12/17 08:07
features
report —Belgium
Zespri turns to CMA CGM
Colruyt buys into homegrown sweet potatoes
Kiwifruit company Zespri has called on cma cgm to handle its seafreight operation following Seatrade’s decision to exit the so-called Meridian shipping
west flanders—Belgian retailer Colruyt Group has stocked domestically cultivated sweet potatoes for the first time, as demand for the product continues to rise.
routes linking New Zealand to northern Europe and east coast
by Maura Maxwell
North America. As Zespri’s shipping manager Mike Knowles explains, the French container
B
elgium’s Colruyt Group
weather and local soil in the Flem-
is selling domestically
ish region are ideal for the cultiva-
grown sweet potatoes
tion of Beauregard sweet potatoes.
service on these routes.
for the first time at its Colruyt and
“Despite the cool summer, the har-
“We’ve partnered with Seatrade
Okay stores. The sweet potatoes,
vest was a success,” he says. “We
for many years and enjoyed
which are supplied by De Aard-
simply harvested a little later, in
excellent and loyal service
happelhoeve, a family producer
October.”
from the company, for which
based in the West-Flemish town
Colruyt buyer Lutgard Massaer
we thank them,” Knowles says.
of Tielt, are available between
says the group welcomes Belgian
December and January.
sweet potatoes as a valuable addi-
shipping company has stepped in to provide uninterrupted
“While it’s sad that they won’t be operating in New Zealand anymore, we’re confident that cma cgm will run an excellent service for the New Zealand kiwifruit industry in future. The French firm will provide a fixed-day, weekly service with a best-in-class 32-day transit to Zeebrugge next season – based around the purpose-built Seatrade colour-class ships and water-cooled containers. “This contract is a significant step forward in our relationship with cma cgm, one of the world’s top container lines,” Knowles adds. “This service is based on the fdd principle (Fast, Dedicated and Direct) and we’re confident that this service will be
“The transport costs [of export-
tion to the retailer’s produce offer-
successful for both parties.”
ing] are high and it is less sus-
ing, saying that if the trial proved
The news has been welcomed
tainable,” says co-founder Bart
successful, production would be
not only by the kiwifruit
Nemegheer. “So I thought, what if
expanded next season. “I have
industry, but by all New Zealand
we tried it here? Then there would
been buying sweet potatoes from
be daily supplies, close to home.”
Senegal, the US and Spain for
perishable shippers eager to move their goods quickly into the European market.
108
Demand
for
sweet
pota-
years now,” he comments. “Clearly,
toes is growing in Belgium, with
the product is on the rise. That is
the majority of supplies coming
why we seized the proposal of De
from the US and Africa. Howev-
Aardappelhoeve to set up a test
er, Nemegheer says that milder
project.” _ E
ABOVE—Demand
for sweet potatoes is on the rise in Belgium
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.108.indd 108
05/12/2017 13:28
Untitled-1 1
08/12/2017 12:16
features
report —Hillfresh
P
romoting products that are unhealthy for children has been an issue
for a many years, and retailers continue to face a big challenge as these products quickly lose ground in supermarkets across Europe – sadly, most healthy initiatives are not nearly as successful as those unhealthy ones. Dutch company Hillfresh is looking to be one of the first companies in the fresh fruit and vegetable industry that is able to fill in this gap. Nickelodeon, Viacom Consumer Products (nvcp) and Hillfresh have created a strong
ABOVE—Juisy-
alliance that may be able to fight those
multinationals
that
branded
the
mandarins with
group says have “infected our kids’
Nickelodeon
minds with unhealthy products”
characters
for many years. “With the power of the Nickelodeon brand we try to get kids to eat more healthy products,”
Hillfresh offers health hope
says Stephan Schneider, marketing manager for Hillfresh International. “Every week over 90 million children across Europe tune in to
barendrecht—Cooperation with Nickelodeon is key to creating better eating habits for children and fighting off the spectre of unhealthy foods.
Nickelodeon to see their favorite characters such as Blaze and the
by Carl Collen
Monster Machines, Paw Patrol, Dora the Explorer, Shimmer &
110
Shine, Teenage Mutant Ninja Tur-
al times over. After a while they will have learned to
The new Nickelodeon items will
tles and SpongeBob SquarePants.”
appreciate the taste of a good piece of fruit, changing
be added to the Hillfresh assort-
Aimed at promoting healthy
their eating pattern and setting them on their first
ment and branded under the com-
eating for children in a fun and
steps to a healthy lifestyle. One out of three children
pany’s new label, Juisy. This label is
playful
will
in Europe is overweight, and it is our responsibility
looking to surprise consumers with
launch a line of products that will
manner,
Hillfresh
to change the future for these new generations into a
not only a great tasting product but
include collectible playing cards
healthy one. Changing children’s eating patterns will
also
and packaging that inspires kids’
result in a serious reduction in risk of diseases like
innovative packaging solutions. _ E
creativity. Hillfresh will showcase
cancer and diabetes.”
the first items in this innovative
Hillfresh notes that its approach is not a new one
line of kids’ branded fruit and veg-
and has been used by big multinationals to get chil-
etables at Fruit Logistica in Berlin.
dren addicted to unhealthy products. Now, the Dutch
“The unique thing about this
company is effectively using this same strategy to get
range of products is that we
children to eat healthy products. “Our tactic of using
understand that children need to
toys and gifts is to my knowledge rather unique in
be rewarded for eating healthy,”
the market, Schneider continues. “During Fruit Logis-
Schneider continues. “By offer-
tica in Berlin we will be launching these new items
ing them free playing cards or
and will be looking for retailers who are looking to
attractive puzzles we are persuad-
get this positive publicity in bringing healthy fruit to
ing them to try a product sever-
a new generation.”
attractive
promotions
and
“With the power of the Nickelodeon brand we are trying to get children to eat more healthy products”
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.110.indd 110
07/12/2017 10:20
Untitled-2 1
07/12/2017 12:59
features
interview —Jack Aartsen, Aartsenfruit
The rise of Aartsenfruit
J
ack Aartsen, owner and chief executive at Bredabased fresh fruit and veg-
etable supplier Aartsenfruit, speaks to eurofruit about his company’s recent success, major expansion plans for 2018 and why he is all about ‘nonstopfresh’. What have been the most interesting advancements at Aartsenfruit in the
“I believe all trends are part of a single larger trend – taste. Consumers have had enough of bland fruit and vegetables”
breda—Dutch company Aartsenfruit Breda has enjoyed “explosive growth” in recent years, with more to come in 2018. by Carl Collen
Looking to the year ahead, what does it hold in store for Aartsenfruit? JA: Due to our incredible growth over the past three years,
past year? ing products, straight from our part-
our organisation is on the precipice of several big changes.
Jack Aartsen: Aartsenfruit is con-
ners to our clients – that is what we
Our headquarters in Breda will be enlarged to three times
tinuing its rapid growth! This is
call ‘nonstopfresh’. Our strategy is
its current size, and the warehouse in Breda will also be
the third year in a row in which we
also bearing fruit in Asia, where we
expanded, with more cooling capacity and a new packag-
have undergone explosive growth.
are growing in leaps and bounds. Our
ing warehouse.
We have seen this in all four of our
branch in Asia is now contributing to
In January, we will make a start on adding 3,000m2 of
branches, in both the Benelux and in
the overall strategy of the group, and
storage capacity to our warehouse in Venlo. It is wonder-
Asia, which is something we are very
we strongly augment one another.
ful that we are able to take these measures once more.
proud of.
However, our greatest challenge at the moment is related What trends have you noticed in the
What have your key business areas
to ict – that is where our focus will lie in 2018.
past year across your markets?
been in 2017?
How would you describe your ongoing philosophy? JA: There will always be trends, and
112
JA: We are a very boring organisa-
it is our job to keep following them.
JA: Aartsenfruit is ‘nonstopfresh’, and we aim to stay that
tion – haha! – because we stick to
The customer decides what the cus-
way. We are continually working on quality, both in terms
our strategy, which has once again
tomer wants. There is an increas-
of our product and our organisation, and have been for
proved successful. We deal with a
ing trend towards ripened fruit, but
over 110 years! ‘We are the gateway for fruits and vegeta-
huge assortment of fruits and veg-
I believe that all trends are part of
bles; thanks for flying with us’. _ E
etables, sourced directly from over
a single larger trend – taste! This
40 countries worldwide. You name
has been slowly but steadily build-
it, we sell it! Our focus is on our cus-
ing and advancing for several years
tomers throughout the Benelux area,
now. Consumers have had enough
and not just in the retail channel. A
of bland fruits and vegetables, and
continuous flow of the most amaz-
they are right.
TOP LEFT—Aartsenfruit’s Venlo warehouse is having an
additional 3,000m2 of storage capacity added this year TOP RIGHT—Jack Aartsen sees a demand for great taste as the
most crucial trend among consumers
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.112.indd 112
05/12/2017 14:09
#nonstopfreshfacts
08.Breda is the centre of the world of fresh fruit and vegetables. aartsenfruit.com When it comes to fresh, aartsenfruit goes the extra mile. We offer everything in the world of fruit and vegetables. Literally. Every day we make sure that our range of fresh fruit and vegetables from around the world find their way to our customers. In fact aartsenfruit is the international gateway for fresh fruit and vegetables. With destinations in the Benelux and Asia. Feel free to get more facts about aartsenfruit on our website or call us at +31(0)76 – 52 48 100 (NL) or +852 39 75 83 35 (Asia).
AAR16048_ADV_A4_B2B_WT2.indd 8
15/05/2017 13:11
features
INTERVIEW —Anton Filippo, LBP Rotterdam
packing operations but also our IT systems. We offer our clients an online stock information system that enables them to follow all stock movements online in real-time. This gives the customer the opportunity to see exactly when their fruit arrives, but also to see what actions we are taking. When we spoke at the beginning of 2016, you were very enthusiastic about your ripening operations. How have these developed?
Photo: Maaike Petri
AF: Our ripening operations are running smoothly. Our expectations were perhaps bigger than what actually happened but we have managed to build up great experience in ripening tropical fruits. Our ripening masters are experts in the science of fruit ripening and know exactly what is necessary to achieve the best results – we are running the facility for most of the year, and
Packing progression
there are some gaps, so we have space for more in future.
maasdijk—Anton Filippo of lbp Rotterdam talks to
AF: The major trend in our industry is that clients we
eurofruit about the company’s packing improvements
traditionally worked for have slimmed-down on vol-
and the markets it is eyeing for the future.
What market trends have you picked up on in 2017?
umes to Europe – China and South East Asia seem to be better markets. They are demanding in terms of quality, but more interesting when it comes to returns. This
by Carl Collen
has affected us, and we need to be creative in finding replacement business.
N
etherlands-based
logis-
Anton Filippo: The future of lbp lies
Looking ahead, what are your plans for 2018? What opportunities do you see for LBP Rotterdam?
tics company lbp Rotter-
in the areas we have been develop-
dam specialises in the
ing over the past five years. We have
handling, clearance and cool-stor-
invested intensively in our packing
AF: Our main plans are not that different to the plans
age of fresh produce from overseas
operations, and we are now able to
we had in 2017. Developing our packing side is a key focus
through the ports of Rotterdam or
offer services that can answer most
and we need all our time and energy to put our new ser-
Antwerp, or Amsterdam Airport. lbp
of the demands of our clients, includ-
vices into the market, and teach exporters that they can
also offers a range of other services
ing blueberry packing with heat-
come to us for packing fruit as well – that applies to any
such as fruit quality inspection,
sealed punnets, flow packing, citrus
fruit. Aside from that, our everyday challenge is to be
sorting and repacking, labelling and
packing and so on. On top of this, we
better than the rest, which I believe we still are.
netting, as well as European dis-
will be installing a state-of-the-art
tribution. With such wide a scope,
multi-functional packing line that we
sales manager Anton Filippo is well
will be initially using, for example, for
placed to not only speak about the
punnet packing grapes, but also sort-
AF: There are markets under development that could
recent developments at the group,
ing limes and packing cherries.
potentially be interesting for us. Colombia is one of
but also highlight trends in the
Are you eyeing any new markets?
them, not only for avocados but also for its traditional
wider fresh produce market.
What were your key aims in 2017?
What have been the major develop-
AF: Our focus in 2017 has been to
markets to the US. Elsewhere, Peru is already an impor-
ments at LBP Rotterdam in the past
do better than in 2016! Our systems
tant fruit exporting country but the development and
year?
have been upgraded, not only our
potential there is still huge.
exotic products. The same applies to Mexico, which is changing its focus a little bit as it looks for alternative
114
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.114-115.indd 114
05/12/2017 13:22
features
You have previously spoken of your involvement in an ‘Expert Logistics Team’. What is the latest? AF: The expert team only meets when the need arises, although I personally believe that it would not harm anyone to share information more frequently than today. We have succeeded in some interesting measures for our industry, such as piloting the container scanning which will be a stepping-stone to our new scanning system in the port. Do the values the company held when being set up still apply today? AF: lbp has been here for 25 years, starting with a customer in Brazil that, at the time, wanted to have more control of their fruit after the arrival of the container in Europe but before it went to the final client. Although our quality control systems were not as advanced then
and will only be sold after the ship-
as they are now, and our cooling facilities were not as
per knows what the quality is like on
in Latin American markets such as
they are today, it was the beginning of what turned out
arrival, or what the state of the
Colombia, Mexico and Peru
to be a successful concept.
market is. So, that same concept
ABOVE—LBP has invested heavily in its
Today, we are still working with overseas exporters
from 25 years ago still works
packing operations in recent years
of fruit that need to stop on arrival in Europe to check
extremely well. In fact that first
the quality or because the container has fruit on board
client from Brazil is still one of our
OPPOSITE—Anton Filippo sees potential
Photo: Maaike Petri
LBP EF January 2018.pdf 1 30/11/2017 12:25 for more than one customer. Sometimes fruit arrives most important customers. _ E
Visit us at Fruit Logistica Hall 3.2 | Stand B-26
• tel.: 0031-174-530550
• fax: 0031-20-7969211
• afi@lbp.net
www.lbp.net january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.114-115.indd 115
115
05/12/2017 13:22
features
report —Rijk Zwan & Levarht
Melon collaboration adana—Dutch seed company Rijk Zwaan is helping exporter Levarht fill a key supply gap by introducing Turkey to its melon supply portfolio. by Carl Collen The pilot project was necessary to build knowledge about production techniques, the right time to harvest, postharvest handling and logistics, according to van Egmond, a process that is far from simple and costs time and money to complete. “Rijk Zwaan is supporting the grower in acquiring the knowledge,” he notes. “Last year they visited José Lopez – grower of Caribbean melons in Honduras – together, and the Turkish growers also visited our retail customer in the Middle East to see how the melons are displayed in stores. All the activities are focused on being able to supply Caribbean melons with the same quality and flavour all year round, because if consumers know they can depend on that, they will buy the product more often – and that’s good for all the chain partners: Rijk Zwaan, the growers, us and the
N
etherlands-based fresh produce exporter Levarht has enlisted the help of seed specialist Rijk Zwaan to fill a supply gap for melons in
Caribbean King RZ variety of
the Middle East. Levarht, which consistently maintains
melon from Rijk
short lines of communication with growers, Rijk Zwaan
Zwaan
and retailers, aims to provide a year-round supply of high-quality products such as Caribbean melons. In the Middle East, the company sources the Caribbean Gold
116
TOP—The
ABOVE—Grower
visits help educate on production methods
retailer. If this goes well, we expect to be able to offer a year-round supply of Caribbean to other sales markets in the future too.” Rijk Zwaan’s role Turkey is one of the world’s biggest producers of melons, grown outdoors from May to September, with the local melon type, Kirkagaç, a particular favourite
RZ variety from late January until mid-May, while its
among consumers, although Galia is also sold there.
Brazilian grower supplies the same variety from late-
However, to stimulate the export of the fruit, local
August through to January – but Levarht wasn’t able to
growers also need to produce varieties that are popu-
supply the market from May until late September.
lar outside of Turkey.
“One of our joint projects is to achieve year-round
“That’s why, in close consultation with Levarht, Rijk
availability of high-quality Canteloupe melons from the
Zwaan has introduced the Caribbean King RZ variety
Caribbean range, because retailers in the Middle East
in Turkey,” the group outlines. “Just like all the other
want to offer their consumers the same melons through-
varieties in the Caribbean range, it has bright orange
out the entire year,” says Levarht’s Gerbert van Egmond.
flesh, a high sugar content and a long shelf life.”
“I mentioned this to Rijk Zwaan, and then last year, in
Rijk Zwaan established the initial contact between
close consultation, we started a pilot project with a Turk-
the Turkish grower and the Dutch exporter and is now
ish grower to trial the Caribbean King RZ variety. Turkey
providing technical advice. “If this project is a success,
has the ideal climate for melon production and also has
Turkey can further expand its melon export activities
a favourable position geographically with respect to the
to countries such as Russia, Ukraine, the Balkans and
Middle East.”
the Middle East,” the group adds. _ E
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.116.indd 116
05/12/2017 13:25
Tailor made inspiration at
Last year, Rijk Zwaan opened its Retail Experience Center in Berlin. The substantial knowledge and experience about the fresh produce departments at retailers Rijk Zwaan gained, and the success and failures of product introductions or consumer acceptance form the basis for this Retail Center. The second season of the Retail Center starts during Fruit Logistica. Visit us in Hall 1.2, stand D-05 and get your entrance ticket to the Retail Center. More information on www.rijkzwaan.com
Retail Center Eurofruit 210x297_2018 v1.indd 1
29-11-2017 15:20:38
FEATURES
REPORT —Kloosterboer
RIGHT—The
thriving transportation links around Kloosterboer’s Cool Port Ro erdam BELOW—An
artistic impression of Cool Port II
T
hese are exciting times for
tion centre. This combination means
Dutch distribution and
that logistics costs are kept to a min-
logistics company Kloos-
imum, aided by the trimodal nature
terboer, which is being steered in a
of Cool Port and its proximity to the
direction of growth and innovation
likes of Barendrecht and Westland.
under the leadership of chief exec-
Rather than standing and admir-
utive officer Jaco Hooij, as it aims to
ing its achievements, Kloosterboer
provide a full range of logistical ser-
is aiming to continue expanding its
advancements afoot at Kloosterboer,
vices for its clients. New develop-
offering moving forward. Plans for
which is following up last year’s Cool
ments have come thick and fast in
2018 include planning further devel-
recent times, including the recently
opment for phase 2 of Cool Port.
Port Rotterdam launch with several new
launched Cool Port Rotterdam facil-
Having the fruit arrive directly on the
ity, and the beginning of construc-
quayside or transported by inland
tion of the fully automated high-bay
barge from Maasvlakte, or receiving it
coldstore in Lelystad, which will open
by rail, is the biggest advantage of the
in the fourth quarter of 2018 and
location in Ro erdam. Empty depots
will boast a capacity of 40,000 pallet
will
spaces. “These show that the exper-
expenses, and there are huge packing
tise of Kloosterboer is helping move
facilities in the building. This will be
towards the development of sys-
key for Kloosterboer.
tems that ultimately benefit the cli-
118
Kloosterboer kicks on
minimise
The
all
company’s
rotterdam—There are major
projects in 2018. by Carl Collen
transportation
management
ents,” explains Hooij. “A higher degree
has also put in place plans to build
of automisation and robotisation, as
a European network in the coming
well as information exchange within
years that utilises IT systems,
the supply chain, should improve the
enabling the group to have an opti-
services our clients enjoy.”
mal level of service for its clients and
While Kloosterboer is expanding
ultimately unburden its custom-
its facilities, it is also adding more ser-
ers of their logistical issues – mini-
vices to its existing operations. Within
mising waiting times and additional
Cool Port, the group has found an
expenses like customs checks, wait-
“ideal cooperation” with Looije Pack-
ing times and quality checks. The
aging, Cool Port Packing Ro erdam,
company also considers food safety,
“Kloosterboer aims to be recognised for its sustainable
which was established by Piet Looije
tracking and tracing throughout the
approach,” adds Hooij. “We do our utmost to deliver a real
within Kloosterboer’s facility. This is
supply chain essential, and as such
contribution to the ‘people-planet-profit’ philosophy. New
described as a unique combination
has facilities at source countries
projects are built according to the most environmentally
that offers clients a “total logistics
like South Africa and Peru to ensure
friendly guidelines. Also, green energy has our focus; solar
concept”, from arrival in containers
full transparency, as well as Euro-
panels and wind turbines to power the refrigeration sys-
at Ro erdam through to pre-packed
pean facilities serving all perishable
tems in our coldstores. And, where possible, we make use
delivery at the supermarket distribu-
importers and exporters.
of sustainable transport methods.” _ E
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.118-119.indd 118
07/12/2017 10:27
FEATURES
REPORT —Hazera
Crucial crucifers
LEFT—Hazera’s
Warmenhuizen facility is currently under construction
warmenhuizen— Hazera will open a new, technologically advanced
in Warmenhuizen, the newly constructed site consists
its knowledge base.
mainly of greenhouses, research buildings and offices
“Local climate plays an important
crucifers seed breeding
across a total area of 10ha, making it larger than the com-
role in our research,” van Wijk adds.
station in the Netherlands
pany’s current location in Tuitjenhorn.
“We want seeds that grow into cab-
this March. by Carl Collen
F
ollowing a long period preparation,
bages that are resistant to disease,
logical features, including climate control in our green-
drought, dampness and heat. By
houses,” explains breeding director Rik van Wijk, who
looking deeper and deeper into the
adds that the research facilities boast state-of-the-art
plant, we get helpful information.
equipment, and will specifically focus on cabbage and
We do our part for quality, the grower
radish seeds. “This station prepares us for the future.”
adds his, and because we think local-
Operating globally but with a connection to local
ly we can respond well to local issues
Dutch
growers, Hazera is familiar with local vegetable culti-
–
group Hazera Seeds will
vation practices, boasting around 35ha of test plots in
requires
officially launch its new crucifers
a radius of 20km. On these plots, research into charac-
than other regions. We take all that
seed breeding station in March this
teristics such as taste, appearance, reliability of cultiva-
into account as we supply seeds all
year. Located on the Machinestraat
tion, harvesting and shelf-life helps the group improve
over the world.” _ E
p.118-119.indd 119
of
“Everything is new, with the most advanced techno-
for
example different
central
Europe
characteristics
07/12/2017 10:27
features
report —Capespan
Capespan boosts European offering
of Capespan Fruit
rotterdam—The South African fresh
Port is also directly connected to the
produce company has shifted its European
main motorways and railways, offer-
storage and distribution operation to
ing it multiple logistical solutions
Kloosterboer’s Cool Port Rotterdam.
to the new Cool Port facility RIGHT—Leon van Biljon, chief executive
bution by shortsea to markets such as Scandinavia and the Baltic States. Capespan points out that Cool
for distribution to remote European locations. “Capespan, in its pursuit to deliv-
reporters at the time, describing the
er an optimal service to its market
project as a “big step forward” for the
and grower customers, has to con-
company. “The location has proved
tinuously re-invent and refine its
attractive and we can already con-
apespan has moved its European fruit storage
business model to remain relevant
clude that Cool Port is a great success.
and distribution activity from the port of Vliss-
in an ever-changing environment,”
Even before the doors were opened
ingen to Kloosterboer’s recently opened Cool
explains Leon van Biljon, chief exec-
80 per cent of the storage space had
Port logistics facility at Waalhaven, Rotterdam port. The
utive of Capespan Fruit. “It there-
already been reserved resulting in the
decision to move is in line with Capespan’s focus to pro-
fore remains focused on improving,
need for and reality of Cool Port II
vide its customers with wider and more efficient service
streamlining and simplifying its ser-
growing one step closer.” _ E
solutions, according to the company’s supply chain man-
vice offering to create more value for
ager Danny Simons.
all its stakeholders.”
by Carl Collen
C
120
ABOVE—Capespan has taken its business
The transition, which was completed at the end of
Kloosterboer’s Cool Port Rotter-
November last year, now allows Capespan to utilise a
dam facility took delivery of its first
state-of-the-art facility boasting a 40,000 pallet capacity
containers of fruit in May last year –
from cooling to deep-freeze, 38 dock shelters and a 7,500m²
a consignment consisting of pallets
dedicated service area. Under the same roof, Cool Port
of fresh pomegranates imported by
Packing BV offers a wide range of value-added services,
Total Produce BV.
with new machinery allowing Capespan to repack its fruit
“The Cool Port project is an inno-
into smaller consumer-oriented packaging, as required by
vative, logistics solution which incor-
its customers.
porates barging, automated process
Situated on the water, Cool Port offers daily barge ser-
management and information provi-
vices from the deep-sea terminals to its warehouse, with
sion in the supply chain,” Kloosterbo-
the waterside location also offering possibilities for distri-
er chief executive Jaco Hooij told
Video bit.ly/Capewater
Capespan unveils its newly installed, fully operational water pipe in Namibia.
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.120.indd 120
05/12/2017 13:28
ENJOY
THE MOST UNIQUE & TASTY
FRUIT & VEGETABLES Visit our stand at Fruit Logistica
Want to be inspired how to boost your exotic & berries categories? Visit our stand at Fruit Logistica! Hall 1.2, Stand A-07
WWW.NATURESPRIDE.EU
Nature’s Pride - Maasdijk, Holland T: 0031 174 525 900 - E: info@naturespride.nl
This y ear: same hall, differe nt loca tion!
features
report —OTC Holland
Supply success lelystad—otc Holland has focused on the crucial area of
Senegalese mangoes
supply development in 2017. Here, the group outlines four
otc is working with an organic
successful projects that have helped expand its range.
growers’
cooperative
southern located
by Carl Collen
Casamance between
in
the
region,
Gambia
and
Guinea-Bissau. The cooperative has 500 members, of which 70 are organic growers. “What makes
S
ince its founding in 2004,
opment team with roots in these
this cooperative so special is that
Dutch fresh organic fruit
particular countries are develop-
all members are active through-
and vegetable importer-
ing various grower projects. Sev-
out the entire production chain:
exporter otc Holland has tapped
eral times per year they can be
from cultivation to harvesting
into increasing demand for organic
found in the countryside, talking
and from sorting to packaging,”
produce, expanding its range to
to conventional growers to inform
Soares explains.
over 100 products. The past year
them and guide them through the
has seen several developments,
options for organic farming, and
from the northwest of Sene-
according to Núria Vlonk-Cunha
in particular to get them enthusi-
gal Niayés region by cooperat-
Soares and Alexander Restrepo
astic about organic farming. They
ing with Sunuagrix, which has
of the group’s development team,
work very closely with the grow-
56 farming contracts with mango
beginning with supply develop-
ers in order to bring production
producers who are EU-Bio and
ment – in Latin America and West
and markets together.”
Globalgap certified with a total
Africa in particular – which has
122
These
efforts
also
sources
mangoes
result-
capacity of 1,000 tonnes. The com-
become an important area of focus
ed in several successful supply
pany offers technical assistant to
for the company.
projects. From last year, otc
the farmers, through field agents
“By developing new projects,
expanded its product range with
that live in the community and
otc aims to connect new suppli-
organic Kent mangoes from Sen-
who are connected to technical
ers and producers to their cus-
egal,
from
agents at Sunuagrix. This struc-
tomers, in order to respond better
Burkina Faso, year-round organ-
ture fosters a smooth process in
to market needs,” Restrepo tells
ic pineapples from Côte D’Ivoire
the value chain, leading to better
eurofruit. “otc’s project devel-
and organic limes from Colombia.
mango quality.
organic
have
otc
mangoes
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.122-123.indd 122
05/12/2017 14:17
features
market demand for the fruit. The 35 certified local growers and one local exporter who are part of the project can provide their customers with organic limes throughout the year. CÔte D’Ivoire pineapples
“As part of a Colombian government subsidy
The group started to develop
programme, the cooperative was set up six years
year-round
pineapple
ago to give small farmers a chance to be self-suffi-
production in the country in
organic
cient,” says Restrepo. “otc assisted these growers
partnership with a Bonoua-based
in obtaining organic certification, with the focus
growers’
lead-
on delivering quality and continuity, showing them
ing pineapple growing area of
how to make organic compost themselves in order
Côte d’Ivoire, which in turn sup-
to become independent.” In addition to limes, otc is
ports the growers with technical
starting, and in some cases expanding, production
advice.
of avocados and mangoes in Latin America.
collective,
the
Together with the growers
OPPOSITE LEFT—OTC’s project
otc has also invested in infra-
Burkina Faso mangoes
structure so that the pineapples
In addition to supply development, otc has also
are optimally harvested, sorted,
invested in several projects, such as the organic
packaged and transported. The
mango sector in Burkina Faso. Together with its
result of this is that they are
partner Sanlé Sechage Export in Banfora, otc has
expecting weekly arrivals, year-
backed the construction of a new packing station
round. To help them meet cli-
with a mango sorting line and a cold chamber. Com-
matic and commercial challenges
bined with its drying plant for mangoes at the same
otc is assisting these growers in
location, the group is anticipating a huge leap for-
obtaining Globalgap certification
ward in the coming years.
and offering additional guidance
“In 2018 the focus of otc will remain on supply
through organic farming options
so that they are able to better
development projects including organic ginger, tur-
OPPOSITE ABOVE—Senegalese mangoes
cope with future challenges.
meric, avocados, passion fruit and the year-round
development team guides growers
from the Casamance region ABOVE—The group has invested in
supply of papayas,” Soares adds. “In addition, greenColombian limes
house vegetables are regaining a prominent role at
An organic limes project in Colom-
otc. Just like previous years, otc will be present at
bia has been created in cooper-
Fruit Logistica in Berlin to establish new business
TOP RIGHT—Organic pineapples from
ation with a Colombian grower
contacts, source new suppliers and find out about
Bonoua in Côte D’Ivoire
cooperative,
new products.” _ E
Burkina Faso TOP —High demand has driven the
Colombian limes project
due
to
the
high
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.122-123.indd 123
123
05/12/2017 14:17
features
report —Primland
Primland commits to overseas markets Primland began harvesting its early, green variety Sum-
labatud—Primland has pledged to supply all its
merkiwi in early October, and started marketing it towards
international customers with Oscar kiwifruit this season,
the end of that month. Picking and packing of its Oscar-
which sees reduced volumes from other sources.
branded Hayward green kiwifruit began as normal at the start of November, arriving in Asia three to four weeks later. European sales started at the end of the month when opti-
by Luisa Cheshire
mal fruit sugar levels had been reached. The firm plans to supply 14,000-15,000 tonnes to its European markets (France, Belgium, the UK, Spain and Germany), and ship some 5,000 tonnes to Asia. “France benefited from a good growing season,” says Jean-Baptiste Pinel, Primland managing director. “Spring temperatures didn’t drop as low as they did in Italy, plus all our orchards are equipped with an anti-frost system. We didn’t have a hot summer, and we had enough rain. Unlike Italy and Portugal, which are struggling with small fruit, the French crop has a good size profile and quality is looking good.” Pinel is confident Primland will increase its exports to Vietnam – which opened to French kiwifruit last year – this season; and says his company’s volumes to other Asian markets (China, Taiwan, Thailand) are growing year-onyear. European demand is rising too. “Our growers are planting new orchards of green and gold kiwifruit to keep up with increasing international demand,” says Pinel. “This season, demand will definitely be there.” Primland lays claim to being the first grower group in France to produce green Hayward kiwifruit, back in 2003 when its first vines were planted. The firm subsequently launched the Summerkiwi – a sweeter, earlier green variety
ABOVE—Primland
is exhibiting at Fruit Logistica in February
F
rench kiwifruit grower-shipper Primland has committed to supplying all its international cus-
“Summerkiwi cultivation is very similar to that of the
tomers with Oscar-branded Hayward kiwifruit
Hayward,” says Primland communications director Olivi-
this season. Its announcement, released in November last year, coincided with the start of its Oscar kiwifruit harvest and
er Pouilhes. “In order to convince farmers to grow it, Primland highlights the variety’s low frost risk and the benefit of extending the season.”
the first few weeks of the new European kiwifruit season,
More recently, Primland has positioned itself as an inno-
which sees reduced volumes from key supply countries like
vative actor on the global golden kiwifruit stage with its
Italy and Portugal due to frost damage.
Oscar Gold variety. “It is as large as the Hayward, and stands
In a press release, the marketer announced “a successful harvest which ensures volumes in the markets”. “Primland announces a harvest that will supply all
124
than its Hayward cousin.
out thanks to its elongated shape, smooth skin and golden flesh,” says Pouilhes. “Our discerning customers, especially children, appreciate the golden kiwifruit’s sweetness.
its customers. Such a situation is made possible thanks
“The development strategy of these varieties relies on a
to the quality of its terroir, the know-how of 300 produc-
detailed analysis of the land, or terroir, in which it is grown,”
ers, the permanent advice of Primland’s technical teams
he adds. “For example, golden kiwifruit are reserved for ter-
and the facilities that protect all the orchards from frost,”
roirs where there is a minimal risk of frost. Summerkiwi
Primland said.
can cope with hardier conditions.” _ E
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.124.indd 124
05/12/2017 13:30
Untitled-1 1
08/12/2017 13:16
features
report —Cardell
Cardell plays its cards right
Although an agricultural disaster was declared across France in late April after temperatures plunged below -7°C in some parts of the country, nationally the apple crop is expected to be only 10-15 per cent down on last year, with southern regions even less affected.
avignon—In the global apple game, it’s all about the varieties in your pack. And Cardell believes it’s been dealt a winner.
Use of protection systems, such as heaters, anti-freezing towers and water sprinklers, succeeded in limiting crop damage in some areas. “So far we are lucky with a good crop to offer to our customers,” says Marc Peyres, export
by Luisa Cheshire
manager of Montauban-headquartered marketer Blue Whale. “But a lot can happen between now and the end of our season. “The coming season will definitely be a very special one, but every year over the last 25 have been different,” says Peyres. “That is why we are still here with passion and enthusiasm.” FAR LEFT—Cardell
Export’s organic Juliet variety is increasingly popular in Asia LEFT—Daniel
Corbel, Cardell export managing director
E
urope’s 2017/18 apple deal
with Cardell’s Juliet variety, Corbel
may be short, but this
adds. And the firm is awaiting pro-
shouldn’t
France-
duction from new Juliet orchards
based Cardell Export winning more
before attempting to target this
sales in South East Asia this season,
huge market.
stop
according to its managing director Daniel Corbel. That’s because the Avignonheadquartered
company
has
Pink Lady sales are also develop-
a
ing overseas. However, this year the
trump card up its sleeve, namely its
variety was adversely affected by
queen of organic apples: Juliet.
weather issues, which has reduced
“Although apple volumes are down, we have enough of our
126
In terms of general French apple export trends, Corbel notes that
its volumes and therefore limited export opportunities.
organic variety Juliet,” Corbel says.
New French clones of Royal Gala
“Organic produce is in really high
continue to replace the original
demand in the South East Asia
variety in the global market place,
region,” he explains, “and higher
he adds. “These new clones have
prices do not slow demand on
higher colour,” Corbel explains, “and
healthy fruit.”
their volumes are similar to last
Consumers across Asia, with the
year. The new clones are replacing
exception of China, are now familiar
the original Galas where the colour
CHINA Cardell Export is awaiting production from newly planted Juliet orchards before trying to tap into the vast Chinese apple market. “So as to have enough volume to offer,” says managing director Daniel Corbel
was hardly reaching 60/70 per cent red.” Meanwhile, traditional French varieties Granny Smith and Golden Delicious are trying to find new outlets overseas since losing their main markets Russia and Algeria, says Corbel. “Cardell Export will of course be present at Fruit Logistica in Berlin, with a larger booth to be able to receive our visitors/customers more comfortably,” he adds. _ E
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.126.indd 126
05/12/2017 14:21
Untitled-1 1
08/12/2017 13:31
features
report —Pink Lady
PinKids in Despicable tie-up
Pink Lady is expecting a six per drop in production this season following frost damage in the spring. European apple production is set to fall sharply in 2017/18 as a result of the frosts that
paris—This season, the Pink Lady apple brand PinKids is
swept through the continent in April and the
enlisting Gru and his minions to increase its marketing
spring and early summer droughts.
reach to children across Europe.
Figures from the annual Prognosfruit forecast pointed to a total EU apple crop of 9.343m tones – a 21 per cent decrease on last year and a 23 per
by Luisa Cheshire
cent fall on the three-year average. Last season Pink Lady posted encouraging sales, with volumes rising four per cent to 176,000 tonnes, but this season the Cripps Pink variety has been hit by a six per cent fall in production. The brand remains positive of its prospects for the coming season, however, saying it intends to maintain positive results. Before the first Pink Lady apples were picked at the end of October, the brand met with its partners at the International Fruit Attraction trade show in Madrid on 18-20 October. At the show it unveiled three new exclusive shopping bag designs and a Pink Lady tote bag.
inKids is launching new packaging this
“This new partnership means
“Thus Pink Lady is combin-
season to celebrate the dvd release of chil-
we can capitalise on the event to
ing environmental responsibili-
dren’s computer-animated hit Despicable
launch produce from our latest
ty with entertainment by opting
me 3 and boost its ratings among Europe’s youngest
harvest and attract young con-
for strategic positioning with the
apple consumers.
sumers to the fruit and vegetable
biggest animated film franchise
P
The child-centric Pink Lady apple brand’s new
aisle, which is so often ignored by
in Europe, Despicable Me 3, which
packaging will feature the film’s main character Gru
this demographic,” says Julia Savin,
has already won the heart of the
and his minions, and will be available in Europe from
communications
little ones.”
November to January.
Lady Europe.
director,
Pink
The three-month packaging campaign will be
The PinKids brand, the brain-
enced 100 per cent growth in volume
applied to trays of four, six and eight small-sized Pink
child of Pink Lady apple produc-
terms last season (2016/17), and the
Lady apples, and will include pouchbags and exclu-
ers, was launched in Europe in 2012
number of its partner stores doubled,
sive collectors stickers on each apple, PinKids market-
as a vehicle to market small sizes of
adds Savin.
er Pink Lady Europe reveals.
each season’s Pink Lady crop.
“These Pink Lady apples, which are small in size, are perfect for children, who tend to have trouble finishing a whole standardsized apple”
“PinKids intends to continue its
“These apples, which are small
growth,” she says. “The brand hopes
in size, are perfect for children,
that its 5,000 tonnes of small gourmet
who tend to have trouble finish-
apples can provide a much needed
ing a whole standard-sized apple,”
boost to Europe’s fruit and vegetable
says Savin. “In addition, high qual-
aisles, which are in decline.” _ E
ity is guaranteed as the apples must meet the same requirements as their big sister. Finally, by marketing smaller apples, we dramatically reduce food waste,” she continues.
128
PinKids European sales experi-
ABOVE—PinKids new Despicable Me 3
inspired packaging will be available from November to January this season
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.128.indd 128
05/12/2017 14:29
A BRAND-NEW TV ADVERTISING CAMPAIGN TFUL AN IMPAC MEDIA PLAN
270 MILLION contacts 70% COVERAGE
- All rights reserved. Pink Lady速 is used to market the Cripps Pink (C.O.V.) variety.
Audience on our target age bracket of 25/59 years
CORPORATE COMMUNICATION WITH STRONG VALUES
100% of producers certified and committed to a responsible approach that respects biodiversity and natural resources.
We apply a zero-waste policy to our production (small apples with Pinkids速, apples for cooking with Miss Chef速, industrial partnerships etc.)
A collective model driven by strong values of responsibility, equity and the sharing of experiences and expertises. Meticulous work performed by passionate people, guarantors of quality, who are responsible for their brand and their future.
www.pinkladyeurope.com
Pink Lady速, so much more than an apple.
features
report —Fruits Union
Teraneo inks marketing agreement with Fruits Union
“Teraneo and Fruits-Union have always shared common values, which place the product and people at the heart of their strategy,”
loriol—Teraneo is the fifth and largest stonefruit grower group to enter the Fruits-Union stable.
Fruits-Union communications officer Maelle Olive says. “All of the five partner organisations under the Fruits-Union
by Luisa Cheshire
umbrella are focused on sustainable and high-quality production, and share the wish to optimise their
F
rench stonefruit grower cooperative Teraneo
tonnes of peaches and nectar-
and French stonefruit marketer Fruits Union
ines, and 150 tonnes of cherries for
Following this latest merger,
joined forces in 2017 to become France’s lead-
the entire stonefruit season (from
Fruits-Union will have a turnover
May to September); as well as 1,500
of some €35m, of which €25m comes
tonnes of organic stonefruit.
from stonefruit.
ing stonefruit supplier. Teraneo is the largest producer group to come under
130
offer and services.”
the Union Fruits marketing umbrella, which comprises
Collectively, the group’s produc-
Teraneo is also a major vegetable
four other partners: Lorifruit, Domaine de L’ile, Saveurs
tion spans a vast area, from the
producer, with some 4,000 tonnes of
du Jarez and Primland.
Lyonnais hills to the Pyrenees, and
artichokes, 1,000 tonnes of celery,
This latest merger makes Unions Fruits the biggest
includes premium French brands,
1,500 tonnes of potatoes, and 7m
stonefruit marketer in southern France, with the abil-
such as Label Rouge apricots, as
heads of salad, all of which will now
ity to supply around 10,000 tonnes of apricots, 11,000
well as Pechevigne and Nectavigne.
be marketed by Fruits Union. _ E
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.130.indd 130
05/12/2017 13:39
Untitled-1 1
05/12/2017 16:01
features
report —Germany
Greenyard’s Stefan Reincke joins Landgard straelen-herongen—One of Europe’s foremost produce import specialists has been asked to help transform Godeland into a full-range fresh fruit and veg supplier. by Mike Knowles & Fred Searle
S
tefan Reincke, one of
ence in produce sourcing – includ-
Europe’s leading fresh
ing, most recently, over 11 years as
produce import experts,
managing director of Greenyard
has been handed the task of trans-
Fresh Germany – he will lead Gode-
forming German vegetable mar-
land as the cooperative’s members
keting specialist and Landgard
bid to establish a more interna-
subsidiary Godeland into a com-
tional operation that encompasses
pany that can supply major retail
a broader range of fruit and vege-
customers with a full range of
tables, including imports to com-
products throughout the year.
plement their own offer.
Drawing on two decades’ experi-
132
Reincke
has
been
close-
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.132-133.indd 132
05/12/2017 16:04
features
ly involved in the fresh produce business for two
Better than ever
decades, joining what was then Univeg Direct Fruit
Landgard returns to Fruit Logistica
Marketing in 1998 and heading up the development of
next month in fine fettle, having
overseas imports as well as operational management.
registered its highest ever profit in
More recently, he emerged as a specialist in exotics,
2016 in difficult market conditions.
one of the company’s key growth areas.
That result was seen as capping an
Godeland, which markets produce grown in the
impressive turnaround for a busi-
northern part of Germany, was founded in 2006 fol-
ness that had at times struggled
lowing the merger of producer organisations Land-
over the previous decade. Earnings
gard, Veiling Hamburg and Godeland with trading
before interest, taxes and depre-
firms Reimer Hauschildt and R Beckmann.
ciation at the German fresh pro-
According to Landgard, Reincke’s appointment
duce marketer increased to €55m,
reflects a desire to provide a fuller service to retail cus-
while operating profit for the year
tomers in Germany by adding a single source of for-
reached €28.6m – the highest level
eign products to what it already supplies. “Based on
in the company’s history. Pre-tax
Landgard’s strong regional and national sourcing
profits also rose by nearly 50 per
expertise with its own member companies, Stefan
cent, increasing from €5m to €7.2m.
Reincke will continue to build and expand Landgard’s
This group also said it had man-
international buying, sourcing and distribution exper-
aged to increase its fresh produce
tise overseas for its strategic trading partners, with a
sales by around 30 per cent over
focus on the north,” commented Armin Rehberg, chief
the past two years. _ E
executive of Landgard. Reincke is expected to work with the existing sales directors of companies in the Landgard group, including Godeland, Landgard West Obst & Gemüse, Magli & Noel, Walter Pott and Landgard Ost Obst & Gemüse.
p.132-133.indd 133
OPPOSITE TOP—Stefan Reincke has joined
Landgard from Greenyard Fresh Germany OPPOSITE BOTTOM—TV chef Sebastian
Guarded response German firm McAirlaid’s says its micro-pore technology FreshGuard has achieved “fantastic results” in recent tests involving fresh pears and nectarines. Both are climacteric fruits, which means they ripen after harvesting; that ripeness can accelerate if they are exposed to ethylene. Using ethylene-absorbant FreshGuard EC pads inside packaging to limit ripening and lengthen shelf-life apparently helped to minimise weight loss and shrivel for both product types, while curbing the onset of what the group describes as “internal breakdown” in retail packs. McAirlaid’s points out that the incidence of bruising and damage that can be caused by pack vibration in transit is also reduced when using their pad technology.
Lege on the group’s Fruit Logistica stand
05/12/2017 16:04
features
report —Germany
A productive partnership monheim am rhein—Bayer and Globalgap are working together to foster improvement and sustainability among fresh fruit and vegetable growers in south-east Asia hoping to supply international markets. by Mike Knowles
ABOVE—Harvest time in Thailand
JOIN US AT OUR NEWS CONFERENCE AT
FRUIT LOGISTICA 2018 8 February, 12.30 - 1.30 p.m. Berlin Fairgrounds, Press Center Hall 6.3, Room B VISIT US AT OUR BOOTH 7-9 February in Berlin, Germany Hall 5.2, Booth D-08 www.globalgap.org/events 7|8|9 FEBRUARY 2018 | BERLIN
134
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.134-135.indd 134
05/12/2017 14:40
features
W
ith global demand increasing for safe, high-
tection
and
duce,” he explains. “In a similar
quality food, more attention is apparently
how work safety rules can protect
fashion, Globalgap can be seen as a
products
properly
being placed on Asia, where as much as 77
them. Baygap, which has already
‘visa’ that allows farmers to export
per cent of the world’s vegetables and 45 per cent of its
been translated into ten languages,
agricultural produce to retailers in
fruit are produced. However, market access in Europe
helps them develop easy but effec-
Europe and other parts of the
depends more than ever on having the right certifica-
tive solutions, produce in a safe and
world.” As soon as farmers have
tion, which in turn depends on production meeting
sustainable way, and get their pro-
learned all the basics, they can
the right standards in terms of sustainability.
duce on the market. In turn, Guen-
move forward and work toward
That need for compliance has prompted Bayer
del says, they will be able to pass
international certification, which
CropScience and Cologne-based certification provid-
that knowledge on to local farmers.
can be a huge achievement for the
er Globalgap to team up with Thailand’s Kasetsart
Globalgap’s Dr Kliment Petrov,
University to establish the Baygap Service Program,
a Bulgarian who is credited with
a scheme that provides farmers with the necessary
developing the first local gap stan-
training to grow in a sustainable manner and compete
dard in eastern Europe in response
in the international market. Bayer also plans to sup-
to growing demand from super-
port farmers in Indonesia, the Philippines, Vietnam,
market
and Malaysia with a similar programme.
gramme prepares farmers to meet
In south-east Asia, ensuring good agricultural prac-
various
buyers,
says
certification
the
pro-
standards,
tices is a major concern. As a result, says Bayer’s global
from local and national standards
head of food chain relations Ronald Guendel, extensive
such as Thaigap to global schemes
training manuals are central to Baygap. “It has taken
including Globalgap.
several months to gather all the necessary knowledge for the Baygap training programs,” he notes. For example, farmers learn how to use crop pro-
growers. _ E
Video bit.ly/baygapvideo
Learn more about Bayer CropScience and GlobalGAP’s joint efforts to foster better agricultural practice.
“For me, Baygap is a project that helps farmers prepare for a ‘visa’, so that they can export their pro-
Want to learn more about our partnership approach? Then visit us at Fruit Logistica, Hall 1.2, booth B-20! Bayer Crop Science #FoodChainPartnership
BCSI-FCP-FL8-001-17_FL18_AZ_1_2pl_171x127mm_241117.indd 1
p.134-135.indd 135
Bayer4Crops #FoodChainPartnership
24.11.17 14:05 january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
135
05/12/2017 14:40
features
report —Poland
Great year for Grojec warsaw—With a dynamic increase in sales and a rise in brand recognition, 2017 was a fine year for Poland’s Apples from Grojec campaign. by Carl Collen
C under
ertified apples from the
enjoyed a successful commercial season with retailers
called Yabu and some other new
Grojec county of Poland
such as Lidl, Kaufland and Makro Cash & Carry. Also,
products such as apple chips,” he
have
registered
today I can say that we are negotiating a cooperation
continues. “Through participation
been
Geographical
with another retailer in Poland. We also noted contin-
at Fruit Logistica and other events
Indication (pgi) since 2011, cover-
Protected
uous growth in Apples from Grojec brand recognition.
we want to increase the visibility of
ing 27 main varieties such as Gala,
Overall, we saw a dynamic increase in sales through our
our brand,” Majewski adds. We are
Golden Delicious and Redjonap-
cooperation with retailers. So yes, it has been a good
working to ensure our product stan-
rice. Boasting unique soil condi-
year for us!” This is a good time to be marketing apples, accord-
ments of the European Union.
characteristics such as having an
ing to Majewski, with people wanting to buy into fresh,
Additionally, we are looking into
average 5 per cent higher acidity
healthy products, while being willing to pay for quali-
organic farming. We are cooperating
than the same varieties from other
ty. “I’m glad that clients want to buy fresh and healthy
with new retailers in 2018, both in
regions. The Apples from Grojec
products,” he confirms. “We want to eat fresh, stay
Poland and other countries – Apples
project is aiming to get the mes-
healthy and fit, and we want to buy premium products
from Grojec are attractive to West-
sage out to retailers and consum-
of the highest quality. The consumer knows that our
ern Europe, and in Italy for example
ers alike that its apples are special,
apples have the highest quality based on pgi.”
I would like to cooperate with the
and, according to one industry leader, it seems to be working.
136
dards are higher than the require-
tions and climate, the apples offer
This year should be one of continued growth, Majew-
market.” _ E
ski outlines, as the Apples from Grojec campaign looks
“With all awareness I can say, 2017
to continue to drive sales and increase cooperation with
belonged to Apples from Grojec!”
retailers, all while celebrating 500 years of production
says Maciej Majewski of FreshM-
in the region.
azovia, who represents the Apples
“We are also going to market natural, cold-pressed
from Grojec campaign. “We have
juice from Apples from Grojec, a natural energy drink
TOP—The Apples from Grojec PGI covers
a total of 27 varieties
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.136.indd 136
05/12/2017 13:48
Untitled-1 1
05/12/2017 13:10
features
report —Poland
Polish operation keeps shining poznan—The Spanish group now sells
November, attended by the man-
Polska covers a 32,000m2 site hous-
agement boards of Anecoop Group
ing two 2,400m2 air conditioned
and Anecoop Polska, as well as the
warehouses, 800m2 of offices and
economic and commercial chief
900m2 of coldstores.
counsellor of the Spanish Embas-
Alejandro Monzón, president of
sy in Warsaw, Pablo Conde Diez del
the Anecoop Group, said: “Poland is
Corral. At the event, Darek Wysocki,
still a growing market with excel-
director general of Anecoop Polska,
lent potential. The new facility will
highlighted the company’s strong
enable us to provide an even better
more than 40,000 tonnes of exported fruit,
growth trajectory since entering the
service to both our customers and
vegetables and wines through its Polish
market almost 20 years ago.
our cooperative members.” _ E
distribution platform.
“We are happy with the results obtained in recent campaigns and our forecasts for the current year
by Maura Maxwell
are optimistic,” he said. “Throughout the last decade we have been increasing our activity and our
A
necoop Polska has just completed a €1m
workforce, which currently consists
expansion of its distribution platform in
of 80 employees in the offices and
Poznan, doubling capacity with the con-
warehouse.”
struction of a new 2.400m warehouse with a state-
Anecoop first entered the Polish
of-the-art management system. The division saw its
market in 1998 with the establish-
turnover grow 10 per cent in 2016/17 on the back of a 6
ment of Agricomerz, now known as
per cent increase during the previous campaign and its
Anecoop Polska, as part of a wider
annual sales now exceeds 40,000 tonnes.
strategy to reinforce its presence
ABOVE—The inauguration ceremony for
in eastern Europe. Today, Anecoop
the new distribution platform
2
The group held an inauguration ceremony in
p.138-139.indd 138
11/12/2017 11:48
features
REPORT —Poland
P Cold
weather, hot prospects
olish fresh produce cooperative Rajpol was one of the many European fresh
produce groups affected by the plummeting temperatures in April last year, a challenge that it met head on, according to the group’s Dominik Wozniak. Rajpol, which offers high-quality apples, pears, cherries, blueberries and plums, all of which have been produced
warsaw—Despite the cold weather that swept across much of Europe last spring,
in accordance with standards like Globalgap, brc, tnc and IP certification, saw its volumes hit but still had enough fruit to go around.
Rajpol was able to fulfil
“In 2017 we faced yet anoth-
its programmes while
er challenge in terms of the spring frosts that we saw across Poland,
Despite volumes being hit by the cold weather,
and indeed across much of Europe,”
Rajpol still had enough to attract admiring glances
explains Wozniak. “Fortunately at
from potential new clients. “In a crowded market place,
our cooperative we lost only 25 per
it is the quality of the fruit that is key to customers,”
cent of our volumes. The fruit left in
Wozniak notes. “Even with 25 per cent less crop there is
our orchards and in coldstorage is in
still a place for new clients, and we noticed in autumn
RIGHT—Dominik Wozniak says Rajpol
good condition, and offers enough
2017 some interesting requests. We have started devel-
attracted new business in 2017
volume for our clients.”
oping these cooperations.” _ E
attracting new business. by Carl Collen
Rajpol Trade is a company that has been established by growers with the aim of understanding your requirements We offer 40,000 tonnes of fruit directly from our farms to your customers’ tables High quality apples, pears, cherries, blueberries and plums, produced in accordance with GlobalGAP, BRC, TNC and IP certification. We introduced organic apples to our selection in 2017, and will increase these volumes in the coming years.
Apples from Grójec Rajpol Trade Sp z.o.o.
Wólka Łeçzeszycka 16, 05-622 Belsk Duży tel: (+48) 48 66 11 583 • fax: (+48) 48 66 11 383 • e-mail: rajpol@rajpol.com.pl • www.rajpol-trade.com.pl january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.138-139.indd 139
139
11/12/2017 11:48
fEaTuREs
REPORT —Greece
ing an increased interest for new plantations, currently planted on 1,000 ha; Crimson grapes are fore-
G
reece, the second-largest
cast to be down 20 per cent for the
producer of table grapes
current year.
in the European Union,
“Moreover, a greater focus is
is set to see an increase in pro-
now being placed on diversifying
duction and exports of the fruit
Greece’s grape offer to extend the
during its 2017/18 campaign.
marketing season into October and
According to a uSDa Foreign Agri-
November,” the report continued.
cultural Service’s Gain study, citing
“Other varieties cultivated include
industry experts, this year’s crop
the table grapes Prime, Superior,
is forecast to come in at 320,000
Flame and Cardinal.”
tonnes, up from the 280,710 tonnes
Exports, meanwhile, are fore-
recorded in 2016/17 and even higher
cast to grow to 90,000 tonnes from
than the 311,048 tonnes seen two
the 78,667 tonnes shipped in 2016/17.
years ago.
The EU took on the majority of
There are some 17,000ha planted
Greece’s grape exports in 2016/17, a
with table grapes in Greece, a figure
share of nearly 97 per cent, led by
that has remained steady for the
Germany (22,738 tonnes), the UK
Greece is set to recover after a low-volume
past few years, and fruit quality is
(13,808 tonnes) and Romania, which
campaign last year, with a greater emphasis
generally expected to be good.
boosted its imports 49 per cent to
being placed on varieties to extend the
“Thompson Seedless and Victo-
7,680 tonnes. _ E
ria are the leading table grape vari-
140
Greek grapes table new offer
eties grown in Greece,” the uSDa
ABOVE—Greek grape volumes are
stated. “Crimson Seedless is show-
expected to bounce back
CoRinth—Production of table grapes in
season. by Tom Joyce
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.140-141.indd 140
08/12/2017 14:46
features
REPORT —Greece LEFT—Nikos
Proto invests in new facilities thessaloniki—Only a year on since the
Pardalis and George Kallitsis talk trade at Asia Fruit Logistica
in Italian production have created a
of the worst seasons for Greek cher-
gap on the kiwifruit market.”
ries in terms of quantities and qual-
construction of a new packhouse dedicated
Proto remains the biggest kiwi-
ity. However, thanks to our new
fruit supplier in Greece, sending to
facilities, techniques and machinery,
to cherries, Proto has announced its
customers in Europe, India, Indo-
we managed to overcome all the qual-
investment in a new packhouse for its
nesia, China, Malaysia and Canada.
ity issues in order to deliver only the
The company’s volumes have risen
best Greek cherries. Our staff are now
by 2,000 tonnes over the past year to
more experienced, allowing them to
15,000 tonnes, accounting for around
take even greater advantage of the
8 per cent of total Greek production.
cutting-edge technology available.”
growing kiwifruit volumes. by Tom Joyce
The increase has persuaded the
As for grapes, Proto has equally
company to expand its facilities with
made big steps. The company han-
he 2017/18 kiwifruit season is likely to be
a new packhouse for kiwifruit. This
dled 600 tonnes of Crimson and
unique, according to Nikos Pardalis, quality
comes just a year after its invest-
Thomson last season, while expand-
assurance manager at Greek exporter Proto-
ment in a new packhouse dedicated
ing its farms with new varieties. Over
fanousi Fruits, better known as Proto. “This season has
to cherries. “For 2018, we are also look-
the next three years, according to Par-
been shaped by factors that rarely occur simultaneously,”
ing to increase our cherry volumes,
dalis, Proto aims to increase the quan-
he says. “While Spanish and French volumes are around
surpassing last season’s 4,000 tonnes,”
tity of grapes that the company
normal, the slight rise in Greece and the significant drop
says Pardalis. “Last season was one
handles. _ E
T
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.140-141.indd 141
141
08/12/2017 14:46
features
report —UAE
sells has expanded significantly in the last 18 months, and this marks a refreshing change from its tradi-
D
ubai-based retailer Kib-
tional wholesale market model.
Kibsons explores home deliveries
sons International last
“By listening to our home deliv-
year launched a new
ery customers we can develop and
home delivery service for the uae
tailor our range to suit their specific
market, as it sought to respond to
individual needs,” says Prokopiak.
International discusses the Dubai-based
the evolving needs of local con-
“Every customer has their own
trader’s efforts to offer a home delivery
sumers. “E-commerce has proven
favourite products and preferences,
to be a good opportunity for us and
so variety is key. By variety I mean
service in the uae market, as the company
is a channel that we are looking
variety in product sizes, product
to expand,” says David Prokopiak,
varieties, packaging sizes, ripeness
head of airfreight procurement
levels, tastes, origins, price ranges
at Kibsons. “The idea was to get
and our overall product basket. It’s
as close to the consumer as possi-
a lot to juggle from a procurement
ble, in a similar way to which retail-
perspective, but it’s very rewarding
and our customer service team is kept very busy.” This
ers have been trying to get closer to
to experiment with new products,
strengthened communication has given a new perspec-
growers.”
watch them succeed and constantly
tive to Kibsons, which is primarily a wholesaler and in
improve and streamline our prod-
the past has had limited and very slow access to direct
uct portfolio.”
consumer feedback. “In a multicultural society such
Kibsons’ strategy with respect to product offerings is now no longer
dubai—David Prokopiak of Kibsons
looks to get closer to consumers. by Tom Joyce
fully dependent on the procure-
The volume of feedback received
as Dubai, consumer perceptions, preferences, buying
ment decisions of supermarkets
from customers is a new yet refresh-
habits and tastes vary widely and we have to under-
and the wholesale market. The com-
ing challenge. “Customers waste no
stand these in detail to offer a truly comprehensive ser-
pany has much more freedom and
time in giving us their feedback
vice,” says Prokopiak. “Our direct feedback is now fast
flexibility to customise the prod-
and this is amazing for us,” reveals
and specific, which helps us make swift and informed
uct range that it offers to its online
Prokopiak. “We are highly reactive
decisions that add real value to Kibsons as a business
customers. As a result, the range of
in dealing with any compliments,
and to the online shopping experience of our different
products that Kibsons stocks and
general feedback and complaints,
customers.” Kibsons is also excited about sharing this new-found and direct feedback with its suppliers to add real value and build stronger relationships. “Their products literally go direct from farm to table and our suppliers often have detailed feedback on taste, quality, new products, packaging and consumer acceptance within 48 hours of their shipments landing,” says Prokopiak. “This helps both parties to optimise internal quality and traceability systems, as we can both react swiftly to any issues and trace them back to source instantaneously.” Retail consumers in the uae are becoming increasingly sensitive to price changes and are always searching for value-for-money propositions, and Kibsons’ position in the market as a wholesaler, with longstanding supplier relationships developed over more than 35 years, helps it to meet its online customer expectations. “Retail customers don’t like sudden spikes when there is undersupply, but they do really love price reductions when there is oversupply,” says Prokopiak. “Overall, customers react well to the wholesale price advantage that Kibsons can offer and they see considerable added value relative to shopping at other supermarkets in the uae.” _ E
LEFT—David Prokopiak, head of airfreight procurement at
Dubai-based Kibsons International
142
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.142-146.indd 142
05/12/2017 14:40
features
report —Israel
Israel shows its innovative side TeL aViV—Israeli companies will be well represented at this year’s Fruit Logistica exhibition in Berlin, where they will display innovations in varietal developments and pre- and post-harvest technologies. by Gerry Kelman
I
srael is renowned for its innovations in the agri-
piCkapp
culture sector, with Fruit Logistica providing
For producers today, costs
the ideal occasion to present them to the entire
are constantly increas-
industry at once. As usual, the country will be well rep-
ing, while prices paid
resented at the Berlin fair, with exhibitors from through-
to
out the supply chain, including producers, exporters, seed
the same, at best. At
firms and technology companies.
the same time, retailers
growers
and
remain
consum-
ers are setting higher thresholds for produce quality and traceability. Motivated by this dismal outlook, a group of Israeli vegetable growers founded Pointer Intelligent Agri-Systems, developing PickApp. PickApp is a smartphone, cloud-
tested and successfully implemented
based application that delivers work-
with a variety of crops, including veg-
er-uploaded real-time data without
etables, apples, cherries, pears, grapes,
the need for management interven-
strawberries, citrus and dates.
tion or any extra upload costs. The
Customer feedback indicates that
toMateCh
crew scans barcode stickers during
rational use of PickApp and its data
TomaTech, which was founded in 2002, has developed a
the regular work procedures, and
will result in a sharp reduction of
proprietary portfolio of mini-cluster, cluster and specialty
from that point on the system fully
labour costs. It is hoped that Pick-
tomatoes, now sold in over 20 countries. From its estab-
monitors the produce, its quali-
App’s exposure at Fruit Logistica will
lishment, TomaTech has aimed to bring back the flavour
ty and traceability. Easily used by
enhance contacts with potential dis-
to tomatoes, without compromising productivity and
workers of different backgrounds
tributors who are actively involved in
quality traits such as color, shelf life, firmness and shape
and cultures, PickApp has been
the agri input market.
and, in recent years, has succeeded in breaking the neg-
»
ative correlation between flavour, shelf life and fruit size. At Fruit Logistica, TomaTech - in collaboration with four world-leading produce companies, Mastronardi Produce (Canada), Stoffels (Belgium) La-Palma (Spain) and Perfection Fresh (Australia) - will introduce Toma’Muse. The variety has a unique strawberry-like shape, rich burgundy colour, distinct texture and outstanding flavour. The dense, fleshy texture holds in the juices, making it perfect for slicing, cooking or quartering, while its small size makes it perfect for snacking. TomaTech owns the variety while the producers own and market the Toma’Muse brand in their respective markets, a distinctive “go to market” strategy.
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.142-146.indd 143
143
05/12/2017 14:40
features
Croptimal Croptimal’s solution is based on the concept of bringing the laboratory to the field. Croptimal offers a unique service for performing real-time and accurate tests on plant tissues, soils and water. This novel and innovative technological solution will reduce time-to-analysis from 10 days to 10 minutes, dramatically changing the prevailing agricultural testing methodology. Croptimal’s mobile laboratory is equipped with integrated multi-spectral spectroscopy and other physical measurement technologies, for a full range of material analysis of nutrients and contaminates. This new hybrid technological approach, coupled with automated sample collection and preparation, addresses the crucial need in the agricultural environment for high accuracy and fast measurement of macro-elements and
Hadiklaim
Mehadrin
micro-elements in their various forms. The test results,
Dates are 100 per cent natural and
Mehadrin is currently Israel’s largest
fed into a cloud-based data repository and autonomous-
full of nutritional benefits, and con-
exporter of fresh fruit and vegeta-
ly processed, provide immediate recommendations to
sumers are learning to appreciate
bles. The company is a grower-based
the farmer, leading to improved crop yield, lower costs
this and to introduce them to their
organisation, with vertically inte-
and higher sustainability.
diets. Hadiklaim is Israel’s largest
grated management from field to
producer and exporter of dates with
shelf. Due to the integrated manage-
close to a 50 per cent share of the
ment system, Mehadrin operates and
export market. Despite offering a fur-
controls chemical use and residue
ther eight kinds of date, the Medjoul
levels, which enables it to do business
variety remains the dominant variety
with retailers in those countries that
at Hadiklaim, which exploits Israel’s
are very sensitive to this issue.
unique weather conditions to grow produce of the highest quality.
In addition to favourably competing in western Europe and North
Founded in 1982, Hadiklaim Date
America, Mehadrin’s citrus is expe-
Grower’s Cooperative brings together
riencing significant successes in
some of the world’s leading produc-
East Asian markets including Japan,
ers of top-quality dates. Hadiklaim is
Korea and China. At the beginning
owned by its growers, and the coop-
of November, a full shipload of both
erative consolidates the activities of
Sweetie and Red Grapefruit left the
Israel’s largest and most advanced
port of Ashdod for Japan and Korea.
Galilee Export
date producers, including quality con-
Mehadrin is well placed in these
As it does every year, Galilee Export, the second largest
trol, administration, marketing, sales
countries vis-à-vis its competitors
exporter of fresh produce in Israel, will be welcoming
and export activities.
and ensures that the produce sent
visitors to its booth at Fruit Logistica. The company’s
At Fruit Logistica, Hadiklaim’s
is of the highest quality. Mehadrin is
main focus this year will be on its organic fruit, citrus
main innovation will be its new pack-
now shipping significant quantities
and vegetables. Organic citrus, avocados and sweet pep-
aging, in two sizes of 5kg and 600g
of Sweetie to China, specially select-
pers will enrich the product range on offer from Galilee
for its new line of Oriental dates –
ed and graded as per the demands of
Export, which boasts a total volume of 2,000 tonnes of
Halawi, Zahidi, Hadrawi, Deri and
its Chinese buyers.
organic fresh produce.
Amery. Other varieties, including
Other innovations at Galilee including the installa-
»
Medjoul, can be packed in
tion of the latest sorting equipment by the company’s
sizes ranging from
pomegranate growers, ensuring the highest quality levels.
200g to 5kg.
This season, the company will be the biggest exporter of pomegranates from Israel with a total volume about 6,500 tonnes. Galilee is also increasing its volume of Medjoul dates by attracting new growers. The company has created a new Medjoul brand – ‘Queen of Sheba’ - to promote the highest quality Medjoul dates from the Arava region.
144
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.142-146.indd 144
05/12/2017 14:40
Appetizing color & shape
Lasting shelf life
Distinct sweet taste
Easy to peel
Remarkably juicy
Long season
Very few seeds
www.orrijaf fa.com Orri Jaffa.indd 1
13/03/2017 15:23
features
Origene Seeds
Gardians, focused on innovative
Origene Seeds is a privately owned
e-commerce solutions, will primarily
company whose breeding activities
be aimed at the younger generation,
were, until recently, focused entirely
the Millennials.
on curcubits. Over the past year, the
A very professional catalogue has
company has embarked on varietal
been prepared with a range of ‘Grow
development activities in both toma-
Your Own’ products, new products
toes and sweet peppers.
Stepac offers retail solutions
being introduced every season with
Bulk modified atmosphere packaging specialist Stepac
For melons, breeding work is in
a ‘mail your plants’ programme. The
has launched a new line of fresh produce packaging
all segments – Cantaloupe, Charan-
young plants are packed in special
solutions designed with retailers in mind. The group,
tais, Galia, Yellow Canary, Harper
high-tech packaging, which keeps the
a wholly owned subsidiary of UK-based Johnson
and Ananas. Whereas globally, melon
plants fresh without extra care.
Matthey, has unveiled its Xgo line of products, which includes a lidding film, preformed bag, flow pack
breeding has never fully succeed-
and standing pouch.
ed in consistently combining the
Lugo
traits of aroma and taste with those
Lugo is a company specialising in
of extended shelf life that will facili-
the development and production
advanced Xtend modified atmosphere/modified
tate prolonged shipping periods, Ori-
of advanced units for sorting and
humidity (MA/MH) technology and packaging design
gene believes that it has done just
grading fresh fruit and vegetables.
to help both retailers and international food brands
that with varieties such as Glory and
The company’s technological devel-
to address growing consumer demands for premium
Justin.
“We’re building on the latest developments in
opments are based on advanced
quality packaged produce,” says Johnson Matthey
In July 2017, Origene acquired
software for visual identification,
technical development manager Gary Ward.
Catom Seeds, based at Ein Tamar
together with high-quality hardware
near the Dead Sea, with a view to
components enabling speedy and
demonstrated the retail value of Xgo packaging for
expanding its product line. The name
accurate sorting as per parameters
whole fruits, vegetables and fresh herbs, as well as
Catom is Hebrew for ‘orange’ so the
of colour, size and external damage.
fresh-cut salads. “Retailers can drive sales through
focus has been on orange-fleshed
Lugo units are functioning in leading
innovation by capitalising on the latest developments
varieties, introduced commercially
packhouses worldwide and are cus-
in MA/MH technology to provide extended shelf life,
as the Pearlina line, unique in their
tom-built according to the specific
reduce waste and enhance the consumer experience,”
external pearl colour.
demands of the customer and the
adds Ward. “Our retail packaging solutions rev-up
layout of the individual working area.
customer demand by displaying fresher, more
Hishtil
At Fruit Logistica 2018, Lugo will
According to the group, case studies have
appealing produce in convenient, attractive easy to identify, easy to handle packaging.”
Hishtil is a family-owned company
launch its innovative equipment for
and was the first dedicated plant
pre-grading dates. A world first,
nursery in Israel where it is still the
Lugo’s system will introduce pre-
which offers customised solutions for a wide range
biggest of its kind. At Fruit Logistica
grading of dates – by way of a propri-
of produce packed in either pet or PP trays, and
2018, in cooperation with Dutch agro
etary camera unit – according to their
Xgo Preformed Bags, which are high-performance,
and food specialist Viscon Group, a
internal moisture, as well as external
pre-formed flexible packaging solutions for manual
new project will be launched. The
features such as colour and shape. _ E
packing, significantly extending shelf life of both
The new solutions include the Xgo Lidding Film,
whole and fresh-cut fruit and vegetables. Xgo Flow Pack offers roll stock for automated retail packing processes, while the Xgo Standing Pouch is engineered to provide extended shelf life in a convenient, attractive ‘grab-and-go’ retail packaging format.
146
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.142-146.indd 146
05/12/2017 14:40
FRUIT LOGISTICA Visit us: Hall 6.2 / Both A.03 7|8|9| February 2018, Berlin
Global Procurement 24/7 Logistical Services Customized Planning
Network of Competency and Experience Comprehensive Quality Management
GROWING PASSION Along with an increasing passion and innovational drive, we continue our mission to provide you and your clients with the best service possible. A commitment which will continue to bear fruit in the future. For more information and contacts please go to www.cobana.com
FEATURES
REPORT —Turkey
Özler Ziraat sets the standard
T
urkish
grower-exporter
Özler Ziraat has earned a Grasp (Globalgap Risk
Assessment on Social Practice) certificate for its efforts on ethical and social standards for the company’s farm workers. “This is not an easy thing to achieve on farms in Turkey, so we are very happy,” says marketing manager Ayşe Özler. “We may be the only Turkish citrus producer with this certification. All the European
adana—The Turkish
retailers are currently pushing their
grower-exporter continues
suppliers to acquire Grasp.”
to reach for higher quality standards, investing in
Although the company suffered a disappointing
pomegranates is increasing across
lemon campaign in Asia, with low volumes translating
the world, which has persuaded the
into higher prices than the South African competition, the
new sorting machinery for
company to invest in new machin-
potential in Asian markets like Hong Kong, Singapore and
pomegranates and gaining
ery to size and sort the fruit with
Malaysia remains good, according to Özler. “This was our
the goal of uniformity. “Turkey is
first disappointing lemon campaign in Asia for the last ten
known for its manual sorting of
years,” she says. “Asia has become a big buyer of Turkish
pomegranates, but as demand con-
lemons and there are good possibilities on the market, not
tinues to increase, we need to be
just for lemons, but also for figs and oranges. India is still a
able to compete with the US and
virgin market for Turkish oranges, and will be a huge
ABOVE—Pictured (l-r) in Hong Kong:
Israel, where sorting is always done
market for us to discover. They import oranges from
Özler Ziraat’s Ayşe and Mehmet Özler
by machine,” says Özler. “We must
Egypt, so why not Turkey?” _ E
the Grasp certification. by Tom Joyce
148
look to produce the highest quality possible.”
According to Özler, demand for
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.148.indd 148
06/12/2017 11:57
ORGANISED BY
From seed to fork.
Europe’s networking and information platform for the entire tomato sector
EY N O M SAVEegate fees:
Del *: €450 e t a r bird 550 € Early : e t a al r Norm e subject to VAT 18 ar Prices d until 1.5.20 •vali
• Focus on specific strategies for success in the tomato category • One day conference with evening get-together and study tour • Sponsoring opportunities to suit all budgets • Network with some 200 top players from the entire supply chain
fruchthandel.de/tomatoforum
ETF 2018 A4 filler.indd 1
04/09/2017 11:26
features
report —Serbia
“Without branding, customers and consumers will not recognise the value of your product or business” LEFT—Julka Toksić talks to regional
broadcasters during Fruitnet Forum South-East Europe in Belgrade
customers and consumers will not recognise the value of your product or advantages of your business. The aim of
Branding specialist branches out
AgroBrand is to make a significant effort to help clients be recognisable and stand out from the crowd.” Toskić took part in Fruitnet Forum South-East Europe, the annual conference and networking event for the region’s fruit and vegetable sector, which took place in Belgrade on 21-22 November. There, she outlined some of the
belgrade—Former Delta Agrar marketing director Julka
opportunities and challenges that lie ahead for fresh pro-
Toskić has set up a new agency in order to work more
duce exporters in south-east Europe, charting the prog-
closely with fruit and vegetable brands.
ress made by exporters during the past few years as they look to capitalise on Russia’s EU ban and, more generally, adopt the right commercial strategies to secure their place
by Mike Knowles
in the international marketplace. In particular, she cautioned against getting too carried away with an apparently open Russian market, noting
O
150
ne of south-east Europe’s
an agricultural education and a lot
that while apples are the most popular fruit in Russia
leading
produce
of experience in that field,” she tells
with a 25 per cent market share, the country is also trying
marketing specialists has
eurofruit. “Only in that way can
hard to reduce its dependency on imports. At the same
established a new agency to develop
you be in position to help agricultur-
time, Russian consumers are finding it harder and harder
marketing projects and offer strate-
al companies and producers and to
to afford certain premium varieties. “Apples will became
gic consultancy to brands in the busi-
enhance their business or products
a luxury fruit [in Russia] after 1 March,” she predicted.
ness. Julka Toskić set up AgroBrand
and bring them more profit.”
“Buying power is declining, and there is strong support for
fresh
at the start of September and plans
Having worked closely with some
to draw on her more than 15 years’
of the biggest brands in produce,
domestic apples nationally.” Serbia’s apple industry has boomed in the past decade.
industry experience, including seven
including major apple trademarks
Last year, the country’s planted area for the fruit was
years as marketing director at Ser-
like Pink Lady, Evelina, Kiku and
25,000ha, producing around 390,000 tonnes. With modern
bia’s largest horticultural exporter
Modí, Toskić also feels that branding
technologies and new orchards growing varieties like Gala
Delta Agrar.
is essential and very much the focal
and Braeburn, rather than the more traditional Idared,
She also expects the startup to
point around which fresh produce
Toskić said the country could potentially be more expan-
offer something very different to
marketing must revolve. “If you ask
sive in terms of its market outlook. To reduce their reli-
existing agencies in Serbia. “If you
me why AgroBrand was chosen as
ance on Russia, therefore, exporters ought to look more
wish to be involved in marketing in
the agency name, it is simply because
closely at how to access other markets, she advised. “The
agriculture, or to manage projects
I believe that everything is branding,”
UK, for example, is the third-biggest apple importer in the
or be a consultant, you must have
she comments. “Without branding,
world. It offers an attractive price per tonne.” _ E
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.150.indd 150
05/12/2017 14:41
FRUITNET EVENTS 2018
Official Cooperation Partner
Fruitnet Media International specialises in creating high quality, content rich, commercial networking conferences for the fresh produce industry held around the globe. These live events provide the best arena to connect with present and future clients, discover new trade opportunities and to shape the future of your business.
26-27 April 2018 Mumbai freshproduceindia.com
19-21 March 2018 Ro erdam berrycongress.com
14-16 May 2018 Shanghai fpf-china.com
20-21 September 2018 DĂźsseldorf fruchthandel.de/dogk
14-15 June 2018 DĂźsseldorf fruchthandel.de/tomatoforum
07-08 June 2018 Hamburg fruchthandel.de/european-convenience-forum
October 2018 United Kingdom fpjlive.com
04 September 2018 Hong Kong asiafruitcongress.com
November 2018 Belgrade fruitnetforumsee.com
For more information contact events team: +44 20 7501 3725 | events@fruinet.com
Part of Fruitnet Media International 132 Wandsworth Road, London SW8 2LB, United Kingdom. Tel +44 20 7501 3700 | Fax + 44 20 7501 0306 | fruitnet.com
Events Filler 2018.indd 1
05/12/2017 13:14
features
report —UK
L
ess than a third of food
UK labour woes deepen
industry labour providers have been able to supply
all their clients’ labour requirements in the last three months,
london—British fresh produce companies are facing severe worker shortages for the upcoming year as labour providers step up warnings.
alarming new research shows. According to the Association of
by Michael Barker
Labour Providers (alp), of the 70 per cent of providers to the agriculture, food manufacturing and distribu-
to increase wage rates to attract
tion sectors unable to meet all their
workers, and 77 per cent of provid-
representatives in specialist multi-stakeholder groups. It says this must result in the publication of official
clients’ labour needs, 37 per cent
ers having to invest more money
food supply chain skills and labour data, including tem-
were short by up to 10 per cent, 17
and resources into sourcing work-
porary, seasonal and agency workers, in order that all
per cent by 10-20 per cent and 16 per
ers, thereby increasing the cost of
parties are working from one agreed set of statistics
cent by over 20 per cent.
labour supply.
and to inform the current work of the Migration Advi-
Some 36 per cent of labour pro-
alp chief executive David Camp
viders do not expect to be able to
said: “These results confirm that
It also wants to see a model Seasonal Agricultural
source and supply sufficient work-
the warning issued in the April 2017
Workers’ Permit Based Quota Scheme designed and
ers for the Christmas peak. The
Environmental, Food and Rural
ready to be launched once the political button is
situation represents a significant
Affairs Committee Report ‘Feed-
pressed. And for every business in the food supply
decline on the same period a year
ing the nation: labour constraints’
chain to be supported with practical measures to pro-
ago, with 50 per cent of labour pro-
has come to pass in that ‘the cur-
mote the UK and food sector and in sourcing and
viders reporting that labour supply
rent problem is in danger of becom-
retaining a competent and reliable workforce. _ E
is down, 25 per cent reporting an
ing a crisis if urgent measures are
increase and 25 per cent no change.
not taken to fill the gaps in labour
Over three in five (61 per cent)
supply.’ No urgent measures have
state that the quality of workers
been taken, the crisis has arrived
is worse and only two per cent say
and what’s more, all the indicators
that it is better.
are that 2018 will be worse.”
There is also further evidence
alp has called on Defra to be
that the current tight labour supply
a leader and a champion for the
is costing industry more money,
whole UK food supply chain and
with 56 per cent of providers report-
specifically for the Defra Access to
ing that their clients have had
Labour team to work with industry
sory Committee.
Some 36 per cent of labour providers do not expect to be able to source and supply sufficient workers for the Christmas peak in the UK LEFT—British
fresh produce companies rely on seasonal labour, primarily from Eastern Europe
152
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.152-153.indd 152
08/12/2017 15:01
features
REPORT —Botanicoir
Botanicoir bags a win london—A new growbag designed specifically for strawberry crops is helping growers increase yield and boost quality. by Nina Pullman
G
rowing media specialist
the bag, they are in the best environ-
Botanicoir has launched a
ment to promote growth.
new growbag for the soft-
“The air-filled porosity of the
fruit industry with improved drain-
new bags promotes free drainage,
age and rapid hydration.
rapid hydration and control of mois-
“We’ve created an innovative new
ture in the bag. It’s much more for-
mix tailored to strawberry crops, that
giving. You can never overwater it.
nobody has made before – an indus-
It promotes quick plant establish-
try first,” says managing director
ment, and being full of lignin, it
Kalum Balasuriya.
breaks down slowly.”
“Precision Plus Ultra growbags
Sandy Booth, managing director
are capable of rapid hydration, have
of the New Forest Fruit Company,
optimum air-filled porosity and a
produces 3,000 tonnes of strawber-
superior structure, offering excel-
ries annually and has been trialling
lent drainage capacity and ease of
the new Botanicoir growbag. Ini-
steering.”
tially, Booth trialled one hectare of
As well as a patent for the grow-
the growbags on the crops in the
bag itself, Botanicoir has recently
field, glasshouses and in polytun-
secured a patent for the production
nels. “The new growbags generate
process, a unique method of combin-
a higher fruit quality and we have
ing three different types of particle.
seen yields increase,” he says.
“This gives the mix a more open
“They have better drainage and
structure and better aeration, which
higher air-filled porosity due to the
makes it perfect for use in soft-fruit
particles in the substrate which
crops,” explains Balasuriya. “We also
encourages uniform rooting and
wash and buffer our coir to a very
produces healthier plants.”
high standard, so that when the
Balasuriya adds: “We are thrilled
young plants are transplanted into
to have secured the patent for Precision Plus Ultra. Innovation is at the heart of what we do, and our Precision Plus Ultra bag is the result of years of hard work, grower trials and feedback and development. By always striving for better results, we have achieved something that is truly unique to the soft fruit growing industry.” _ E
LEFT—Kalum Balasuriya
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.152-153.indd 153
153
08/12/2017 15:01
features
report —UK
BOTTOM—Clive and Ross Goatham of AC Goatham & Son BELOW—London Gateway receives the world’s biggest vessels
Breaking across the Channel london—The Fresh Produce Journal team rounds up some of the key news and developments from the UK fresh produce industry’s leading players. by Nina Pullman
AC Goatham buys eight new farms Kent topfruit grower AC Goatham & Son has acquired eight new farms in Medway and Swale as well as a new cold storage facility in Faversham. The business now has over 2,650 acres of orchards across Kent growing 12 varieties of apples and three
London Gateway and Halo
varieties of pears.
build for the future
“We have taken the opportunity to acquire several
Located on over 200ha of reclaimed
new sites which came onto the market [last] year and
marshland at the mouth of the
which are close to our existing farm sites,” says man-
Thames, London Gateway combines
aging director, Ross Goatham. “Over the last year, we
the UK’s largest deep-sea port with
have seen a significant interest from British consum-
a nine million sq ft logistics park, as
ers for British-grown topfruit.
well as housing what is described as
“We are continuously working with our partner
the country’s biggest railhead.
growers and customers towards providing a secure
The port receives 22 sailings a
and sustainable supply for the future. This will be
week from the world’s biggest ships
done by securing more orchard sites and over time
and handles 80 per cent of all the
replanting on new and more efficient growing sys-
UK’s imports from Latin America, as
to be operational by the start of this
tems. By 2020 we will have planted in excess of two
well as services from Australasia and
year’s Southern Hemisphere imports
million new fruit trees.”
South Africa, routes that are domi-
season, Halo will have six chill and
nated by the fresh produce trade.
three frozen chambers, as well as a
Gavin Knight, managing director of new produce business Halo, which has chosen London Gateway as its
154
“We are seeing a groundswell movement for big grower groups and cooperatives who want a representative in the UK”
range of added-value options such as ripening and grading. “There’s a lot of interest from
new home, says the business will
UK
be able to save 80-90 per cent of the
We’re close to the London markets,
multiples
and
wholesalers.
inbound logistics costs of a consign-
and a vehicle going to Spalding
ment, and will be more cost effective
costs around £350 whereas coming
than packing in Kent due to redistri-
here will be 10 per cent of that,”
bution rates that are as competitive
says Knight. Large growers from
as Spalding. At the port’s integrated
major global producer countries
logistics park, warehouse space has
are another likely customer base, he
planning permission for almost 10m
believes. “We are seeing a ground-
sq ft, with sites ranging from 1.5 mil-
swell movement for big grower
lion to the 110,000 sq ft signed for by
groups and cooperatives who want
Halo, while other tenants include
a representative in the UK, rather
service company UPS, Lidl, and
than relying on an external import-
Dixons Carphone Warehouse. Due
er,” he adds.
»
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.154-156.indd 154
05/12/2017 15:03
FL2018 Ad FA - converted to curves.indd 1
2017/12/08 16:40
features
Sixth Thanet Earth greenhouse completed Nearly a quarter of the UK’s tomatoes will be grown at Thanet Earth following completion of a sixth greenhouse. The new 7ha facility will be dedicated to growing speciality tomatoes all year round, and has already been planted with four different varieties including the Thanet Earth Piccolo variety. The greenhouse is heated by Combined Heat & Power and fitted with High Pressure Sodium growlights. While Thanet Earth now accounts for 15 per cent of UK tomato planted area, the business pointed out that its hyper-efficient growing system and 12-month harvest capability mean the percentage of UK tomatoes grown there is approaching 25 per cent. In winter, the 31ha of lit production at the Kent site will represent 75 per cent of the UK capacity of lit tomatoes. In what it claims is a UK first, Thanet Earth has also installed sodium growlights in the cucumber greenhouse it constructed in 2016. While the greenhouse produced tomatoes in the 2017 season, it is
as hard as we can to add more top-
switching to cucumber production in 2018 with the
quality home-grown volumes to
young plants assisted through the winter by sup-
the market but there’s still a huge
BELOW—Thanet Earth, the UK’s largest
plementary lighting. It is also the first UK high-
gap between the demand for Brit-
glasshouse vegetable production site
wire, light-assisted cucumber crop, according to the
ish tomatoes all year round and
company, allowing Thanet Earth to increase yields
the available supply volumes.”
sures continue to grow.
G’s explores automation
ics at the British Tomato Confer-
in lettuce
ence, robotics expert Dr Fumiya
says: “There’s an enormous uncertainty around the
Leading salad supplier G’s is
Iida
future for imported trade at the moment, and it’s
working with Cambridge Uni-
ty said agriculture is one of the
widely acknowledged that the UK has to improve its
versity to explore automation in
next steps for robotics, as tech-
self-sufficiency in food production. We’re working
lettuce harvesting as labour pres-
nology develops from repetitive
through higher-density planting that will bring forward the harvest to start as early as January. Thanet Earth managing director Des Kingsley
ABOVE—G’s says it is looking at
automating the lettuce harvest
Speaking in a session on robot-
of
Cambridge
Universi-
industrial jobs, to becoming more adaptable and with better capacity in gripping and vision. “Harvesting
is
almost
the
only non-automated process at G’s,” said Iida. “Even without Brexit the cost pressure of labour was very demanding, as a business they could see that model wouldn’t work. So they came to us for state-of-the-art robotics technology. “What we are working on in the lab is looking at different ways for robots to ‘pick and place’, such as a suction cup or robotic fingers. We are looking at this picking challenge and how it can be applied to the lettuce harvesting,” he said. _ E
156
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.154-156.indd 156
05/12/2017 14:59
Contacts UK, Pacific Produce Ltd. Robert Cullum rob@pacificproduce.co.uk
Untitled-2.indd 1
www.pacificproduce.co.uk www.lacalera.com.pe @PacificProduce
05/12/2016 10:26
features
report —Richard Hochfeld
Growth and resilience
established business with Tesco, as well as looking at new opportunities at home and abroad. “Martin has joined the company as director of business development and will be bringing with him an
borough green—It has been a strong showing for Richard
insight from his time at Tesco, both in the UK and in
Hochfeld in 2017, although the year was tinged with
South East Asia,” says Guindi. “My colleagues and I are
sadness after the passing of Jon Jones. by Carl Collen
thrilled to have him on the team at this exciting time in the industry.” remembering Jon jones 2017 ended on a sad note for the company with the passing of Jon Jones, a well-known figure in the British top-
F
resh fruit supplier Rich-
ing new customers on board, rolling
fruit industry and director at Richard Hochfeld, who died
ard Hochfeld has enjoyed
out new lines and investing in new
at the age of 62. Jones passed away in late October follow-
a positive year, with turno-
ventures.
ing a short illness.
ver to June 2016 coming in at £154m –
In 2017, the group strengthened
“I had the pleasure of knowing Jonathan for around 35
a big jump on the £119m recorded in
its team by bringing in Tesco’s former
years,” Guindi explains. “Jon was a true gentleman, funny
the prior-year period. According to
head of fresh food sourcing for Asia,
and kind. He once said to me that his job defined who he
managing director Alan Guindi, this
Martin O’Sullivan, as director of
was. He took great pride in work, especially on UK top-
success has been down to several fac-
business development, tasked with
fruit, and was passionate about his family. We are a very
tors including diversification, bring-
advancing Hochfeld’s already well-
close bunch at Richard Hochfeld and his death leaves us all shocked and saddened.” Despite this, Guindi ends on a note of resilience: “Losing Jon has hit us hard, but the success of our new varietal business Scion Fruits is a demonstration of our determination to press forward,” he adds. Brexit Guindi was firmly in the remain camp when it came to the UK’s EU referendum, and Brexit seems to be the one spot of uncertainty moving forward. “Brexit hasn’t happened yet, but the lack of clarity on what it will eventually look like is unfair on our valued European colleagues in our small company, and impacts us adversely with regards to exchange rates,” he adds. “It also makes seasonal labour harder to find. But on the positive side – er, no, wait a second, I can’t think of one!” _ E LEFT—Managing director Alan Guindi
158
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.158-159.indd 158
05/12/2017 16:15
features
REPORT —Eva Apples
Conquering the chill wollsdorf—Despite being hit by frost for the second consecutive year, Eva Apples
For the upcoming season, Eva will focus on its
lenges for Austria-based
strengths, according to Rosenzopf, namely regaining a
Eva Apples to face in
foothold in the market after two frost-hit campaigns,
2017, not least a second year of
through its established, quality brand that stands for
frosts that caused big losses and
premium apples. “Austria has the advantage of perfect
major adjustments earlier in the
weather and growing conditions,” he continues. “Our
year. However, despite these test-
climate is influenced by the Mediterranean and Alpine
ing times, Eva still came out with a
climates and our soil is partly volcanic. The combina-
slightly larger crop than in 2016 and
tions of these factors is unique in Europe and helps
the ability to serve its clients with
produce high-class fruit.”
good-sized fruit of high quality.
Eva is constantly seeking to enhance its client base,
“This was a difficult challenge
and is always on the lookout for new market oppor-
is still able to offer its
and we need to adjust to the sit-
tunities – with Asia a “very interesting opportunity”,
customers good size, colour
uation and all its consequences,”
according to Rosenzopf. “You definitely need to have
explains the group’s Roland Rosen-
the right partner and to invest time and money, and as
zopf. “We understand the extreme-
a small partner the main challenge is to find the right
ly difficult situations in all other
partners who also match your needs,” he outlines.
and high quality. by Carl Collen
p.158-159.indd 159
T
here were plenty of chal-
European
production
countries
In terms of existing markets, and despite the ongo-
this season. We now need to focus
ing surplus challenges the Russian embargo places on
on having a decent marketing
the European industry, things are positive. “There are
season, but we also have to look to
a lot of loyal Eva Apple clients in Europe, North Africa
the 2018/19 season when Eva Apples
and the Middle East who are looking forward to Eva
will once again play an essential
Apples returning with a good amount of product in
role in the premium segment.”
2018/19,” Rosenzopf adds. _ E
05/12/2017 16:15
features
report —South Africa
LEFT—This year’s
Beautiful Country, Beautiful Fruit campaign material
he South African fruit
retailers. It has achieved impressive
industry has launched its
results – with further growth to come
Beautiful Country, Beau-
– and has become the longest-stand-
tiful Fruit campaign for the 2017/18
ing country of origin campaign in UK
season, marking ten years of the pro-
fresh produce.”
T
motion in the UK.
160
This year’s stonefruit activity sees
Beautiful landmark
Hortgro, the organisation which
Hortgro working with supermarkets
london—South African fruit growers
represents South Africa’s stonefruit
to build on the growth achieved to
celebrate a decade of UK promotion, as the
and topfruit industries, began the ini-
date and highlight the taste of South
tiative in 2009 with a pilot promotion
African varieties to shoppers in-store
annual Beautiful Country, Beautiful Fruit
to develop the market for the coun-
and online during the season. The
try’s plums; rolling it out across the
promotion on South African topfruit
plum, peach, nectarine, apple and
begins in spring 2018 with a focus on
pear categories the following year.
consumer advertising and targeted
Since it launched, the campaign has
activity with retailers. Both stone-
helped develop these categories, with
fruit and topfruit will be supported
the winning school. A charity part of the project also
sales of South African stonefruit
with a ‘Win a South African Journey’
sees schools around the UK contribute to development
increasing by approximately 100 per
holiday competition, which will run
of South Africa by sending unwanted reading and text
cent in the UK’s largest four retailers
on packs of fruit and in the media;
books to schools in rural areas of the country: 48 pallets
alone between the 2009/10 and 2016/17
and also editorial features, including
of books were sent to South Africa at the end of the 2017
seasons.
recipe articles, on South African fruit.
season. Now in its seventh year, the project is supported
“The Beautiful Country, Beautiful
Hortgro’s two generic initia-
with donations of time and resources by freight com-
Fruit campaign reaches a significant
tives, Help a South African School
panies Maersk and Damco, delivery service and couri-
milestone this season,” says Jacques
and the Young South African Chef
er Myhermes and the South African High Commission.
du Preez, general manager: trade &
of the Year competition, will also
The South African Young Chef of the Year competi-
markets at Hortgro. “We launched
be running. The schools project
tion, which has been running since 2014, asks young
this integrated promotional push
invites teachers and school children
chefs from around the UK to enter their original menus
with the purpose of engaging stake-
around the UK to find out about
using South African ingredients and methods. The win-
holders throughout the supply chain
South African fruit farming and
ning chef will travel to South African capital Cape Town
to grow the market together to ben-
food and submit a collage showing
to train with chef Luke Dale-Roberts at renowned res-
efit growers, the supply chain and
their learnings, with a cash prize for
taurant The Test Kitchen. _ E
campaign kicks off again. by Carl Collen
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.160.indd 160
05/12/2017 15:15
Untitled-2 1
11/12/2017 12:06
features
report —South Africa
Iconic year ahead
ABOVE—Joybells grapes have been
successfully trialled in the UK
cape town—Tough climatic conditions in parts of South Africa have failed to dampen spirits and growers are looking forward to an
areas, growers packed a record
exciting 2018 export season.
volume of around 123m cartons. This was 15m more than originally forecast. Exporters say a late
by Fred Meintjes
season surge in demand, due to shortages reported in supplies from other parts of the world, resulted in
he South African table
lation years, the table grape sector has seen remarkable
‘every last carton of Valencias avail-
grape harvest is now well
change. Not only have true entrepreneurs emerged,
able being packed and shipped’. By
underway and although
rapidly increasing production to beyond 60m cartons,
all accounts, financially, it was an
the southwest regions are experi-
but the country’s varietal offering has changed dra-
extraordinary season for the citrus
encing tough conditions, the grape
matically. It is now almost entirely a seedless growing
industry. “Growers made lots of
sector will celebrate an iconic mile-
sector and in terms of new and exciting varieties, the
money,” comments one source. In
stone in 2018, as it is exactly 125
country has, during the past two decades, gained on
the longer term it also confirms the
years since the first South Afri-
its competitors.
T
The table grape sector, as well as the country’s stone-
ed. Across the country there have
on the British market. Although
fruit and apple and pear growers, have some tough
been heavy plantings reported,
progress was initially slow, sup-
months to get through due to the severe drought in
particularly in the lemon and soft
plies were only disrupted twice due
the Western Cape, which is resulting in water short-
citrus categories.
to events well beyond the control
ages. However, the situation varies greatly from area
Expanded branding for Clemen-
of Cape growers, namely the two
to area and the early grape regions in the north of the
Gold and Tango mandarins is also
World Wars which brought all ship-
country and along the Orange River are not affected.
on the cards, which will boost the
ments to a halt. During the past 20 post-deregu-
162
future growth that is to be expect-
can grapes were successfully sold
In 2017 the South African citrus industry showed the way ahead. Despite climatic problems in some
sector. There are also increased activities in China and the east
»
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.162-164.indd 162
05/12/2017 15:07
BEAUTIFUL COUNTRY BEAUTIFUL FRUIT
A Journey Through South Africa: Beautiful Country, Beautiful Fruit The South African stone fruit industry has begun its 2017/2018 campaign to support its products while they are on shelves. The campaign, which launched in 2009, aims to raise UK shoppers’ awareness of the varieties, great flavours and seasons of South African fruit - as well as the part buying it plays in developing the country. South African industry research carried out with UK consumers recently shows that great taste is the number one motivator for purchasing fruit. Activity this year will have taste as a central theme, and also includes: The opportunity to win a South African safari holiday for 4 Shopper educational initiatives – on packs, in store and online Cook South Africa! competition – inviting young chefs to learn about SA fruit and win training in the country
• • •
Help a South African School competition – teaching • UK schoolchildren about the fruit, and donating books to rural South African schools in the process Editorial features on eating and cooking with South African fruit
•
Some key facts: Sales growth of more than 100% of stone fruit in the Big 4 retailers between 2010 and 2017 Campaign starts in December with peaches, nectarines and plums, before moving on to apples and pears in spring 2018 Highlights South Africa as a high quality, ethical and innovative source of fruit, with activities taking place across the UK’s main retailers and in the media
• • •
w w w. b e a u t i f u l c o u n t r y b e a u t i f u l f r u i t . c o . u k
features
RIGHT—The plum industry is an example
of varietal innovation in action BELOW RIGHT—Phyllis Burger at the
Infruitec-Nietvoorbij centre
where the South Africans have been very active in securing better access to markets already opened up, while looking to gain entry to those markets currently closed for business. While the stonefruit and topfruit sectors have been affected by the drought over the past year and will continue to experience serious challenges in the new season, all sectors are involved in exciting cultivar and other development programmes designed to create new possibilities in future. Varietal development Over the course of the past five years, the stonefruit sector has been transformed. It now not only offer varieties from the world’s best breeding programmes, but there is every likelihood that cross-species such as pluots will play a major role in the future. The focus has been on improving the taste experience
before they are released, and some-
known plant breeder Phyllis Burger of the Agricultur-
of South African fruit, particularly
times prove to be fairly unsuccess-
al Research Council’s Infruitec-Nietvoorbij centre.
in the German market, where infor-
ful. “One must be realistic when
sati’s chief executive Willem Bestbier says his
mation and promotional activities
you look at these varieties,” says
organisation believes that competitiveness in the
are already bearing fruit.
Hex grower Leon Viljoen. “Not
world’s markets will be driven by technology. “The best
In apples and pears it is much
all will be successful. Only two or
technology is to have access to the best and most prof-
more difficult to bring forward new
three of these varieties will prob-
itable varieties. Nothing beats a home-grown success,”
varieties. Much of the focus has
ably, in the long term, prove to be
he outlines.
been on improving existing vari-
real winners.”
eties, such as Gala and Pink Lady
164
If you are a South African observer in 2018, you
sati, the table grape industry
should also look out for new branding initiatives
selections. The new pink or red-
body, says there is now a concert-
in the avocado sector. The category is now also in
fleshed varieties are also expected
ed effort to support South Afri-
a new growth phase. Multinational group Westfa-
to become more prominent in the
ca’s own breeding programme. In
lia Fruit has already introduced its Gem avocado in
country.
the aftermath of deregulation the
order to ‘deliver even greater eating pleasure to avo-
It is, however, in table grapes
country’s research base has suf-
cado lovers’. Not far away from Tzaneen in the heart
where there has been a glut of new
fered and this also had an effect
of the South African avocado business, a new brown-
varieties from a range of breed-
on table grape breeding. However,
skinned avocado is set to make it to the big time.
ing programmes, giving growers
an extensive programme to breed
Maluma is being marketed by Allesbeste Nursery in
many new options. This also pres-
new and carefully selected seedless
South Africa’s Northern Limpopo Province. ‘Alles-
ents certain dilemmas for growers,
varieties is on track and already
beste’ means ‘Everything of the Best’. Described as an
because the choice is so wide that it
showing promise. The locally bred
avocado with an immaculate appearance and aston-
is difficult to nail down your selec-
red seedless variety, Joybells, has,
ishing flavour, the owners say the texture is smooth
tion. Breeders have received crit-
according to sati, already been suc-
and ideal for any taste.
icism because some growers feel
cessfully trialed with UK super-
This year may well be a tough one for some South
that varieties are not always prop-
markets Morrisons and Marks &
African growers, but there will be plenty of exciting
erly tested under local conditions
Spencer. It was developed by well-
developments to look forward to. _ E
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.162-164.indd 164
05/12/2017 15:07
Capespan_Logistica Issue EuroFruit Ad_R2_FA_Paths.pdf
C
M
Y
CM
MY
CY
CMY
K
1
2017/12/04
10:12 AM
features
report —Pink fleshed apples
English rose versus French fancy? cape town—A new range of pink- and redfleshed apples are set to do battle, with the UK-grown Sunburst taking on a French contender called Kissabel. by Fred Meintjes
een’. “The supermarket is the first in the UK to launch the Sunburst variety of the fruit, which has been nicknamed the ‘pumpkin apple’ thanks to its orangehued skin,” explains Greg Sehringer, Waitrose apple buyer. “Bite into it and the fruit’s spooky red flesh is revealed. Grown in Kent, the tangy apple has a flavour akin to a nostalgic fruit-salad chewy sweet.” In boosting his Halloween theme, Sehringer concludes: “Our British-grown ‘pumpkin apples’ are the perfect treat for little ghouls and ghosts on Halloween. Looking just like mini pumpkins, these apples will surprise anyone on Halloween with their hidden red flesh.
L
University, at niab East Malling
Waitrose
a
Research in Kent. It was selected by
range of internally pink
Dr Iwan Labuschagne and Reinhard
apples as ‘pumkin apples’, as part of
Schomberg-Klee of Re:inc Innova-
its Halloween campaign. Real name
tion from South Africa in October
Sunburst, the apple could perhaps
2009, as well as a further indepen-
be called a true English Rose, being
dent selection by Graham Caspell at
bred as it was in Kent. Elsewhere, it
East Malling. It was also evaluated
has been announced that members
launched
in Germany, Belgium and Italy.”
“The first great-eating pink fleshed apple, Sunburst, was exclusively launched in Waitrose and by all accounts it had an excellent reception”
of Ifored, the consortium of produc-
Van Wyk says the potential of
Ifored, meanwhile, announced that it plans to pro-
ers behind a range of similarly inter-
Sunburst was identified by Wait-
duce the apples in a total of 13 countries and sell them
nally coloured apples, will expand
rose in 2014 and the retailer assisted
in markets worldwide during the next five years. New
to a number of new countries.
niab East Malling Research in plant-
red-fleshed apples with a distinctive berry flavour are
pink
ing the variety on its farm in Kent
among a trio of unique new varieties which have under-
fleshed apple, Sunburst, was exclu-
in the UK. “Graham Caspell is the
gone market trials in Europe recently. The Kissabel
sively launched in Waitrose super-
grower responsible. The apple has
range consists of Kissabel Rouge, Kissabel Jaune and
markets in the UK and by all
a yellow peel with pink flesh that
Kissabel Orange.
accounts it had an excellent recep-
shines through the peel. This gives
In this new, pink-fleshed apple category, Sunburst is
tion,” says Riaan van Wyk of Re:inc
the apple an orange/pink appear-
set to take on Kissabel in a head-to-head reminiscent of
Innovation, which along with East
ance which is completely different
the great Anglo-French battles of the past. _ E
Malling Research has been working
to other commercial apples in the
on its development. “The apple was
world.”
“The
166
ate last year, UK retailer
first
great-eating
bred by Kate Evans, currently the
Waitrose’s innovative campaign
apple breeder at Washington State
called the apple ‘perfect for Hallow-
TOP—Sunburst has already made waves in the UK as part of a
Halloween marketing campaign
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.166.indd 166
05/12/2017 15:08
features
report —Zimbabwe
A fresh future beitbridge—The departure of Robert Mugabe should mean exciting times for the Zimbabwean fruit sector, according to grower Paul Bristow. by Fred Meintjes
Z
imbabwe once had a thriving fresh fruit and vegetable sector, a sector that has just about been brought to its knees under the rule of
Robert Mugabe. However, the sudden change in leadership at the tail-end of 2017 means there is every chance of a better future for the country’s fresh produce industry. “We are indeed living in exciting times with recent political developments in our country,” says Paul Bristow, who has been growing citrus in Zimbabwe for 37 years, coin-
The sudden change in leadership at the tail-end of 2017 means that there is every chance of a better future for the industry
cidentally the same time as Mugabe’s rule. Bristow also represents the Zimbabwean Citrus Industry in the Citrus Growers Association (cga) of Southern Africa. There are only about five citrus exporters in Zimba-
to that country, and the Plant Pro-
bwe, of which three are from the Beitbridge area of the
tection department is to enter dis-
country, just north of the border of South Africa. “The
cussions to set out phytosanitary
citrus industry was developing at a fast pace until the
protocols to facilitate exports.
land invasions around 2000,” Bristow continues. “At that
“Our ties with the cga and the cri
stage there were between 4,000 and 5,000 unconfirmed
in South Africa are very strong and
hectares under production in the country. Today I am told
we receive guidance and technical
that there are about 400ha of ‘viable’ orchards in the north
support in every aspect from produc-
of the country and in the Beitbridge area orchard acreage
tion to market access, phytosanitary
now stands at around 2,000ha. Zimbabwe exports lemons,
criteria as well as pest management
grapefruit and soft citrus, but the majority of its produc-
systems,” Bristow notes. “In recent
tion is Valencia-type oranges.” He notes that the fruit is
weeks the cri has been holding work-
exported mainly to the EU, Middle East and Canada, is of
shops and biosecurity meetings in
good quality and is well received in those markets.
Harare with growers, potential grow-
It is very early days yet to comment on the new presi-
ers, and staff of Plant Protection ser-
dent and the policies he has outlined for agriculture, Bris-
vices. We are indebted to the cga for
tow explains. “Zimbabweans, being the eternal optimists,
all its help. Without it this industry
are all excited that there is a bright future for our industry.
will flounder.”
Development on the citrus estates has been stifled with
The eyes of the Zimbabwean
the uncertainty of the land reform programme, as well
industry will in the near future be
as political and economic uncertainty, so hopefully these
firmly fixed on the actions of the gov-
will be issues of the past.” He says if promises turn to real-
ernment. “I hope that we will soon
ity then there is a very bright future for the Zimbabwean
see if the change in government
industry. “I am told the prospects for foreign investment
policy materialises,” Bristow adds.
are huge and if we can return to normality we can start to
“We are, however, optimistic that this
borrow from the banks again to develop and grow.”
will be the case. From then on we can
In recent months the industry has had a Chinese delegation visit to inspect its orchards and infrastructure with
168
a view to paving the way for exports
reassess what our options are going to be.” _ E
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.168.indd 168
11/12/2017 11:51
features
report —San Miguel before selecting the Sunday’s River Valley as the base of its South African production. “Climatically it is the right place for us to be and with the products we produce there we could enhance the service to our customers,” he continues. “The extension to the Western Cape, from where we can also increase our marketing options to the US, was a logical extension of our production base in South Africa.” It is however in the Sunday’s River Valley where San Miguel has made the most impact on the South African industry. Seasoned citrus industry leader and managing director of Sunday’s River Citrus Company (srcc), Hannes de Waal, says San Miguel has fully integrated itself into the industry in the region. “They are already making a huge contribution to the economy and people of the region and we are all working together to enhance the industry and community it serves,” he outlines. Lucas says it has been a wonderful experience to establish and settle the business in South Africa. “I know that one day I will have to return to Argentina and it will certainly be very sad to leave this country and its wonderful people.” On its own farms San Miguel normally packs some 1.8m cartons of fruit in a season, although this dropped by 400,000 last year because of climatic conditions. This consist of 28 per cent lemons, 16 per cent soft citrus, 27 per cent Navels and 29 per cent Valencias. Lucas says San Miguel has worked with other produc-
San Miguel’s South African landmark
ers in the Sunday’s River Valley to establish a processing plant. “Our business model is one that integrates the two businesses: fresh exports and processed products such as juices and oils. Having the two businesses well developed is the basis of a healthy and sustainable citrus industry and we are very pleased that we
port elizabeth—Argentinean group’s “audacious and visionary” decision to invest in South African citrus in 2008 has reaped the rewards, according to Alex Lucas.
have our own processing plant on our doorstep.” He explains that while the South African citrus industry is technically sound, San Miguel, on arrival in South Africa, was able to bring new management practices to the party. “We made the point that we were in
by Fred Meintjes
South Africa to contribute and not to compete, to be ‘givers’ rather than ‘takers’. This approach has brought us acceptance and good relations with the producers
T
170
en
years
tinean marketer
ago,
Argen-
producer San
that supplied by other growers.
around us.” Through its project, Strategic Producers
and
“We cannot be happier with
Solutions (sps), which aims to work with like-minded
Miguel
the decision to invest in South
growers in packing and marketing, San Miguel has
made a crucial and courageous
Africa,” says Alex Lucas, country
gradually built its export business to the extent that it
decision to invest in citrus farm-
manager for San Miguel in South
has an additional 2.3m cartons of fruit from other
ing in South Africa. Today, the San
Africa. “The company was incredi-
growers amongst its export volumes. _ E
Miguel Group has 1,076ha of citrus
bly audacious and visionary to take
in South Africa’s Eastern and West-
this decision back in 2008.” Lucas
ern Cape regions, exporting around
tells eurofruit that San Miguel’s
ABOVE—Alex Lucas says San Miguel could not be happier with
3.6m cartons of its own fruit, and
technical team did its homework
its decision to invest in South Africa a decade ago
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.170.indd 170
05/12/2017 15:09
Lungs We work in harmony with the environment in our different points of origin, taking care of the green spaces that provide oxygen to our planet. Together with the NGO ProYungas, we
study and protect the biodiversity of our farms in Tucumán. We promote the natural coexistence between wild areas and productive areas. Just because we want to grow in a better world.
FROM THE SOUTHERN HEMISPHERE TO THE WORLD Argentina
www.sanmiguelglobal.com /sanmiguelglobal
Uruguay
South Africa
Peru
features
report —South Africa RIGHT—Warren Bam is making waves both in the field and in
the boardroom in South Africa
Warren Bam packs a punch cape town—The sati director has been named as the top new entrant in the country’s agriculture industry by South Africa’s business writers. by Fred Meintjes
A
mongst the table grape vineyards of Saron in the Western Cape, there is a new breeze of inspiration. Warren Bam, who was born
in the local community and first worked in the vineyards, now has his own table grape business, and crucially, he has shown that you do not have to be a land owner to be a successful table grape farmer. Aside from success in the vineyards, he is also achieving things in the boardroom, serving as a director of the table grape organisation sati. Bam has been named as South Africa’s top emerging farmer by the country’s agricultural writers for the second time. He entered the industry as a grower by renting land from other table grape growers and within a few years he has achieved major success. Obtaining land if you are a new entrant into table
huys, who passed away last year.
grape production, or for that matter any part of the
“Piet Geldenhuys was a straight
fruit sector, is not an easy task. There are however
guy and would tell you exactly
a number of very successful initiatives where pre-
when you were making a mess,”
viously excluded people are benefiting from partic-
he explains. Bam says he some-
ipation in the industry. Bam’s entrepreneurial skills
how always knew that he would
and finding a way to enter the industry is one of
do his own farming. “In church
those, although there is a big difference. “I worked
one day a stranger came up to me
for one of the major table grape and blueberry farms
and told me – ‘you will be a grape
in the area and finally convinced the owner to rent
farmer.’ It was strange and now it
12ha of table grapes on my own,” he says. More hect-
is coming true.”
Aside from success in the vineyards, he is also achieving things in the boardroom, serving as a director of sati
ares followed and today it is a successful organic
He outlines that taking risks,
with sati’s empowerment policy
table grape business. He now rents the farm Gun-
working hard and being patient
and says he wants to contribute to
steling, while he also has a part ownership in the
has paid off for him. “When
opening up new opportunities for
farm Wesland, which produces table grapes and
people talk about empowering
growers to enter the industry.
olives in Saron. Bam delivers his organic grapes to
people, the expectations are that
“Working in agriculture,” he says, “is
Capespan and says 80 per cent are sold in the UK
it will be a ‘rags to riches’ story. It
rewarding. People tell each other
and the rest in Europe.
is not and dedication and taking
exactly what they think and they
risks are required.”
are honest with each other. That is
He attributes much of his success to the farmers who believed in him, as well as to legendary
172
table grape expert, Piet Gelden-
Bam is also actively involved
why I like what I am doing.” _ E
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.172.indd 172
05/12/2017 16:49
APNM_AP_EUROFRUIT_NOV-DEC-2017_210x297mm_031117_VEC_HD.pdf
C
M
J
CM
MJ
CJ
CMJ
N
1
03/11/2017
10:55
FEATURES
REPORT —Morocco
Delassus shows off new look casablanca—The Moroccan fresh produce exporter has updated its image with the launch of a new visual identity for its Duroc brand and a newly redesigned, highly interactive website. by Tom Joyce
M
oroccan grower-exporter Delassus Group has announced the launch of a new visual identity for Duroc, the company’s 30-year-old brand
for snacking tomatoes. The company has rejuvenated the brand with a colourful, artistic style, while employing an algorithm on the company’s redesigned website to create an immersive experience for visitors, whether they are using a computer, smartphone or tablet. The result is a playful, multi-coloured and highly interactive site, allowing visitors to navigate using the classic slide bar or by clicking on the homepage’s various eyecatching vigne es. The improvements coincide with Delassus’s launch of its five distinct collections of snacking tomatoes, the result of five years’ research and development efforts. The range is split into Notorious (cherry and baby plum tomatoes), Sun Pops (yellow and orange cherry and baby plum tomatoes), Delicates (exclusive and extra-sweet cherry tomatoes on the vine and baby plum tomatoes on the vine), Pop Star (finest varieties such as Kumato, minigreen cherry tomatoes and pink cherry tomatoes) and Lolly Pops (a mix of all the different varieties). The branded collection is being sold through European and Russian supermarkets and is being presented at various exhibitions including wop Dubai in the uae and Fruit Logistica in Berlin. The company, which marked its 70th anniversary last year, will also be showing off its other products, including citrus, grapes and avocados. _ E
RIGHT—Delassus’s five collections for
snacking tomatoes
174
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.174-175.indd 174
05/12/2017 15:11
FEATURES
REPORT —Kenya
Muya, “mainly to France. But we are looking at Germany and the Netherlands, maybe also the UK. However, we are waiting to see what will happen with Brexit.” The Middle East remains an established market for the company, even if challenges currently
US market is a goer for The Fresh Approach
abound. “We send mangoes, avocados, all types of beans and herbs,” says Muya. “It is a good market with a very good transit time from Kenya. It’s a market that will always be there. Prices are not great, but it
nairobi—The Kenyan exporter sees good potential for
is more of a volume market. Guar-
various products in the US market once direct flights
anteeing payments can be diffi-
between Nairobi and Atlanta commence.
cult, but that’s not a problem that’s unique to the Middle East. In Asia, in Europe, you also need to find
by Tom Joyce
the right partner. It is the same in Russia. We have had a lot more enquiries into our range from cusThe
tapped by African fresh produce
Fresh Approach is hope-
companies,” says business develop-
However, one of the biggest chal-
ful that the commence-
ment director Catherine Muya. “So
lenges facing Kenyan growers right
ment of direct flights between
there is great potential for numer-
now is climate change. “It’s clear,”
Nairobi and the US city of Atlanta
ous products, including baby car-
says Muya. “The traditional rainy
will lead to a major boost in exports
rots and runner beans.”
season is shorter and starts earlier
K
enyan
exporter
tomers in Russia and Ukraine.”
to the market over the coming
The opportunity has come about
or later than in the past, making
years. “The US has not really been
through the African Growth and
growers very conscious about their
Opportunity Act (agoa), which pro-
irrigation systems. We can no
vides assistance and incentives for
longer rely on rainfall. We have a lot
African companies sending to the
of smallscale farmers, who require
US. “It is a government initiative
a lot of education into irrigation
with Kenya Airlines,” says Muya. “It
techniques in order to use and
has previously been used for man-
waste less water. Food waste is also
ufactured goods like jeans, but now
a big issue globally. This culture of
we will see the benefits for fresh
accepting only the most perfect
produce.”
fruit has to change.” _ E
“The US has not really been tapped by African fresh produce companies, so there is great potential for products including baby carrots and runner beans”
The Fresh Approach equally exports French beans, mange tout, sugarsnap peas, avocados and pas-
TOP—The Fresh Approach’s Catherine
sionfruit. “We sell to Europe,” says
Muya with MD David Muya
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.174-175.indd 175
175
05/12/2017 15:11
features
report —Africa
In April 2017, Coleacp conducted a market study into the opportunities for acp producers to develop on the European market. After years of steady decline in consumption, the report noted a rise in demand
ACP region gets Fit For Market
in Europe for products that are other programmes called pip and
healthy, practical and environmen-
edes, and in line with industry
tally friendly.
requirements regarding sustain-
“Over a 10-year period, we have
ability. The project is managed by
seen a steady increase in acp fruit
Coleacp and is part of the intra–
and vegetable exports to the EU
acp indicative programme (2014–
market,” says Bourcelet. “Looking
2020) for cooperation between the
more closely at acp products, there
EU and acp states. The total budget
is a notable decline in pineapple
is €25m, with co-funding €20m
exports, while exports of avocados,
in African, Caribbean and Pacific countries,
from the European Development
mangoes and vegetables have been
not least through its Fit For Market
Fund and €20m from the Agence
growing steadily.”
brussels—Brussels-based organisation Coleacp is continuing to provide wideranging support to producers and exporters
programme.
Française de Développement. “In just six months, the programme has received 215 requests
by Tom Joyce
for support from 30 acp countries,” comments Coleacp’s head of information and communication hrough its Fit For Market
Emmanuel Bourcelet. “Following
(ffm) programme, which
these numerous requests, the Cole-
was officially launched
acp team dedicated to ffm is mobil-
includes training
in December 2016, interprofes-
ised to prepare actions in the field.”
to improve
sional organisation Coleacp is
Although significant poten-
growers’
providing valuable support to
tial has been identified on the
competitiveness
companies in African, Caribbean
European market, this does not
and Pacific (acp) countries that
imply that non-EU countries have
December 2016 saw the intro-
produce and export fresh and pro-
been excluded from the proj-
duction of the new EU Plant Health
cessed fruit and vegetables. The
ect, according to Bourcelet. “We
Regulation, which involves a major
organisation works in partner-
observe a number of opportuni-
overhaul of EU plant health legisla-
ship with civil society and profes-
ties for development on the Euro-
tion that has been in place since
sionals in the public and private
pean market,” he says. “This does
1977. It repeals and replaces the
sectors, with the aim of develop-
not mean, on the contrary, that
seven existing Council Directives
ing and improving market access,
the
commercial
on harmful organisms, becoming
training and sustaining their
development outside the EU and
fully applicable on 13 December
human resources, implementing
the intra-regional acp markets
2019. According to Bourcelet, Cole-
an environmental management
should be underestimated. As
acp will be working closely with
policy, improving their competi-
the ffm programme also explores
acp representatives at the sps Com-
tiveness and facilitating access to
these markets, more precise mea-
mittee, competent authorities in
finance companies.
TOP—The Fit
For Market programme
176
T
“We have seen a steady increase in exports to the European Union, with avocados, mangoes and vegetables growing steadily”
potential
for
surement of their potential for
acp countries and industry repre-
ffm was designed for a period
acp fruit and vegetables will be
sentative to avoid any losses or
of five years, based on the expe-
the subject of further studies,
breaka in trade that would have a
riences and positive results of
planned in 2018.”
negative effect on development. _ E
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.176-177.indd 176
05/12/2017 15:36
features
REPORT —Africa
Bella Exotica in organic drive
BOTTOM—
Organic chilies from Bella Exotica Rwanda
port louis—The Mauritian exporter is transitioning to organic cultivation for its growing range, in addition to opening a new branch of the company in Rwanda. by Tom Joyce
B
ella Exotica, an exporter based on the East African
island
of
Mauri-
Keitt Exporters claims quality award
tius, has registered a new branch of the company in Rwanda, accord-
In October, Kenya-based Keitt
ing to Vickram Meghu. “Bella Exot-
Exporters won the International
ica Rwanda specialises only in the
Quality Award for Europe from
export of organic products like extra
the Global Trade Leaders Club
fine beans, chilies and snow peas for
in Paris, France. The award
the European market,” he says. “And
recognises companies’ efforts to
we have a huge project underway to
attain high quality standards,
transition all our products to organic
with Keitt Exporters credited
cultivation.”
for investing in training its
The company also has a base in
farmers on Good Agricultural
India in collaboration with an Indian
Practices and their adherence to
partner for the export of Thomp-
proper post-harvest handling
son Seedless grapes, “In addition, we
procedures. “This award serves
have also started to produce seed-
as great recognition of our
less limes,” says Meghu. “And we have
efforts to ensure that we supply
diversified into the production of
quality fresh fruit and vegetables
organic exotic vegetables.”
that meet and surpass our
Bella Exotica’s objective in the coming years is to export exclusively organic products. “In Berlin, we will
customers’ expectations,” says the company’s Anne Kavai. Keitt Exporters has grown
be promoting our organic range of
from exporting 15 tonnes of
extra fine beans, avocados, pome-
mangoes a week in 2002 to
granates and pineapples,” he says. _ E
exporting over 250 tonnes of avocados, mangoes and fresh vegetables, with 60 per cent destined for Europe. It has boosted its staff from 20 to over 500, and now has its own premises and state-ofthe-art packhouse. “Our hope is that the award will serve as encouragement to every sme that no matter how small the beginnings, staying true to the values that really matter is what will always count,” says Kavai.
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.176-177.indd 177
177
05/12/2017 15:36
features
report —Egypt
“Despite strict requirements, China is a huge market that focuses on premium quality with appropriate payback”
Egypt gains ground in citrus market
one of the worst seasons for Egyptian grapes in
Bouncing back and into China
Egypt continues to bolster its
a decade, as Indian grapes flooded
status as a citrus supplier, with
the market while demand suffered.
investments in planting and
Meanwhile, the Egyptian economy
production beginning to concern
is still reeling from the effects of the
Spanish suppliers to markets
country’s demonetisation process for
for grapes, Egyptian exporters have been
including the UK. Director of
the Egyptian pound, raising the costs
buoyed by the opening of the Chinese
sales at Egyptian exporter
of production. However, the out-
Sama Trade, Sophie Hassan,
look for coming seasons looks more
market and the EU’s decision to lower
revealed the company’s efforts
encouraging.
to develop more plantings. “We
With the new mutual import pro-
are building our own packhouse
tocol signed with the Chinese author-
as we prepare to export more
ities, this market is expected to
containers every year,” she
become one of the main destinations
giza—Given how tough market has been
inspections on Egyptian fruit. by Tom Joyce
says. “We export 5,000 tonnes
for Egyptian grapes. “Despite the
Prime variety is now in full produc-
per season. We prefer the Asian
strict phytosanitary requirements,
tion. We’re also going to see our first
market, but we also export to
China is a huge market that focuses
harvest of Starlight, although this
Europe, Africa and the Middle
on premium quality with appropriate
variety will be produced in limited
East. Our next step is America,
payback,” says Ahmed El-Hodaiby of
quantities. During the next season,
Egyptian exporter Trade Waves.
we’re planning to work with a new
the UK and Australia. We are interested to open the market in
Also positive has been the EU’s
the UK, but the problem there is
decision to remove Egyptian grapes
These varieties are aimed at
that not all companies accept
from its list of high-risk crops and
extending the Egyptian season and
our down payment conditions
lower inspection rates at EU ports to
supplying types of grape that are
and fixed prices.”
below 20 per cent. “This will definite-
better suited to distant markets.
Sama Trade exports lemons and
ly have a positive impact on Egyptian
“Starlight is a red grape that is earli-
mandarins, as well as Naval and
exports and, of course, on costs and
er than Flame,” explains El-Hodaiby.
delivery times,” says El-Hodaiby.
“In addition to an extended season,
Valencia oranges. “The season
178
L
ast year proved to be
TOP—Ahmed El-
Hodaiby, general manager of Trade Waves
dark red and a new black variety.”
for oranges starts in December,
As newly planted areas enter
Starlight also provides better char-
and this year we will export to
into production, El-Hodaiby expects
acteristics and better sizes than
Australia for the first time,”
export volumes at Trade Waves
Flame. It is a tougher grape, which
says Hassan. “We will export
to increase by around 20 per cent.
makes it better suited for the longer
Valencia because Navals aren’t
“Trade Waves has been working on
transit times when exporting to dis-
good for long trips.”
new types of grapes,” he says. “Our
tant markets.” _ E
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.178.indd 178
05/12/2017 15:41
Untitled-7 1
23/11/2017 16:10
FEATURES
REPORT —Egypt
Levity CropScience appoints Egyptian distributor
market for Levity,” says David Marks, managing director of Levity CropScience. “Egypt is a market where we anticipate large volume sales, and we are looking forward to working
alexandria—The UK-based firm anticipates large volume sales in the Middle East and North Africa, with more appointments to follow.
with Mahmoud and his team to help Egyptian farmers get the very best from their crops. This is the first of our distribution appointments in the
by Tom Joyce
Middle East and North Africa that will be announced during 2017.” According to Marks, Levity prod-
L
ancashire-based Levity CropScience
has
yields in fruit and vegetables, as
ucts help crops to cope with high
appointed a distributor in Egypt, eyeing new
well as improving quality and resil-
temperatures and poor water, as well
sales opportunities for its ‘smart fertilisers’
ience in potatoes, so fruit, topfruit,
as increasing yields and improving
in the Middle East and North Africa. The company says
bananas, protected crops and leafy
quality in challenging conditions,
its products are well suited to helping improve crop pro-
vegetables.
which is boosting interest in the
duction in arid climates, and in Egypt its focus will be on
Egypt is an important exporter of
region. “We’re delighted to be increas-
potatoes, a crop in which Levity prod-
ing the volume of our pioneering
The Egyptian distributor, United Group of Agencies
ucts have been proven to increase
products across the globe,” he says.
Agricultural Development Co, will market Levity’s full
yields by US$1,000 per hectare in inde-
“There is a clear demand for our high-
six-product range: Lono, Lono Plus, Sulis, Albion, Indra
pendent field trials. “The Middle East
quality, yield-increasing, smart fertil-
and Damu. These fertilisers are designed to increase
and North Africa is a strong growth
isers in the export market.” _ E
major export crops, including grapes and potatoes.
180
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.180.indd 180
11/12/2017 11:55
Your guide to fresh produce in Europe
2018
• More than 4,500 addresses from 7 European countries, revised annually • Trading companies, service providers, official bodies and institutions • Trend and POS reports on 10 key fresh product categories • Statistics on the German grocery market
ORDER YOUR COPY TODAY! ORDER FORM Please send us the 2018 edition of the FRUCHTHANDEL BRANCHEN-GUIDE at € 64.50 per copy plus postage and VAT if applicable. See below for details of delivery and postage costs. Number of copies
Name
Company
Address
Address
Tel
Country
Fax
VAT ID. no. (EU countries only)
Date
Signature
Delivery and postage Postage costs for 1 copy: €7.00 (Germany), €11.00 (other EU countries), €19.50 (outside Europe). Please ask for details of postage for multiple copies. Contact: Ingrid Bergmeister, Tel +49-211-99 10 4-12, ib@fruchthandel.de Please return this coupon to FRUITNET MEDIA INTERNATIONAL GmbH PO Box 10 55 51 • 40046 Düsseldorf • Germany Fax +49-211-691 17 46 • info@fruchthandel.de • www.fruchthandel.de
BG2018_lieferbar_Az.indd 2
06.11.17 13:46
features
report —Iran
What now for Iran? tehran—Following years of crippling international sanctions, Iran is now on the road to recovery, with many eyeing incipient opportunities both in production and imports. by John Baker
he era prior to the introduction of interna-
Import potential
essary to improve the quality of pro-
tional sanctions, and before more recent
Currently, the only imports permitted
duction and reduce wastage.
import controls were imposed by the Iranian
by the Iranian government are those
Despite the restrictions, banana
government, is indicative of the latent demand in Iran
tropical fruits that cannot be grown
imports are significant, ranging from
for imported fresh produce during its off-season and
locally – bananas, pineapples, man-
40m-50m cartons annually. Banan-
when the country’s local production is insufficient to
goes and semi-husk coconuts.
as are sourced from Ecuador and the
T
182
meet the people’s needs. A decade ago, Iran was a sub-
Emami suggests the main limita-
Philippines, along with smaller vol-
stantial importer of bananas, citrus, pears, grapes, stone-
tions for imports are the government
umes of cheaper bananas from India,
fruit and tropical fruits.
restrictions that have been imposed
the volume of which has increased
Alireza Emami, ceo of Zarrin Group, one of Iran’s
due to a lack of financial resources to
recently. The Philippines is the
leading importers and exporters, suggests imports could
import, as well as import controls to
number one supplier, yet Ecuador is
again be a significant feature of the Iranian fresh pro-
support local producers. Other lim-
regarded as shipping the best quality.
duce trade if restrictions are lifted. In particular, he
itations are the major devaluation
Pineapple imports are sourced
believes there would be good potential for counter-sea-
of the Iranian rial, making imports
from the Philippines, with small vol-
sonal citrus, grape and apple imports from the Southern
more expensive, and a lack of funds
umes from Malaysia. The md2 super-
Hemisphere.
for infrastructure development, nec-
sweet variety from the Philippines is
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.182-184.indd 182
05/12/2017 15:28
features
the most popular, due to its size and
supplied by land transport at com-
high Brix. Malaysia supplies smaller,
petitive prices. Airfreighted man-
lower Brix fruit.
goes from other sources are too expensive to be competitive, how-
Port options
ever, while shelf-life is a challenge.
Q&A
Direct shipments into Iran come through two main entry ports,
Slow retail development
Bandar Abbas and, further upstream,
Retailing in Iran is dominated in vil-
Port of Bushehr. Most reefer ves-
lages, towns and cities by small spe-
sels discharge at Bushehr, which is
cialist fruit and vegetable stores. In
How big are banana imports in Iran?
smaller and less congested, offering
addition to the many small retail-
Bananas are our main activity. In a typical month,
quicker discharge, although plug-in
ers, some cities have open-area mar-
Zarrin Group imports around 125 containers from
facilities for containers are limited.
kets, with different sections for fresh
Ecuador and more from the Philippines. In addition, 30
As a result, most containers are dis-
produce, meat and other categories.
to 40 containers are sourced monthly from India.
charged at Bandar Abbas, which has
These markets often have fixed max-
more and better plug-in facilities and
imum prices, dictated by the local
What investments have you made in banana
a greater capacity.
municipalities, which also provide
infrastructure?
inspectors to grade produce.
Maintaining quality is our first priority. On arrival we
A third option used for Ecuador-
Alireza Emami Zarrin Group
have technical specialists who assess fruit out-turn
ean bananas is to ship to Mersin,
The modern retail sector for
the Mediterranean hub in southern
fresh fruit and vegetables is not well
and call in independent assessors if needed. We
Turkey, then transport by road to
developed, with very few supermar-
have recently invested in modern, state-of-the-art
Iran. Shipments entering the coun-
kets and hypermarkets, especially
cool rooms and ripening rooms. Cool rooms provide
try through this channel can disturb
outside Tehran. Even in the capi-
flexibility to hold fruit at 13°C, then ripen fruit according
the balance of the market. Accord-
tal, there are estimated to be only 20
to supply and demand. 24 ripening rooms have a
ing to Emami, this choice isn’t used
major hypermarkets from a number
combined capacity of 800 pallets. Staff at the wholesale
by Zarrin, as the company prefers to
of operators, including government-
markets provide a link to these facilities and coordinate
import direct from the origin.
owned stores. Fruit and vegetable
supplies to wholesalers.
Mangoes are imported primari-
departments are normally small and
ly from Pakistan, since they can be
restricted to a small range of prod-
What are your main exports and markets?
ucts, mostly prepacks. In all retailers
To Iraq, Afghanistan and the uae, watermelons, apples
there is a lack of refrigerated storage
and tomatoes are the three main exports. Central Asia
and refrigerated displays.
and Russia are important, as there is less competition
OPPOSITE—Iran’s retail sector is
dominated by traditional grocery stores BELOW—Citrus production is widespread
across the country
As a result, wholesale markets are essential for efficient distribu-
»
and business is less complex than many other markets. Exports to Central Asia include apples, kiwifruit, cucumbers, grapes, plus pomegranates in some years. Bananas are also re-exported. If the market were to open up more, what products would have the most potential? Oranges from Egypt and Southern Hemisphere suppliers, such as South Africa, would be welcome. Kinnow mandarins from Pakistan would have potential, because they could be delivered overland and the taste is excellent. Other products would be apples and table grapes, again mainly from the Southern Hemisphere. What changes have you observed with the lifting of some sanctions? Sanctions have no major direct impact on imports; the main constraint has been restrictions imposed by the Iranian Government on non-tropical fruits, to protect local producers. Sanctions continue to impact banking and finance, meaning payments can still be an issue, especially for smaller importers without overseas offices. For our company, and others who have offshore offices, payments are not an issue.
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.182-184.indd 183
183
05/12/2017 15:29
features
tion. The largest wholesale market,
than their parents, resulting in lower
in Tehran, serves the city’s population
fruit and vegetable consumption.
of 18m, plus surrounding areas. The
Most locally-grown fruits and
market is based loosely on the Rungis
vegetables are available in bulk,
design in Paris. It has expanded from
with retailers arguing that it pro-
three sales salons, or buildings, prior
vides consumers with a choice of
to the 1979 Revolution, to 22 buildings
size and quality in one carton. How-
today, with over 1,000 wholesalers.
ever, it is possibly more a reflection of other factors, including the market-
banana balance
ing system, protection from import
Typical of wholesale operators is
competition and the lack of access
Mr Heshmati of Heshmati Brothers
to funds for improved infrastructure,
Trading, one of Zarrin Group’s sales
such as grading and cooling facilities.
agents that specialises in a limited
Although individual farms are tra-
range of fruits, including bananas. He
ditionally small, most farmers supply
says there are no refrigeration facili-
direct to wholesale markets, as cen-
ties in the market, so it is essential to
tralised packhouses are not available
balance daily orders to minimise left-
in all growing regions.
over stock at the end of each day’s trading.
tect Iranian fruit and vegetable grow-
Heshmati says that while Ecua-
ers, who have filled the gap and built
dorean bananas are more expensive,
a level of self-sufficiency for a range
they usually sell before fruit from
of fresh produce. Iran is a signifi-
the Philippines due to their superi-
cant producer of a host of fresh fruit,
or quality. The key is to balance sales
including apples, pears, citrus, stone-
with demand, to clear stocks on a
fruit, table grapes, kiwifruit, straw-
daily basis. For example, demand
berries and pomegranates.
for bananas is lower in the summer,
Premium apple and pear grow-
when consumers have the alterna-
ing regions include Orumich in the
tive of new-season local fruits being
northwest of Iran and Damavand,
available.
northeast of Tehran. Citrus produc-
Nooshin Mohammadali, market-
tion is widespread across the country,
ing executive and quality manager
including north near the Caspian Sea
with Zarrin Group, says Ecuadorean
and south around Jirofl City. Kiwi-
bananas are of a much better qual-
fruit production is based in the north,
ity, if higher priced, but that there
near the Caspian Sea.
is a market for higher quality. Even
The best regions for table grape
though the shipping time from the
production include northwest and
Philippines is only 28 days, compared
central Iran, around Shahrood. The
as a desert region, Iran has significant water resourc-
with 45 days from Ecuador, a big dif-
Kurdistan region of Iran is regarded
es, which have been progressively and efficiently devel-
ference is that fruit from Ecuador
as the best strawberry growing area,
oped over the past 3,000 years. The importance of water is
is inspected for quality before it is
while the best pomegranates are pro-
typified by an informative Water Museum in Yazd, south
shipped, unlike in the Philippines.
duced at Saveh, near Tehran, and
of Tehran, featuring the role of qanats, a unique under-
in central Iran. Shiraz and Bandar
ground water distribution system. The longest qanat runs
Developing independence
Abbas are recognised for their water-
75km from snow-fed mountains to Yazd, initially con-
Consumer trends are also having an
melon and Cantaloupe production.
structed 3,000 years ago and still in operation today.
impact on fresh produce consump-
Cucumbers, tomatoes, onions and
A major challenge facing the Iranian production and
tion, according to Mohammadali. The
garlic are major vegetable crops, along
postharvest sector is access to funding, to enable invest-
rising cost of living and the impact
with potatoes, although the country’s
ment in technology, such as packhouse systems, coupled
of sanctions on purchasing power
cuisine is rice-based. The country is
with cool chain infrastructure, such as refrigeration and
have resulted in significant growth in
also one of the world’s largest produc-
controlled atmosphere storage. _ E
two-income families, especially in the
ers of pistachios, dates, almonds, wal-
major cities, such as Tehran. Younger
nuts and hazelnuts, resulting in high
people, in particular, have less time
domestic per capita consumption.
for food preparation and cooking
184
Import bans are in place to pro-
Despite its international image
TOP—Nooshin Mohammadali of Zarrin Group ABOVE—Ecuadorean bananas are prized for their quality in Iran
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.182-184.indd 184
05/12/2017 15:29
r e t s i G e r NOW & save early bird rates
19 | 20 | 21 March 2018 WTC CONVENTION CENTER – ROTTERDAM
The annual meeting point for the global berry business For information on sponsorships, exhibiting and to join the mailing list email info@berrycongress.com
Sponsors include
Organised by
Supported by @berrycongress
berrycongress.com
Part of Fruitnet Media International 132 Wandsworth Road, London SW8 2LB, United Kingdom. Tel +44 20 7501 3700 | Fax + 44 20 7501 0306 | fruitnet.com *Offer valid until 16th of February 2018
GBC2018 Filler_RegisterNow.indd 1
05/12/2017 15:38
features
report —Blueberries
ABC reflects on better year
blueberries and those from other Southern Hemisphere sources, a message that it plans to build on
buenos aires—2017 marked a sea change for Argentina’s blueberry industry, but has it done enough to reverse its fortunes in the long-term?
in future campaigns. Bayá notes that efforts to raise awareness of Argentine blueberries in the domestic market, where
by Maura Maxwell
consumption is still very low, are also yielding some success and with be repeated in the future.
A
with
government
sumption capacity of each different market and
planning and good for-
programming the necessary promotions for each one,
efforts to improve competitive-
tune led to a signifi-
and this helped to prevent stock levels from building
ness through the reform of labour
cant improvement in Argentina’s
up, which is what generally causes the biggest price
and tax laws this all adds up to a
2017 blueberry campaign, accord-
falls,” says Bayá.
brighter future for Argentine ber-
ing to Federico Bayá, president of
“The result was that although prices were lower
ries. “The way forward for Argenti-
the Argentine Blueberry Commit-
for early season fruit, this led to better rotation as the
na is to go on focusing on cutting
tee (abc).
season progressed and helped maintain prices at rea-
costs, improving the condition of
sonable levels from mid-season onwards.”
the fruit on arrival and program-
The later start to the Chilean deal, coupled with Peru’s decision
The abc’s Matías Notti acknowledges that Peru’s
ming promotions in key markets
to send more early-season fruit
strategy of sending a larger proportion of its ear-
around weeks of peak supply,” he
to China, allowed Argentina some
ly-season berries to China helped ease pressure on
says. _ E
much-needed breathing space in
the US market during the first weeks of the season,
the US market at either end of its
allowing more space for Argentine arrivals.
ABOVE LEFT—A reduction in costs and
season, while a switch to maritime,
The biggest factor, however, was the industry’s
rather than airfreighted exports
decision to send a greater proportion of exports by
ABOVE RIGHT—The committee’s president
played a key role in helping to
sea. In all, maritime exports increased by 44 per cent
Federico Bayá
reduce costs and regulate prices
this season while airfreighted volumes fell 11 per cent.
during the course of the season.
“Without doubt, the combination of lower costs and
Shipments
186
Together
combination of better
totalled
improved prices helped lift returns
16,500
better retail prices helped to lift returns this season,
tonnes – a similar volume to the
but this recipe may not always correspond with
The US absorbs the lion’s
previous year and slightly less
market opportunities,” Notti says. “At the end of the
share of Argentine blueberry
than the 18,000 tonnes forecast at
day, the climate is often the decisive factor.”
exports, taking 63 per cent of the total shipment volume in
the outset of the campaign. How-
Another key difference this season was the abc’s
ever, prices were better overall
decision to intensify its promotional efforts, both at
2017. This was followed by the
than in 2016.
home and abroad. Under the slogan ‘Taste the sweet-
European Union (31 per cent),
“We put a lot of effort into plan-
ness, enjoy the difference’, the committee has sought
Canada (4 per cent) and Asia
ning this year, analysing the con-
to underscore the difference between Argentine
(2 per cent).
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.186.indd 186
05/12/2017 15:28
Untitled-1 1
05/12/2017 16:40
features
report —Cherries
Argentine cherries bounce back mendoza—After several lean years, producers are hoping the bigger crop will help them to recover some lost ground this season. by Maura Maxwell
A
bumper
harvest
and
favourable marketing out-
have lost in the global market in recent years.
look have made for an aus-
“Argentina’s economic problems
picious start to the 2017/18 Argentine
and a run of poor harvests have
cherry season. According to the Insti-
caused us to miss out abroad but now
tute for Rural Development (ird), the
the conditions are right for a recov-
crop was on course to be the biggest
ery,” said Carleti. “If exports do well
in five years, weighing in at 5,900
this will alleviate pressure on the
The bigger cherry crop will help shore up the
tonnes. Given that output did not
domestic market and bring about a
volume of Argentine fruit cargo handled by
exceed 3,500 tonnes in the three years
recovery in prices.”
United Airlines this season, as blueberry sendings
from 2013 to 2015 and is believed to
The bulk of Argentine cherry
have fallen to less than 2,000 tonnes
exports end up in Europe and Hong
in 2016, this marks a welcome return
Kong, and the sector is now trying to
to form.
gain access to the Chinese market.
continue to drop off in the light of increased competition from Peru. According to Carlos Medrano, regional manager, cargo sales, the busiest services for fruit cargo are to Newark and Los Angeles in
Alberto Carleti, an independent
“China is the world’s largest con-
producer and president of the Cham-
sumer market and is prepared to
the US and London, Frankfurt, Munich and
ber of Commerce, Industry and Agri-
pay higher prices than the general
Amsterdam in Europe. “Our newest service,
culture of Tunuyán, Mendoza, told
market, which is why it is so impor-
launched in October 2017, is a daily flight from
Los Andes that barring some rains
tant for us to be there,” said Aguilar.
Buenos Aires to Newark Liberty, New York,” he
in early November, the climatic con-
“The problem is that it has its own
tells eurofruit.
ditions have been optimum for cher-
certification system and the inspec-
ries in the run up to the new season.
tors are very demanding.”
Medrano says the trade outlook has improved considerably since the government of President Mauricio Macri came to power in
“Everything indicates that the prov-
Producers are calling on the ird
ince will have a good production
to conduct a new census to measure
2015. “Since the removal of currency controls
volume,” he said.
cherry plantings in the province. The
and the move to a floating exchange rate
Tunuyán lies in the heart of the
last census, carried out by the insti-
Argentina is more open to the world and new
Uco Valley, one of the main produc-
tute in 2010, showed that there were
trade links are being forged,” he says.
tion zones in Mendoza along with the
1,151ha in the province, but today’s
northern regions of Las Heras, Lugán
figure is likely to be much lower.
de Cuyo and Maipú.
“We think that there are around
“In some areas we’re seeing yields
600-700ha of cherry plantings in
of 8-9 tonnes per hectare, close to
Mendoza but we need more precise
the optimum for the province,” said
data to give us a clearer picture and
Diego Aguilar of the Mendoza Cham-
help us develop adequate strategies,”
ber of Cherries.
Carleti said. _ E
Exporters hope that the bigger crop, coupled with an improved
188
exchange rate, will enable them to
ABOVE RIGHT—Mother Nature has been
recover some of the ground they
kind to producers this season
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.188.indd 188
05/12/2017 15:30
Untitled-2 1
29/11/2017 16:35
features
report —Pomegranates
Onwards and upwards says EPS Argentina’s eps Farms is turning to Chilean know-how to help it convert its blueberry production to larger, firmer varieties that can be shipped by sea as it continues to streamline its operations to counter fierce competition on the market. The company has embarked on an ambitious programme to future-proof its exports, overhauling its varietal portfolio and adding extra
Amber light for pomegranate expansion
capacity at its packhouse. “The idea is to load the containers directly at our farms and eventually move to 100 per cent maritime shipments,” explains president
cruz del eje—Granadas Argentinas is adopting a cautious approach to growth in light of the increasingly crowded market.
Santiago Bacigalupo. “We have employed a new agronomist, Alejandro Salazar, who has vast experience in this field, and is
by Maura Maxwell
due to visit Chilean farms this season to learn more about their growing and pruning
G
ally as young trees mature, Scara-
opportunities as the European pomegranate
fia prefers to adopt a wait-and-see
market continues to feel the pressure of rising
approach before committing to fur-
introducing new lines such as
ther expansion.
cherries, lemons, pears and
global output. Director Marcelo Scarafia says Canada, Asia and the US – particularly the East Coast – will be the main focus of export growth over the coming year. A surge in new plantings has dramatically cut prices
“We won’t be adding any new acre-
The company is also
pomegranates and is in talks
age until we have found the right
with producers in Chile and the
strategic partners,” he says.
US with a view to extending its supply window.
during the past two years, and the situation is likely to
A lot rests on how things devel-
worsen as these new orchards become more productive.
op in Brazil, where the company is
“It became increasingly clear
Peru in particular is having a major impact on the South-
conducting trials to supply arils to
that we needed to adapt in order
ern Hemisphere season, which runs from the end of Janu-
a well-known marketer and nego-
to evolve and with the right
ary to mid-April. According to figures from Agrodata Peru,
tiations to secure access for fresh
investment and by adopting
the country exported US60.7m in the first three quarters
Argentine pomegranates are at an
good agricultural practices
of 2017, well over the US$40m exported during the whole
advanced stage.
we believe that we’ll achieve
of the previous year.
In
the
meantime,
Granadas
“For now there is a delicate balance between supply
Argentinas is pressing head with
and demand, but there’s no doubt that the sharp rise in
investments in new machinery at its
Peruvian production is putting pressure on prices, and
packhouse, specifically the installa-
a number of less efficient producers have already been
tion of new optical sorters to speed
forced to uproot orchards,” Granadas Argentina’s director,
up processing times.
Scarafia tells eurofruit.
190
techniques.”
ranadas Argentinas is eyeing new export
the goals that we have set ourselves, “says Bacigalupo.
The company also continues to
The company has 250ha of production near the city
diversify its offer with plans develop
of Cruz del Eje in the province of Córdoba, plus a fur-
a line of organic pomegranates and
ther 200ha earmarked for future expansion. However,
pomegranate arils for the ready-to-
with output from existing acreage set to increase annu-
eat market. _ E
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.190-191.indd 190
05/12/2017 15:31
features
REPORT —Citrus
Citrus giants put provenance centre stage buenos aires—From next season, home-grown citrus from San Miguel and Citrusvil will be marketed under the Alimentos Argentinos label.
Veracruz plots steady course for growth Tucumán-based SA Veracruz’s lemon output is projected to rise sharply following its acquisition
by Maura Maxwell
of 400ha of new land last year. The company has acquired 400ha of new land, of which 120ha were planted last year and another 100ha are due to be planted in 2018. “We have also made significant investments in our packhouse, doubling our pre-selection capacity,” says commercial manager Carolina Seleme. She insists that Veracruz is well positioned to meet the challenges of the future. Shipping fresh and processed lemons to almost 50 countries worldwide affords the company some protection when there
S
an Miguel and Citrusvil have become the first
is a downturn in the European
two citrus companies in Argentina to adopt
market, as happened last year.
the country’s Alimentos Argentinos quality
“We also ensure that we have the reserves to see us through
seal. The label, which is overseen by Argentina’s Ministry of Agroindustry, is awarded to foods that are produced in compliance with strict quality and traceability protocols. It is independently audited by agencies that
ABOVE—San Miguel says the label
the lean times – something that
underscores the company’s commitment
all Argentine companies have
to quality
learnt to do,” she says.
certify good agricultural practices in the production, packing and shipping process.
ures, the event drew more than 300
Meanwhile, Böttcher says the
“As a global supplier we are used to certifications
exhibitors and 15,000 visitors from
incorporation of recent acquisition
and audits and already have sophisticated processes
45 countries and generated some
Agrícola Hoja Redonda (ahr) into
in place,” says San Miguel’s communications manager
US$300m in sales.
the group is progressing well. At the
Federico Böttcher. “This seal gives us something extra,
While the 2017 lemon season
time of going to press the company
because Argentine food has an excellent reputation
was marred by low prices in Europe
was preparing for the start of the
around the world.”
caused by the upswing in Span-
new Peruvian table grape season,
Citrusvil director Daniel Lucci adds that the label
ish Verna production, there were
with its first avocado harvest due to
underscores the company’s quest for excellence. “Our
nevertheless some positives to be
come on stream later this year.
growth is built on being able to guarantee the quality,
gleaned from the campaign. Per-
“This is a major step for San
safety and traceability of our products,” he notes.
haps the main one was the fact that
Miguel as it is the first time in our
The announcement was made at the inaugural Latin
EU interventions for citrus black
history that we’ll be marketing fruit
American B2B Expo, AlimentAR, which took place in
spot fell sharply, from 17 in 2016 to
other than citrus,” he says. “We are
Buenos Aires in November. Méndez describes the event
just five last year, reflecting the pos-
very impressed by the level of pro-
as a huge success, attracting participants from all of
itive steps taken by exporters and
fessionalism we’ve found at ahr,
Argentina’s main industries as well as neighbouring
the plant health authority to keep
particularly the quality of its per-
countries Chile and Brazil. According to the official fig-
the disease in check.
sonnel.” _ E
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.190-191.indd 191
191
05/12/2017 15:31
features
report —Peru
Cultivating a future lima—With its focus on high-value product lines such as blueberries and avocados, Consorcio de Productores de Fruta is building a sustainable future, says commercial manager Rodolfo Lozano.
Camposol underscores caring credentials
by Maura Maxwell This year will be Camposol’s 16th year participating at Fruit Logistica and a welcome opportunity for the eru’s Consorcio de Pro-
in Peru’s citrus acreage is likely to
company to showcase its new blueberry brand, The
ductores de Fruta (cpf)
impact the market in the years
Berry That Cares, which it introduced last year to
reached another impor-
ahead, although he remains con-
underline its philosophy of combining high quality
tant milestone last year with the
fident that provided quality levels
produce with a strong social and environmental
harvesting of its first commercial
are maintained this will help gen-
commitment.
blueberry crop.
erate new demand.
P
Today, blueberries are of strategic importance for the further growth and consolidation of the
The company has been adding
The table grape situation is
new high-value lines including
somewhat more complicated, how-
seedless Sweet Jubilee grapes and
ever, with the company’s farms
pomegranates to its core offer of
bearing the brunt of the fallout
booth. Over the past years, world avocado
citrus and avocado and its growing
from El Niño. As a result it has had
consumption has increased steadily, and it keeps
focus on the Asian market made
to slash its export volume from 100
on growing in Camposol’s key markets in the US,
blueberries a natural fit to its rap-
containers to just 20.
Europe, and China.
idly expanding export portfolio.
This may have temporarily put
company. Avocados will also be a focus of Camposol’s
“We will highlight our blueberries and avocados,
“We’re currently talking about
the brakes on the company’s expan-
but also mandarins, grapes and mangoes, as well
small volumes, but the quality of
sion into Asia, its fastest grow-
as environmental and social issues which will be
the first crop was extraordinary
ing export market, but as Lozano
important topics for our talks with existing and
and the fruit has been very well
observes, it is better to ship nothing
potential customers,” says ceo Jorge Ramírez.
received by our customers. Based
rather than fruit of inferior quality
“Fruit Logistica will be an excellent opportunity
on these initial results I’m con-
that could have a hugely detrimen-
to better understand their requirements, which will
vinced we will be able to carve out
tal effect to Peru’s reputation.
have a decisive influence on our long-term product
a niche for our brand in the years
Fortunately,
such
climatic
development.” Camposol Holding announced in November that
to come,” says commercial manag-
events are rare in Peru. “The last
er Rodolfo Lozano.
time we experienced such an epi-
was is planning an initial public offering to raise
Meanwhile, cpf’s avocados put
sode was more than 20 years ago,”
US$345m to fund the expansion of its fresh fruit and
in another solid performance. “This
he says. “That is one of Peru’s big-
shrimp business.
past year the market has once
gest advantages – production is
again demonstrated its huge inter-
located in an area that doesn’t
est in this product, and by and
suffer from droughts, frosts or
large we saw good prices across the
snow, and where the climate pro-
board,” he says.
duces good quality fruit and high
Nevertheless Lozano is mind-
yields.” _ E
ful of the fact that demand will have to keep on growing to keep pace with the coming increases in
192
global supply. At the same time,
TOP—cpf says avocado prices were good
he is aware that the continued rise
across all markets
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.192.indd 192
05/12/2017 15:40
Untitled-1 1
07/12/2017 09:29
features
report —Superfoods
Peruvian superfood push yields results lima—Pomegranate and blueberry exports are booming thanks to a surge in new plantings. by Maura Maxwell
Football bonanza Avocados, table grapes, citrus, mangoes and asparagus could be among the products to benefit from a planned marketing push by the Peruvian government to coincide with the 2018 Football World Cup in Russia. This is the first year that Peru has qualified for the finals since 1982, and to mark the occasion, the country is designing a promotional campaign to showcase Peruvian products together with the country’s tourism industry.
P
eru has recorded sharp rise in pomegranate
of total shipments. The remainder
and blueberry exports as new farms become
goes to the US (7 per cent), Canada (4
more productive and access to international
per cent), Belgium (4 per cent), uae (3
markets continues to improve.
Teresa Mera, director general
Figures from Agrodata Peru reveal that by the end of
Meanwhile, new acreage and
of the Peruvian Foreign Trade
September, pomegranate exports had already exceeded
access to new markets like China
Offices (Ocex) explains that the
the total for the whole of 2016 by 50.75 per cent, reach-
and Brazil has also led to a surge in
government was approached by
ing US$60.7m compared with US$40.3m for the year-ear-
Peru’s blueberry exports.
a number of companies wishing
lier period. Blueberry shipments over same period – the
Peruvian blueberries are now
to use the football tournament
latest available figures at the time of going to press –
exported to 28 countries worldwide.
grew by 30.7 per cent to US$123m.
Although sendings to the US fell by
to raise the profile of their products.
Peru is investing in new production areas to meet
19.5 per cent in the first nine months
“We have held preliminary talks
growing demand for fresh and processed pomegran-
of 2017, this remained the biggest
ates across the globe.
market, accounting for 38 per cent of
about what kind of actions we could take in the different
“The international market is increasingly consum-
venues where Peru will play,”
ing juices and natural beverages that incorporate pome-
However, the fastest growing
the total, worth US$46.6m.
she says.
granates, which are also in high demand by the food,
markets last year were Hong Kong
Mera notes that Russia is an
pharmaceutical and cosmetics industries because of
(+293 per cent), Spain (+178 per cent),
attractive market for Peruvian
the high level of antioxidants they contain,” says Alfon-
Italy (+117 per cent), Thailand (+71 per
exporters, despite the fact that
so Velásquez of Sierra y Selva Exportadora, the entity
cent) and the Netherlands (+62 per
there is no trade agreement
tasked with encouraging small growers to switch their
cent). China, meanwhile, has become
between the two countries.
production to high value crops for the export market.
Peru’s third biggest market following
Velásquez notes that another reason for the surge in production seen in Peru is that the fruit adapts very well to the local climatic conditions as it can be cultivated on sandy soils and has a high resistance to salt. ABOVE—Improved market access is
benefiting exporters
194
per cent) and other markets.
The bulk of Peru’s pomegranate exports go to Europe, which along with Russia accounts for just over two-thirds
the signing of the phytosanitary protocol at the end of 2016. Blueberries are now Peru’s sixth biggest agricultural export after avocados,
asparagus,
table
grapes,
animal feed and mangoes. _ E
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.194.indd 194
05/12/2017 15:37
Untitled-2 1
06/12/2017 15:05
features
report —Cherries
Chile turbo charges cherry campaign santiago—A steep rise in cherry production means Chile will have to go the extra mile in order to raise consumer demand across China this season. by Maura Maxwell
C
herry
packhouses
in
peak supply. Barring any unfore-
Chile are expected to be
seen climatic events, the 2017/18
running at close to full
export crop is expected to weigh in
capacity this season as produc-
at 160,000 tonnes, or 32m cartons –
ers brace themselves for what is
a 67 per cent increase on last sea-
shaping up to be the biggest crop
son’s 95,000-tonne shipment total
on record. The absence of frosts
and a third more than the original
or heavy rainfall coupled with a
120,000 tonne forecast for 2016/17.
sufficient amount of chill hours
With more than 80 per cent of
and a steady rise in new plantings
this destined for China, increas-
in central and southern regions
ing market penetration will be
has produced a bumper harvest,
a crucial factor in determining
prompting some exporters to ques-
the industry’s profitability over
tion how the Chinese market – the
the coming years. Viewed in this
board advertising at major metro stations and other
main destination for Chilean cher-
light, the US$5m marketing cam-
public spaces, pop-up stores and various co-branding
ries – will cope during weeks of
paign unveiled at last Septem-
initiatives. It is designed to stimulate demand in parts
ber’s Asiafruit Congress, Chile’s
of the country that no previous campaign has reached
most ambitious and far reaching to
until now. But this is only part of the equation. Tagle
date, seems not only justifiable but
acknowledges that logistics and cold chain manage-
imperative.
ment are a weak point that needs to be addressed.
In the bag San Jorge Packaging has become a pioneer in the
While the risk of putting all your
Progress is being made on this front, albeit slowly.
development of Modified
eggs in one basket is not lost on
Faster shipping services to Hong Kong and Shanghai
Atmosphere Packaging (map),
Cristián Tagle, president of the Chil-
introduced ahead of last season now allow companies
helping Chilean fruit producers
ean Cherry Committee, the poten-
to programme arrivals much more accurately and pro-
reach even the most distant
tial rewards are too big to ignore.
vides consumers with fresher and better quality fruit.
export markets. The company
“The opportunities in China are
It also means cherries harvested after Christmas can
offers a full range of packaging
so huge that we have to follow the
still arrive on the market in time for Chinese New Year.
solutions for cherry packers
money,” he tells eurofruit, noting
But central and northern China are still woefully
and today, some 80 per cent of
that even though average returns
underserved in terms of sea services and Tagle con-
China-bound cherry shipments
fell by 8 per cent last season China
cedes that convincing shipping lines to introduce new
from Chile are packed in the
is still twice as profitable as consoli-
services can feel like an uphill struggle. Nevertheless,
dated markets like Europe.
as export volumes of cherries and other fruits like avo-
company’s bags.
The new campaign, which will TOP—Chile launched its new Chinese
for new services will grow.
the Chilean season, features point-
The committee is also looking to make headway in
Congress in Hong Kong
of-sale promotions, social media
other Asian markets, notably South Korea which
ABOVE—The CCC’s Cristián Tagle
and e-commerce activities, bill-
opened in January 2016. _ E
marketing campaign at the Asiafruit
196
run in 48 cities for the duration of
cados and blueberries continue to increase, demand
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.196-197.indd 196
05/12/2017 15:43
features
Interview —Andrés Ruiz, Nature South
Nature South champions bespoke approach
of maturity myself within the industry I felt that now was the right time to capitalise on these changes. What are the main products you’ll be handling? AR: Initially our focus will be on cherries, plums and kiwifruit sourced from growers that share our quality ethos. In total we will export around 60 containers this
curicó—The company forms part of a growing trend for
first season, which will be marketed under the Nature
so-called boutique exporters with an emphasis on quality
South brand.
and service.
Will your primary focus be on the Asian market?
by Maura Maxwell
AR: Yes, our main market is Asia and we are looking to serve commercial channels that value quality. For the first year we will partner with one importer that shares
N
ature South was estab-
in terms of its grower base, product
our vision. Together we will concentrate on building our
lished in August 2017 by
mix and market outlook. Everything
brand and generating customers who value high end products.
Andrés Ruiz, who previ-
is closer in the global marketplace
ously worked at Copefrut and has 15
and information is key. It is clear that
years’ experience in the Chilean fresh
more growers are ready to export
A recent report by Rabobank said Chile needs to do much
fruit industry. Here he outlines what
directly and volume is no longer a
more in terms of varietal development and innovation in
he hopes to achieve in his inaugural
requirement to succeed.
order to protect itself from growing competition. Do you
season and in the longer term.
Many of the fruits we produce
agree with this assessment?
are no longer commodities and marWhy did you decide to set up Nature
kets are showing that they are will-
AR: Absolutely. Given the size of our industry and its
South now and how would you sum-
ing to pay a premium for quality in
importance to the economy, much more emphasis should
marise the philosophy behind the
products such as cherries and blue-
be placed on research and innovation, especially in the
company’s brand?
berries. The industry has matured
development of new varieties. There are some indepen-
and the range of services available
dent initiatives from different players but these lack cohe-
Andrés Ruiz: The Chilean fresh
today makes it easy to export and
sion and coordination.
fruit industry has undergone sever-
focus on the key points of the value
al changes during the last five years
chain. Having reached a certain level
What are your plans for the medium- to long-term development of the company? What are the key projects you’ll be working on in 2018? AR: My immediate objective is to have a good inaugural season and deliver above-average returns to our growers, which will enable us to make concrete plans together for the future. Within the next two or three years I would like to build our own packhouse which would give us greater control over the quality and formats of our products. _ E LEFT & FAR LEFT—
Nature South’s founder Andrés Ruiz says quality, not volume, is the company’s usp
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.196-197.indd 197
197
05/12/2017 15:44
features
report —Blueberries double over the next three years to around 18,000 tonnes. “Our biggest strength is that we farm, pack and ship the fruit ourselves, which gives us complete control over the entire process and guarantees retailers a consistent and uniform year-round supply of premium blueberries,” Ozer says. Escaping the commoditisation trap has become a priority for blueberry exporters as global acreage continues to climb. With worldwide production set to exceed 900,000 tonnes by 2021 according to International Blueberry Organization forecasts, quality will be the critical factor in driving new consumer demand. “The market is maturing, and with higher volume comes lower
Carsol takes the long view
prices, which is why differentiation ing of its second European division,
is becoming increasingly impor-
Carsol Berries Ibérica, in Valencia.
tant,” says Carrasco.
Horacio Ozer Ami, general man-
“Fortunately, the nutritional ben-
ager of Carsol Europe, says the
efits and snacking potential of fresh
company already offers a seam-
blueberries chime perfectly with
santiago—The Chilean company is inching
less supply of fresh blueberries
today’s lifestyles. They are as popu-
closer to its goal of being a year-round
throughout the year by supple-
lar with young, health-conscious
menting its own production with
consumers as with older people
that of long-term partners in Argen-
looking for softer fruits which are
tina, Uruguay, Peru, Europe and
easier to eat.” _ E
producer of premium blueberries. by Maura Maxwell
Morocco and it is now working on providing its own-grown blueberries on a year-round basis.
R
etail requirements for consistent, year-round
Thanks to the new Peruvian ven-
supply is reshaping the blueberry sector and
ture the company’s output is set to
ABOVE & BELOW—The Carsol team at the
Fruit Attraction trade fair in Madrid
leading to the emergence of a handful of com-
panies with sufficient scale and reach to be able to guarantee premium quality fruit for 52 weeks of the year. One such company is Chile’s Carsol, which moved a step closer towards its goal of supplying own-grown blueberries throughout the year with the creation of Carsol Peru in August 2017. The acquisition of 500ha of land in Piura is set to significantly boost the company’s export volume and extend its supply window. Founded by Pedro Carrasco almost 30 years ago, Chillán-based Carsol was one of the pioneers of Chilean blueberry production. From the outset, its main focus has been on the European market. In 2013 it established Carsol Europe in Rotterdam to serve its rapidly expanding European customer base and this was followed three years later by the open-
198
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.198-199.indd 198
08/12/2017 16:18
features
report —Colombia
Pacific Fruits breaks new ground
ABOVE—Pacific Fruits is a young
company with global ambitions
cali—The company is setting the pace in Colombia’s race to reach new markets with its Hass avocados.
working with the Colombian government to open new markets,” Ahumada says.
by Maura Maxwell
He anticipates that Europe will continue to be the leading destination for Colombian avocados for the next three or four years, followed by the US.
acific Fruits has car-
ers in 2017. The company is now
“When it comes to Asia, it all depends on the level
ried out Colombia’s first
looking to reach new markets and
of risk that exporters want to assume given the
ever shipment of Hass
diversify into new product lines,
uncertainties over the transit time and cultural dif-
avocados to the Middle East. The
such as Tahiti limes and pineap-
ferences. But if our company can do it then I believe
consignment was sent in early
ples. “Our inaugural season was
that anyone willing to put in the effort and do a good
November in order to arrive in
a steep learning curve as we had
job can succeed.”
Dubai on 5 December ahead of
to quickly get up to speed on pro-
Pacific Fruits currently has 200ha of avocado pro-
wop Dubai, the Middle East’s big-
duction and quality issues and
duction in Antioquia plus 100ha in Valle del Cauca,
gest trade fair for the fresh pro-
establish reliable and trustworthy
and it is looking to develop a further 200ha in the
duce industry.
relationships with national suppli-
south of the country.
P
“The Middle East is a new
ers and overseas customers,” Ahu-
“We are the only company in Colombia with a pres-
market for Colombian avocados
mada tells eurofruit. “The fact
ence in more than 12 avocado-growing departments,
and one we have worked very hard
that we managed to ship 96 con-
not just as a buyer but as a strategic partner to small
to develop,” says Pacific Fruits’
tainers represents a huge achieve-
and medium-sized producers,” says Ahumada.
commercial director Rodolfo Ahu-
ment and has laid the foundations
mada. “Dubai is an interesting
for future successful seasons.”
Altogether, the company works with more than 250 producers who between them cultivate around
market in terms of prices and has
As well as pioneering Colom-
1,200ha.
a preference for medium to large-
bian avocado exports to Dubai,
Ahumada believes a can-do flexible approach will
sized fruit.”
Pacific Fruits was one of the first
stand Colombian exporters in good stead as they seek to build their presence on the international market.
For such a young company,
companies to ship this product
Pacific Fruits has big ambitions.
to Hong Kong and it will shortly
“In a globalised world you have to be able to reach
From making its first avocado
carry out its inaugural shipment
all possible markets because you never know when
shipment to Europe in 2016, Ahu-
to Singapore. “Our goal is to reach
situations are going to change unexpectedly. Some-
mada says export volumes have
those markets to which we already
times, it is the most unlikely countries that end up
grown to a projected 300 contain-
have access while at the same time
being the most thriving markets,” he observes. _ E
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.198-199.indd 199
199
08/12/2017 16:18
features
report —Frutafino
BOTTOM—Frutafino’s managing director Fernando Fraiz
Frutafino fires up export ambitions
avocados, Honey Gold pineapples and Persian limes.
BELOW—Pineapples will be one of its first export lines
Frutafino’s initial focus will be on three products: Hass These will be sourced from more than 300 small and medium producers in western Colombia’s Cauca Valley, an area known for its fertile soils and excellent transport
bogotá—One of Colombia’s leading fruit and vegetable
links. “This will give us a year-round supply of fruit and
importers is now looking to grab a slice of the country’s
allow us to control the entire production process – which
burgeoning export trade.
is crucial to maintaining quality,” Fraiz explains. The first exports are likely to be pineapples for the Chilean market and avocados for the Chinese market,
by Maura Maxwell
whose opening is said to be imminent. Once exports of these products are up and running Frutafino will look at adding lines such as papaya, guava, passion fruit and lulo.
C
olombia’s emergence as a
the opportunities created by the
new force in Latin Amer-
country’s recent export boom.
come some major obstacles on its journey to export
ican horticulture is fuel-
Frutafino has been importing and
growth. “One of the problems we face is that access to
ling a wave of investment in the
distributing fresh and canned fruit
markets such as the US and Asia is still limited, although
country from some of the leading
in Colombia and the Latin Ameri-
the situation is improving, as can be seen by our recent
players in the international produce
can region for more than 50 years
entry into the US avocado market,” he says.
industry. One company, however, is
and has built up an efficient logistics
Another potential barrier is the country’s lack of a
better positioned than most to seize
and distribution network supplying
proper cold chain infrastructure in many regions. To
the country’s major supermarkets
solve this problem the company has decided to build its
and small specialist stores alike. As
own cold chain network, at the heart of which will be an
well as being the exclusive Colombi-
agro-industrial complex housing the biggest distribution
an distributor for Dole and Del Mon-
centre for fresh and frozen products in Colombia, as well
te’s canned businesses, the company
as a packhouse and processing facility for the manufac-
handles produce from Chile, Argen-
ture of tinned fruit and juices.
tina, Peru and Europe. “We wanted to strike while the iron is hot,” says managing director
200
Fraiz acknowledges that Colombia still has to over-
“The project is already up and running and we hope to make this dream a reality in a short space of time,” says Fraiz.
Fernando Fraiz, explaining the com-
The scale of investment required for such an ambi-
pany’s recent decision to move into
tious venture bears testament to the company’s belief
production and exports.
in Colombia’s export future. “Wherever there is a
“We’re looking to build strategic
market opportunity you will find Frutafino,” Fraiz
alliances with producers in order to
agrees. “Colombia is about to burst onto the world stage
reach markets such as Chile and the
thanks to the quality, variety and volume of its fresh
US, where we seen excellent oppor-
fruit offer and we want to be involved in every step of
tunities for Colombian fruit.”
this exciting journey.” _ E
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.200.indd 200
05/12/2017 15:48
Untitled-1 1
07/12/2017 09:39
features
report —Avocados
World wakes up to Colombian Hass potential bogotá—Colombia’s avocado industry is receiving growing interest from US-based companies as they begin to understand the long-term potential of this exciting new origin. by Maura Maxwell
he US has become the
have led Mexico in recent months
latest market to grasp
to not only rethink its existing
oped
the potential of Colom-
free trade agreement with the
there are plenty of regular and
bia’s burgeoning avocado indus-
European Union (the world’s sec-
reliable shipping services from the
try. Last November the Port of
ond-largest avocado market), but
Atlantic and Pacific coasts that
Long Beach in California took
also to seriously pursue trade
can properly serve both eastern
delivery of its first ever container
ties with China, whose growing
and western US markets within
of Colombia-grown Hass avoca-
middle class is demonstrating a
very short transit times.
dos, destined for the fresh produce
similar propensity for ‘avoddic-
aisles of US retailer Walmart.
tion’.
T
202
Due to Colombia’s well develbanana
export
industry
Sustainable supply chain commitments
While the average consum-
With drought-stricken Califor-
er will give little thought to this
nia unable to cover any potential
“Securing
fruit’s 3,752-mile journey – from
supply shortfalls, retailers will
supply of quality fresh avocados
Cartagena Port in the Caribbean,
be looking to other origins like
through the year and especially
through the Panama Canal and
Peru, Chile and the Dominican
at times of high demand is of sig-
up the North Pacific coast past
Republic to close any gaps. Now
nificant importance to our retail
Mexico – the provenance of this
Colombia can be added to that
customers,” says Julián Muñoz,
ever-popular superfood is never-
list. Possessing key advantages
vice president of sourcing at West-
theless significant for US consum-
such as proximity to the market,
falia Fruit usa. The operation,
ers and retailers alike.
its ability to produce during at
headquartered in Camarillo, Cali-
According to the Hass Avocado
least ten months of the year and
fornia, will receive and check the
Board, the US currently relies on
its well-established transport and
fruit at partner facilities in Fill-
neighbouring Mexico for around
logistics links, it is sure to become
more Piru before packing it for
82 per cent of its avocado supply.
an increasingly important player
retail stores. Ripening services are
But tough nafta talks with the US
in the US in the years ahead.
also being added to the mix.
an
uninterrupted
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.202-203.indd 202
05/12/2017 15:51
features
Building an export business
“With the opening of the US market, the industry is expected to reach 30,000ha within the next four to five years”
Rapid expansion of Colombian production capacity
Such has been the level of interest shown in
The benefits of such positive
Colombian avocados that family-run Aguahass is
developments are likely to be felt
struggling to keep up with demand. Commercial
by the entire Colombian avocado
director Juliana Flórez says she would like to be able
industry, whose Hass exports are
to offer customers more but it will be three years
expected to reach US$60m fob
before new plantings mature.
value by December this year. Pro-
“The last two editions of Fruit Logistica served as
ducers are demonstrating their
a launch pad for our avocado exports, providing the
faith in the industry’s future by
opportunity to get to know buyers personally and
planting more trees; production
sound out the market in terms of volumes, sizes and
spans
prices,” she tells eurofruit.
approximately
16,000ha
and is growing at a rate of 15 per cent, or 2,000ha a year.
Since carrying its first exports in 2016 the company has been fine-tuning its production and handling
Most large retail groups have
“With the opening up of the
processes, resulting in better yields. “We achieved
high expectations of their sup-
US market, it is expected that
a good harvest last year and expect to see a bigger
pliers and associated facilities in
the industry will grow up to
increase in 2018 thanks to the introduction of new crop
terms of their social and environ-
30,000ha within the next four to
and soil management techniques,” Flórez explains.
mental sustainability, and conduct
five years,” predicts Pedro Agui-
Notably, fruit sizing has improved, with a greater
regular audits and investigations
lar, general manager of Westsole
abundance of counts 16-18 and 20 which fetch a better
into supply chain conditions.
Fruit Colombia (wfc), adding that
price in the market. Overall, says Flórez, the proportion
“A sustainable food supply
foreign investment in new grow-
of exportable fruit has risen considerably.
chain gives consumers transpar-
ing regions is also on the rise,
The company’s goals for the coming year is to
ency into how their produce is
with orchards being established
continue to improve its processes while providing an
grown, which is another impor-
even in areas previously affected
important source of employment and sustainable
tant factor in the retail sector
by the war on drugs.
agriculture in the region of Armenia where its two
today,” Muñoz adds. “While we
From a socio-economic per-
play a crucial role in providing
spective, the Colombian avocado
supply security to our customers,
industry creates close on 26,000
we are also tasked with working
permanent jobs in rural areas,
continuously towards reducing
and during harvest times this
the environmental impact of our
figure can double. Aguilar points
agricultural practices”.
out that as part of the Westfa-
These are areas in which many
lia Fruit Group, wfc has since its
Colombian avocado suppliers are
inception upheld the multina-
beginning to make their mark
tional’s values of sustainability,
and the number of farms and
integrity and inclusivity.
farms are located.
packhouses with Globalgap certi-
It actively supports and trains
regions, sets up schools and clin-
fication is growing week by week.
small-scale farmers in developing
ics in impoverished areas, and builds much-needed infrastructure that improves the lives of rural communities. on the lookout for opportunities in new markets Aguilar notes that it is important not to overextend oneself. “wfc is always conwith
fulfilling
Colombia has 16,000ha of avocado production and
While the company is always
cerned
OPPOSITE—
and
respecting commercial commit-
this is growing year by year LEFT—The
Westfalia team celebrates the inaugural shipment to the US market
ments with our existing importers, and there is no doubt that our avocados require technical preparation before serving long distance markets,” he says. _ E
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.202-203.indd 203
203
05/12/2017 15:51
features
report —Costa Rica
Costa Rica pins hopes on China’s pineapple intake Costa Rican pineapple suppliers could face major oversupply if the anticipated demand from China turns out to be less than expected. The Chinese market opened for Costa Rican pineapples last year and there are already significant volumes being sent to Asia, according to Jai Thakrar, president of family-run exporter Jalaram Fruit, with new plantings in the ground to prepare for further growth. “Pineapple is a middle class product, it’s not a commodity. When the economy starts moving, people start buying pineapples and spending more on luxury items,” says Thakrar, pictured below, right,
Costa Rica showcases culinary credentials
with his siblings. China’s burgeoning middle class and rapid population growth is one of the reasons it is an attractive market for many exporters. “If China doesn’t consume as much as we expect we’re going to
san josé—The versatility of the country’s fruits and vegetables as ingredients in fusion dishes will once again be at the core of Procomer’s marketing campaigns this year.
have a huge oversupply,” Thakrar continues. Jalaram Fruit specialises in crownless pineapples and
by Maura Maxwell
sees particular growth potential in the Central and Eastern European markets, as well as Asia, he said. Crownless pineapples are typically sent to processors and destined for the fresh-cut market. Pineapple for the fresh-cut market have stricter
Rican products through the creation
Fruit Logistica has grown
of fusion recipes and show-cooking
year on year and the nov-
displays, building on the success of
aesthetic requirements, explains Thakrar, as every
elty in 2018 is the addition of a new
similar promotions in 2017.
blemish can be seen once it is sliced. Varietal
product, sweet potato, to its fresh
In Spain, for example, the agency
development is focused on sweetness, something
line-up. The orange-fleshed Beau-
joined forces with leading marketer
that is also favoured by the Chinese market.
regard variety will take its place in
Eurobanan in a gastronomy compe-
Based in Costa Rica, the US and with an office at New
Berlin alongside established prod-
tition inviting consumers to submit
Spitalfields Market in the UK, Jalaram Fruit exhibited
ucts like pineapples, bananas, yucca
recipe ideas featuring Costa Rican
at the Amsterdam Produce Show last year, where it
and squash, reflecting the country’s
products such as mango, pineapple,
was “representing Costa Rica as a brand” as well as
growing presence in the European
papaya, cassava, rambutan, ginger,
market.
sugar cane and squash. The creators
meeting new and existing business contacts.
204
C
osta Rica’s participation in
According to Jorge Zamora, direc-
of the six overall winning entries
tor of trade promotion agency Pro-
– judged by a professional panel
comer, these lines are spearheading
– were invited to a gala evening in
Costa Rica’s export growth. “Pine-
Madrid, at which one finalist won a
apples, bananas and yucca are our
holiday to Costa Rica.
three biggest export items in value
Zamora says that the coming
terms and all three continue to make
year will also see a push into new
inroads in international markets,
markets such as Poland, the Czech
with sales increasing by 9 per cent, 18
Republic and Hungary which Costa
per cent and 11 per cent respectively
Rica does not yet supply directly. “We
in 2016 and are on course to achieve
are also looking to exploit new distri-
similar growth in 2017,” he says.
bution channels such as the foodser-
A key strand of Procomer’s mar-
vice and food ingredients sectors, in
keting campaigns over the coming
which we believe there is huge
ABOVE RIGHT—The Esencial Costa Rica brand underpins the
year will be to once again promote
untapped potential for our prod-
country’s fruit marketing strategy
the culinary versatility of Costa
ucts,” he states. _ E
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.204.indd 204
05/12/2017 15:51
Untitled-1 1
08/12/2017 14:22
features
report —Brazil
T
he Brazilian government has launched an ambitious programme to stim-
ulate the country’s fruit exports and exploit new opportunities in high value markets. The Brazilian Fruit Development Plan (bfdp) will
Brazil unveils fruit stimulus package
look at research and development, production systems, plant health, infrastructure and logistics, marketing, credit and risk mitigation and several other key areas in a bid to
206
ness. “Brazil is the third biggest fruit producer in the world but ranks 23rd in terms of exports,” he tells eurofruit. “Nevertheless, export volumes are growing – the latest data shows a rise of 11 per cent for the ten months to October 2017.”
brasilia—The country is hoping to turbo charge fruit exports with the new Brazilian Fruit Development Plan.
unlock the country’s export potential.
terms of improving its competitive-
With the creation of Abrafrutas has come a much greater emphasis on promotion, spearheaded by the launch of the Frutas do Brasil brand by Abrafrutas and trade promo-
by Maura Maxwell
tion agency Apex-Brasil in 2015. The
The plan, which was due to be
two bodies were due to renew their
unveiled in January, is a joint initia-
agreement for the next two years in
tive from the Agriculture Ministry
step involves setting up a management committee, then
December, marking the next phase
and the country’s leading producers
it comes down to prioritising specific actions for each
in the brand’s international develop-
of fresh and processed fruits and is
product category and geographical region.”
ment.
being overseen by Eumar Novacki,
Da Cunha points out that Brazil has huge potential to
“We’re putting together a number
executive secretary at the minis-
develop a wide range of products in different parts of the
of actions including point-of-sale
try, and Luiz Barcelos, president of
country. “The north, for example, is known for its pro-
promotions in supermarkets and
producer and exporter association
duction of acai berries but there is also an opportunity
specialist fruit stores highlight-
Abrafrutas.
to develop other, lesser-know Amazonian fruits such as
ing the tropical origins of Brazil-
“The plan will provide the polit-
cupuaçu, murici and acerola, while areas such as the São
ian fruit,” he says. “The focus will be
ical framework and initial analy-
Francisco and Açcu Valleys have considerable potential
on educating consumers about the
sis from which the industry can go
when it comes to the production and export of mangoes,
quality and sustainability of fruit
on to develop projects on a case-
grapes, melons, as well as wide range of tropical fruits
grown in a tropical country where
by-case basis,’ explains Ricardo da
like guava, soursop and cashew.
the sun is our biggest ally.”
Cunha Cavalcanti Júnior, advisor
Indeed, while Brazil is a global leader in agri-exports,
to the executive secretariat of the
it punches well below its weight when it comes to fruit
is looking to attract more foreign
Meanwhile,
the
government
Ministry of Agriculture. “The first
and Barcelos acknowledges that it has a long way to go in
investment to fund investment in
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.206-207.indd 206
05/12/2017 15:54
features
Bright outlook For Agricola Famosa Brazil’s 2017/18 melon campaign has got off to a promising start according to the country’s biggest exporter. Luiz Roberto Barcelos, founder and director of Agricola Famosa, says the fall in acreage due to the ongoing drought together with the early end to the Spanish season, has resulted in much better prices on the European market. Such is the severity of the drought that the company has had to increase the depth of the wells that feed its farms in order to maintain its melon acreage this season. “This not only entails the cost of deepening the wells but also means it is more expensive to pump the water,” says Barcelos, pictured below. Brazil’s melon season runs from the end of August to the beginning of March, but shippers tend to be at the mercy of the weather during the latter stages of the season and the rains can have a major effect on supply. “Last season we had less rainfall in our main production area in the north east of Brazil during March and April and this enabled us to extend our export window,” says Barcelos. “Prices were generally good as this is a period of low supply in Europe – unlike OPPOSITE & THIS PAGE—In spite of its
the September to December window when Spanish
potential, Brazil’s fruit industry lags a
melons are still available and the cold weather tends
long way behind other Latin American
to reduce demand.” This year Agricola Famosa will
suppliers in terms of competitiveness
achieve Rainforest Alliance certification for all of its farms, demonstrating, says Barcelos, the company’s firm commitment to sustainable production. The company has also invested in extra coldstorage
grapes to South Korea, but there is so
capacity and new sorting machinery at its main
much more to do,” Barcelos acknowl-
packhouses. It is also rolling out new varieties such
edges. “China in particular is a prior-
as its innovative Dino and Meluna which are finding
ity. We are getting a lot of help from
favour with consumers across Europe.
the agriculture ministry but these things take time.” Progress on free trade agree-
Elsewhere, Agricola Famosa is working hard to diversify its export markets, adding Russia and the uae to its growing list of destinations. In Asia, negotiations
ments has been even slower, and
to secure access to the Chinese market are in their
Barcelos admits this is hampering
final stages. In return, China is seeking approval to
ports and roads after identifying
trade. “We are in the process of nego-
export pears to Brazil. In both cases the plant health
inadequate infrastructure as one
tiating a deal with the European
authorities have completed a pest risk analysis and
of the biggest obstacles to agricul-
Union, but its scope is so wide that
are about to embark on the process to establish the
tural expansion as part of a more
it is proving challenging. Neverthe-
phytosanitary requirements before shipments can get
open trade policy that is also seek-
less, we hope to have a deal in place
underway.
ing wider market access for Brazilian
shortly as this would reduce the tar-
products.
iffs on Brazilian fruit by an average
When it comes to opening new markets
and
negotiating
of 10 per cent.”
trade
Meanwhile, Brazil will once again
agreements Brazil lags well behind
increase its presence at this year’s
South American competitors like
Fruit Logistica. It has extended its
Chile and Peru, and successes have
pavilion by 100m2 and increased the
been frustratingly slow to arrive. “In
number of companies that will
Asia we can now ship melons and
exhibit at the fair, which at the time
avocados to Japan, as well as table
of going to press stood at 18. _ E
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.206-207.indd 207
207
05/12/2017 15:54
features
interview —Gloria Polanco, Frutesa
Frutesa unleashes avocado potential mixco—In joining forces with Mission Produce, the company has a ready made route to market and a wealth of technical expertise at its disposal, says founder and president Gloria Polanco. by Maura Maxwell
Do you already have the distribu-
on growing. Guatemala is also tradi-
tion channels in place to be able to
tionally a big consumer of avocados
supply the market?
and until recently the fruit was cultivated mainly for the local market
GP: We have signed a strategic alliance with Mission Produce, one of
H
since domestic prices are high. However,
exports
are
now
the leading global avocado market-
being developed in response to the
ers, which has just entered Guate-
increase in international demand
mala’s avocado industry. We will
and prices. Because we have estab-
pack both our own avocados and
lished, well-managed plantations
Mission’s as its new plantings estab-
producing fruit that adheres to the
ow are moves to diversify your product
lish themselves and export volumes
high quality standards and certifi-
range progressing? What new develop-
grow. It is reassuring that Mission
cations required by the market, we
ments will you be presenting at Fruit Logis-
Produce, which is such a strong pres-
expect to see significant growth in
ence in the global avocado market,
exports over the coming years.
tica 2018 in this respect?
shares the same vision for GuatemaGloria Polanco: The big news is that our avocado
la’s avocado industry as us, and the
Moving away from avocados, how
programme is now up and running at our new facil-
fact that they are giving us access to
is the current mange tout and sugar
ity in Santo Tomás Milpas Altas, where in addition
their vast know-how means we are
snap pea season developing?
to a new packing line we have built new coldstores
learning from true masters.
adapted specifically for the storage and handling of
Guatemalan avocados do not cur-
GP: We had a very intense rainy
avocados. Although we exported limited volumes
rently have access to the US, so our
season, with 300 per cent more
in October, the first year was really all about get-
focus for now is on the European
rainfall than we would receive in a
ting the plant up and running and obtaining Global-
market, where our long-established
normal season, and this damaged
gap accreditation for our plantations. What I can say
mange tout and sugar snap pea cus-
fields and affected planting sched-
is that the quality and flavour of our avocados are
tomers are really excited about the
ules, delaying the start of the season.
excellent and we’re seeing huge demand among our
prospect of receiving our avocados.
As a result we have been unable to
European customers.
We’re also exploring the possibili-
sell the usual volumes in November.
ty of shipping to Canada and Asia,
The weather has improved in recent
where consumption is on the rise.
days and some plantations have
Are avocados well suited to the climatic and geographic conditions in Guatemala?
begun to recover, but others have How do you see the prospects
GP: The Hass avocado is extremely well adapted to
for Guatemalan avocados in the
this country since it originated from native varieties.
medium and long term?
The temperate climate in the mountainous areas is
208
been totally lost. We expect the outlook to improve in 2018 and hope our sales will gather pace since we have more than dou-
ideal for its cultivation. I always say that God plant-
GP: Globally, avocado consump-
bled our processing capacity in the
ed avocados in Guatemala, so there is no better cli-
tion has increased dramatically in
new plant and are prepared for rapid
mate than ours in which to cultivate them.
recent years and is expected to keep
growth.
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.208-209.indd 208
05/12/2017 16:11
features
Cuasa branches out Located in the Choluteca region of Honduras, Cuasa is one of the country’s leading growers and exporters of fresh okra, supplying the North American and European markets year-round with American and Indian varieties. Last year it decided to expand its offer, initially adding peppers to its mix and, more recently courgettes and yellow squash. “We carried out our first pepper shipments to the US in 2017 and are looking to increase our production by around 10 per cent this year,” says marketing manager Abril Flores. “With regards to our newest products, we hope to successfully introduce them into the market this year and then expand our production according to market demand.” The company’s okra production is also set to increase by around 20 per cent in the coming year. “We achieved our best-ever results in Europe in 2017 as it was the first year that we were able to supply the market year-round and on the back of this we hope to be able to introduce our new products into the market and find further opportunities for growth,” Flores says.
How would you sum up the company’s performance
Finally, what plans do you have for
generally over the past year?
2018? What are the main projects you will be working on?
GP: Although 2017 has not been a year of spectacular growth, it hasn’t been too bad either. Europe
GP: The next challenge is to get to
is a stable market with relatively few ups and
know the Asian market. As Guate-
downs and few surprises. European consumers
mala borders both the Atlantic and
have long been concerned about eating healthy
Pacific coastlines we are ideally
food and with the growing popularity of avoca-
located to serve both the European
dos and their intrinsic health benefits, we expect
and Asian markets and in a few
this to be the main engine of our growth in
years we hope to have established
Europe in the coming year. We have also seen an
good commercial relationships with
increase in rambutan exports to Europe recently.
Asian importers. _ E
OPPOSITE—Frutesa has signed a strategic
alliance with Mission Produce to distribute its avocados LEFT & ABOVE LEFT—The company has
doubled capacity at its new facility
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.208-209.indd 209
209
05/12/2017 16:11
features
report —Mexico
Coliman outlines global ambitions
Desert Farms adds organic asparagus to its line-up Mexican asparagus producer Desert Farms has launched a
colima—The company’s bananas and avocados are reaching more markets than ever before.
new line of organic asparagus. “Desert Farms is proud to announce the expansion of our fields, implementing organic asparagus as part of our product range,” says ceo Bram Hulshoff.
by Maura Maxwell
The new fields, located in Caborca Sonora, went into production in January 2018 and the harvest will run through to April. The project started last year with the preparation of the soil, and the planting of the seeds. This year will be the first harvest of the usda certified fresh green asparagus, grown, packed and exported by the Desert Farms Group. Desert Farms is the commercial arm of Caborcabased Hortícola Del Desierto, which has around 1,500ha of production, yielding just over 9,000 tonnes of packed product during the season.
G
rupo Coliman’s organic
ic and conventional bananas in Europe, Asia, New Zea-
bananas
Around 65 per cent of the
making
land and the Middle East,” explains Coliman’s ceo Jorge
company’s sales are to the US
inroads in new markets
Angel Aguilar. “In Asia, in particular, we think there is
and Canada, with the rest being
such as Russia and Japan as its
huge potential to increase consumption of organic banan-
exported to Europe and Asia.
diversification strategy continues
as. In the past year alone our sales in Japan have grown
to bear fruit.
by almost 50 per cent and we expect to see similar growth
prides itself on its strong
in 2018.”
commitment to sustainable
are
The company saw a 58 per cent
Hulshoff says the company
production and the welfare of
increase in its organic banana pro-
Although the potential for growth in the Europe-
duction last year and volumes are
an banana market is more limited, Aguilar nevertheless
its employees. The company
set to grow by a further 32 per cent
believes that there is an opportunity for Mexico to dif-
has made a number of key
in 2018 as the final phase of an ambi-
ferentiate its offer by focusing on organic and Fairtrade /
investments this year to make
tious expansion plan launched two
Rainforest Alliance certified bananas.
its green asparagus even
years ago comes to fruition.
Meanwhile, the company has been increasing its ship-
Coliman’s joint venture with the
ments of avocados to Japan in a bid to offset the down-
UK’s Allfresch Group has been a key
turn it has seen in the Chinese market due to strengthening
factor in its international growth
competition. “Mexican avocados are subject to a fairly
over the past year. “The creation of
high tariff which has seen us lose some of our market
Coliman Allfresch has allowed us to
share to Chile and others,” Aguilar explains. _ E
‘greener’.
streamline our global distribution
210
network, opening new doors and
ABOVE—Coliman’s joint venture with the UK’s Allfresch Group
enabling us to position our organ-
has been a springboard for growth
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.210.indd 210
05/12/2017 16:00
Untitled-1 1
05/12/2017 13:34
features
report —Ecuador
Ginafruit sees blue skies ahead guayaquil—The company is anticipating increased sales across all of its main markets in 2018, says Hugo Castro. by Maura Maxwell
G
inafruit hopes
has for
the
high Euro-
year on year as Ecuador’s reputation as a premium
ducers. “For a business to work it
supplier continues to strengthen.
has to benefit both sides,” says
pean banana market in
Meanwhile, the evolution of the Russian market
Castro. “With a long-term con-
2018. With Ecuadorean bananas
has seen a growing number of retailers turning
tract you know what volumes and
becoming more competitive fol-
their back on the spot market in favour of annual
prices you are facing at specific
lowing
reductions
contracts, with many bypassing importers altogeth-
times of the year. This gives the
stemming from the country’s
er in order to source directly from Ecuadorean pro-
grower a clearer idea of what
the
tariff
new trade agreement with the European Union, the company’s general manager Hugo Castro
investments they need to make in
Stronger presence for Ecuador at Fruit Logistica
believes it is only a matter of
their farms, while the importer has a more accurate idea of what they will receive and can pro-
time before the Ecuador recovers
Ecuador’s trade promotion agency ProEcuador will
the market share it has lost to its
have its own stand for the first time at the 2018
gramme sales accordingly.” _ E
edition of Fruit Logistica. Apart from the country
competitors. “We’ve already seen a 5 per
pavilion organised by Corpei, ProEcuador’s stand
cent rise in shipments to Europe
will showcase five banana companies and three
Special delivery
since the tariff came down and
exotic fruit companies. The move is part of a
by 2018 we’ll be on a level play-
government strategy to raise the country’s profile as
bananas and plantains for more
ing field with other suppliers so
a supplier of a wide range of fruits and vegetables
than 30 years and its Ecuasabor,
we expect to see a big improve-
that have been produced sustainably and meet
ment in our performance,” he tells
the quality standards required by even the most demanding markets.
eurofruit. And, says, Castro, this positive
ProEcuador has a full agenda of promotional
outlook extends to other mar-
activities lined up for 2018, which will be planned
kets. New direct shipping ser-
and executed through its extensive network of
vices serving the Middle East
international commercial offices.
Agzulasa has been growing
Akebana and Kassandra brands are sold in markets across Europe, the Middle East and Asia. The family-owned company is also a regular exhibitor at Fruit Logistica. This year it is showcasing the three
has allowed the company it to
latest additions to its export
increase sendings to countries
portfolio: green bananas, baby
like Saudi Arabia, the uae, Iran,
bananas and red bananas, part
Oman and Qatar.
of its strategy to introduce more
Similarly,
Ginafruit’s
Asian
programmes have been growing
high-value, specialist products alongside its conventional banana offering. “We’re already exporting these new lines to China, South Korea and Argentina and hope
212
TOP—Ecuador expects to claw back
to launch them on the European
market share in Europe
market,” says Marianela Ubilla.
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.212.indd 212
05/12/2017 16:47
SAVE MONEY
7 I 8 June 2018 - Hamburg, Germany
Early Bird Rate*
€395 (€495 including get-together)
Normal rates €495 and €595
The top event for the European convenience sector
*Early Bird Rate valid until 20.4.2018
• One day conference and evening
get-together (in cooperation with the DFHV annual conference) Sponsoring opportunities to suit all budgets
•
Networking. Information. Strategies for success.
ORGANISED BY
ECF DIN A4.indd 1
IN COOPERATION WITH
18/09/17 13:05
features
review —PMA Summit review
New ideas in New Orleans
being a great product is not enough.
exhibitors from nearly 30 countries
We need to have a meaningful role
and attendees drawn from more
in consumers’ lives. We must have
than 60 countries, taking place
a powerful resonating voice in con-
under
versations where trends and cul-
Together. The show floor saw more
ture are being set.
than 70 first-time exhibitors, drawn
the
banner
Let’s
Grow
“If we are supposed to be half
from all corners of the supply chain
the plate, we should be half the con-
– from growers and shippers to
versation.” Burns added. “Ultimate-
packaging and technology compa-
ly out opportunity as an industry
nies and logistics organisations. See
is to leverage our health halo while
the opposite page for some of the
we reframe, repackage and repo-
most interesting stories coming out
Grow Together’ theme reflected in focus on
sition produce to meet consumer
of the event. _ E
unity, analysis and technology in State of
needs in more demand spaces and
new orleans—pma Fresh Summit’s ‘Let’s
the Industry address.
meal occasions.” Show floor
by Carl Collen
The Fresh Summit expo was a truly global affair, with more than 1,000
T
BELOW—Cathy Burns delivers her State
of the Industry address BOTTOM—More than 1,000 exhibitors
from nearly 30 countries were present in New Orleans
he 2017 Produce Marketing Association (pma) Fresh Summit took place at the Ernest Morial Convention Centre last November, and while
many were very much focused on the present with the products and services they were presenting, the industry as a whole was urged to look to the future as well. In her annual State of the Industry address, pma chief executive Cathy Burns challenged the fresh produce industry to take a close look at the trends and technologies that will shape the fresh produce business in the coming years. “How are you using technology to meet consumers where they are?” she questioned of delegates. “And whether high-tech or high-touch, how are you taking steps to ensure your customers have exceptional experiences with your business? Does your people strategy provide talent with exceptional experiences to grow and make a positive impact on our industry?” In addition to identifying technology, consumer and talent trends as the things that will shape the business moving forward, Burns also stressed that working together is key to future success. “I believe our greatest strength is turning the global produce and floral supply chains into an interconnected community of people and ideas, because when you think about it, ideas and insights are as much a part of the value of connections as people.” Looking at current trends, Burns said that fresh produce connected consumers in a way other products failed to do, and called on the business to embrace marketing that went beyond advertising and sales – highlighting aspects like analysis, research, consumer understanding, business strategy, cultural exploration, benchmarking, innovation and creativity. “We have an opportunity in front of us,” she continued. “Our products are white hot in culture now. But
214
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.214-215.indd 214
05/12/2017 16:52
features
Rijk Zwaan debuted its Beach melon concept, which includes the new Cayucos Beach RZ variety. These Cantaloupe varieties are said to have a unique combination of taste and shelf life, opening up opportunities in the US for growers, retailers and foodservice companies. The Beach varieties Cayucos Beach RZ and Santa Monica Beach RZ are an ‘excellent alternative’ to traditional Cantaloupes, the group said.
Angelica Vera of Global Agricultural Trading (gat) highlighted the growing demand for Colombian-grown Pithaya and Physalis – or Dragon Fruit and Goldenberries – in the US market. “There is lots of interest in importing these fruits,” said Angelica Vera of gat. “Goldenberries are well established in Europe but are new for the US. We expect high popularity due to the sweetness and health benefits, like high levels of fibre.”
Sorting and packing leader Compac, part of the Tomra group, had plenty to shout about in New Orleans this year, showcasing technology such as its End View cherry grading solution and unveiling Inspectra2, its new internal inspection system for fresh produce. “Inspectra2 is designed for flexible application, capable of measuring properties such as brix, dry matter and internal defects,” said the group’s Dave Welsh.
Sunkist kicked off its 125th citrus season at the pma Fresh Summit, showcasing the organisation’s citrus programmes. “Sunkist is proud to commemorate its 125year history at pma Fresh Summit because we share this milestone with the entire produce industry,” said Joan Wickham, Sunkist director of communications.
Freshness from Europe presented a coordinated image at pma that highlighted the seasonal products with the biggest role in Italian exports to the US, namely apples, pears, kiwifruit, grapes and plums. There was also a strong emphasis on organic produce, an area where Italy is the European leader.
Emerson unveiled a new consolidated brand for its temperature tracker and logger product lines. Go Real-Time Trackers, formerly marketed by Locus Traxx, and Go Loggers, formerly marketed by PakSense, are now included in a full Emersonbranded suite of solutions that monitor and protect perishable goods in the supply chain.
Dole rolled out new salad bag graphics designed to make it easier for millions of salad buyers to select which of the 47 Dole Salads is right for them, as part of a nationwide trend toward healthier eating and increased consumption of fresh fruits, vegetables and salads. “Our salad bag redesign is the most comprehensive effort by Dole to rethink the packaged salad category in close to a decade, and is being driven both by consumer demand and the continued growth of salad as the basis of a healthier diet and lifestyle,” said Dole’s Bil Goldfield.
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.214-215.indd 215
215
05/12/2017 16:52
features
report —Florida citrus
Florida’s fight goes on lakeland—Governor Rick Scott is leading the charge to help Florida’s citrus industry recover from its latest blow. by Carl Collen
W
hen Florida governor Rick
try which will support important
Scott unveiled a proposed
research opportunities, awareness
US$87.4bn
state
efforts and ongoing recovery opera-
budget in November, nicknamed the
2018
tions. We will continue to fight for
Securing Florida’s Future budget, it
Florida’s farmers and their families
included a potential lifeline for Flori-
as we work with the Legislature to
da’s battered and bruised citrus busi-
pass this significant investment.”
ness. Scott’s proposal earmarked
fdoc executive director Shan-
US$22m for the Florida Citrus indus-
non Shepp said: “Governor Scott’s
try, including US$5m supporting
Securing Florida’s Future budget
Florida Department of Citrus (fdoc)
recognises the deep legacy of Flor-
marketing programmes aimed at
ida’s citrus industry, and its great
educating and increasing awareness
contributions to our economy over
among consumers of the health ben-
the years. We couldn’t be more
efits of Florida Citrus and Florida
grateful for his commitment to see
Orange Juice, as well as US$650,000
Florida Citrus through our many
for new variety research ensuring
challenges, and continue our pledge
Americans have access to the citrus
to be present and accountable in all
they love long into the future.
budget actions.”
tial usda estimates, pegging the orange crop at closer
“Florida has an incredible and
It was the first chink of light at
to 31m cartons. fcm said the usda could not accurately
iconic citrus industry and follow-
the end of what has been a dark-
account for the full extent of the catastrophic damage
ing the devastating impacts of Hur-
ened tunnel for the industry. Having
from Hurricane Irma and that historically, it has a high
ricane Irma, I am fully committed to
spent years battling against the
margin of error in crop years with a natural disaster.
helping this industry, and the many
spread of the deadly citrus greening
“I’m disappointed the usda did not delay the open-
families that rely on it, fully recov-
disease, the state then had to stand
ing crop estimate until more data could be collected to
er,” explained Scott. “I am proud to
up to Hurricane Irma, which made
fully assess the damage wrought by Irma,” said Michael
announce more than US$21m for
landfall in Florida on 10 September
Sparks, fcm’s executive vice-president and chief execu-
Florida’s world famous citrus indus-
last year as a category four storm
tive. “Although we respect the skill and professionalism
and wreaked havoc on the citrus
of the usda, there is no way they can put out a reliable
crop. The usda’s initial orange fore-
number in that short time period.
Scott’s proposal was the first chink of light at the end of what has been a darkening tunnel for the Florida citrus industry
cast post-Irma came to 54m cartons,
“The long-term effect of Irma on our industry will
made up of 23m cartons of early
take years to sort out,” Sparks added. “We had groves
and mid-season and 31m cartons of
underwater and those trees aren’t just going to bounce
Valencias. The total grapefruit fore-
back and continue producing fruit. They are gone. Just
cast was 4.9m cartons, with whites
like when the hurricanes hit in 2004/05 and dramatical-
at 900,000 cartons and coloured at
ly re-shaped out industry, Irma was a historic event
4m cartons. Total specialty varieties
that dealt Florida citrus a major blow.” _ E
weighed in at 1m cartons. However,
the
state’s
largest
citrus grower organisation, Florida Citrus Mutual (fcm), said the crop would fall well short of those ini-
216
ABOVE—Rick Scott has thrown his weight behind the industry
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.216.indd 216
05/12/2017 16:49
Untitled-1 1
05/12/2017 12:23
features
report —Dole & Star Wars
BELOW—The ‘Phasma Salad’, one of Dole’s recipe suggestions BOTTOM—Dole’s message to consumers is clear
Dole turns to the fresh side
“This is a completely new campaign that will run about five months long into February next year,” he tells eurofruit. “It’s
westlake village—US produce marketer rolls out massive Star Warsbranded promotion on its fruit and veg in the US and Canada.
going to incorporate a huge packaging takeover across a lot of our lines – the biggest one we’ve ever done in terms of our Disney con-
by Carl Collen
tract – and it will
include
a number of
L
eading fresh produce
blueberries and several
company Dole is hoping
types of vegetable are
as
to use the marketing
carrying the Star Wars
sites, sweep-
force of its new Star Wars licens-
branding
stakes
ing deal with Walt Disney to pro-
Rey, Finn, Kylo Ren, Poe
mote hundreds of millions of
Dameron and other charac-
branded fruit and vegetables in
ters from Star Wars: The Last
US and Canadian supermarkets.
Jedi – the latest instalment in the
The company is aiming to “recruit
highly successful film franchise that hit cinemas in
scan their banana stickers or
generations of Star Wars fans”
mid December.
pineapple tags and unlock spe-
and
feature
during an 18-week campaign that
microand
an app that we are releasing too that will allow consumers to go into a store,
cial things about the Star Wars
started back in October last year,
JEDI lifesavers
characters, recipes and all kinds
with Dole calling on consumers
Bil Goldfield, director of corporate communications
of other fun stuff. There are lim-
to “Unite for a Healthy Galaxy”.
for Dole, says that associating Star Wars characters
ited-time stickers, so every six
with healthy eating will make a significant impres-
weeks we will release four new
sion on families.
ones – you have to get them
A wide range of products including bananas, pineapples,
218
aspects such
»
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.218-220.indd 218
05/12/2017 17:28
Untitled-2 1
11/12/2017 12:15
FEATURES
LEFT—Bring out your Jedi side with
Frozen Figher Pops BELOW—Star Wars branding on show
at PMA Fresh Summit in New Orleans BOTTOM RIGHT—Stickers will be available
for a limited time only BOTTOM LEFT—Consumers can scan
their tags to unlock special treats
while they are out there. This
in the company’s history. Dole
keeps consumers coming back
also plans to release three sets
for more, and really helps the
of
retailers.”
banana
As was the case last year,
stick-
ers inspired by
consumers
the film, and
about the benefits of healthy
shoppers will
eating will continue, Goldfield
be
explains. “Disney is so closely
with
associated with family, and par-
ter-inspired
ents have come to rely on Disney
recipes,
Dole’s
message
to
presented characlim-
to be that mark of family
ited-edition
friendliness, so continuing
stickers and a
our association is really
weekly scan-
going to help parents fight that battle to get their chil-
to-enter competition offering
dren to eat better. The great
the chance to win
thing is that we know the
Last Jedi-themed toys.
characters have an influ-
The campaign will run into 2018
ence on what kids want to
with a dedicated microsite, dig-
LUKE AHEAD
eat, so we can put it out there
ital interaction, a downloadable
There will be no slowing down
and it makes it that much
app, and blogger and social media
for the company this year either.
easier for the parents to say:
programmes.
The end of the Star Wars cam-
‘Hey, salad might not be too
Unite for a Healthy Galaxy is
paign in mid-February will see
bad if bb8 bb is going to eat one!’”
the latest in a series of healthy
the launch of Dole’s next market-
living
between
ing effort, Goldfield reveals. “In
ARTY DETOUR
Dole Food Company and the Walt
2018, we are going to be ready to
One of the most interesting
Disney Company, designed to
go again, with a whole new cam-
elements of the new campaign
help families to eat more health-
paign for the entire year after the
will
apparently
ily. Previous Dole-Disney initia-
Star Wars one ends,” he confirms.
be
Dole’s
unprecedented
collaborations
co-branding
tives include last year’s Moana
“We’re not ready to unveil what it
of retail produce departments,
promotion and this year’s Beauty
is just yet, but you’ll see new
with so-called ‘takeover’ pack-
and the Beast and Cars 3 cam-
products and innovation, espe-
paigns.
cially in the salad range.” _ E
aging used for the first time
220
limited-edition
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.218-220.indd 220
05/12/2017 17:28
L CREEK FAL
FO
A R D TO T H E NEX
T4
LO O K I N G
RW
0 YEA RS
• 19
8• 201
78
For 40 years, it has been our mission to bring growers the absolute best in blueberry genetics, plants and grower support. And it always will.
www.fallcreeknursery.com
Fall Creek - US & Cananda 1-800-538-3001 blueberries@fallcreeknursery.com
Fall Creek Mexico (+52) 384-7338077 mexico@fallcreeknursery.com
Fall Creek Peru +51 (1) 616-0160 peru@fallcreeknursery.com
All Other Regions blueberries@fallcreeknursery.com
Fall Creek Europe - EMEA +34 954 491 931 europe@fallcreeknursery.com
features
report —Canada
RIGHT—Richie
Santosdiaz (far left) with other pavilion stakeholders
Canada sees CETA opportunity berlin—Provisional implementation of
cultural history that stems back from the days before Canada even became a country. Although much of Canada’s exports do go to countries like the US, there is much trade happening between Canada and Europe. With the recent provisional implementation of ceta,
ceta means Canada is on the lookout for
which is the world’s largest free-
trade possibilities in Europe, with Fruit
trade agreement, Fruit Logisti-
Logistica a crucial port of call.
C
“Fruit Logisitca 2018 will definitely spotlight a Canadian delegation that is looking to create new EU business”
ca 2018 will definitely spotlight a Canadian delegation that is looking
high bush blueberries, sweet cher-
to continue and further open new
ries, raspberries, pears and apricots,
business in the EU. Fruit Logistica
and is the country’s second-largest
is a global show so it will also offer
growers of cranberries, peaches,
a platform to showcase products
strawberries, plums and nectarines.
anada is a country that is increasingly grab-
to other important regions in the
Prince Edward Island has agricul-
bing the attention of the world, whether
world where they are doing busi-
ture as the primary industry, with
that is the recent movements of its charis-
ness, like North America, Asia and
potato farming the largest sector of
the Middle East.”
agriculture. Quebec, meanwhile, is
by Carl Collen
matic prime-minister Justin Trudeau or the latest on the EU-Canada Comprehensive Economic and Trade
Canada’s key fruit commodi-
responsible for a quarter of Cana-
Agreement (ceta). The latter, which entered into force
ties include blueberries, cranber-
da’s annual fruit sales, is the world’s
provisionally on 21 September last year, still needs the
ries and Saskatoon berries, and
third-largest cranberry producers,
approval of national parliaments in EU countries –
while exports of fresh fruit actu-
and is a national leader in the pro-
and in some cases regional ones too – before it can take
ally declined in 2016, according to
duction of vegetables such as let-
full effect, but many are already eyeing the opportu-
Agriculture & Agrifoods Canada,
tuce, celery, radishes, green onions
nities that will inevitably arise, including those in the
fruits still accounted for 16.8 per
and peppers.
fresh produce business.
cent of total cash receipts for edible
“I am really pleased to help orga-
It is with this in mind that the country will, for
horticulture that year. Canada’s
nise and spearhead Canada’s pres-
the second consecutive year, have a national pavil-
top three fruit exports, blueber-
ence at Fruit Logistica again,” adds
ion at Fruit Logistica in Berlin, with the provinces of
ries, cranberries and sweet cher-
Santosdiaz. “Given the success the
British Columbia, Quebec and Prince Edward Island
ries, have all grown significantly in
first Canada pavilion had in 2017, it
joining the Embassy of Canada in Germany in being
production terms since 2014. Blue-
is great to see it happening again
represented. A delegation of nearly 20 companies from
berries continue to be Canada’s top
and for all the stakeholders to take
these provinces will utilise the pavilion, seeking new
fruit export by volume and value,
part and showcase some of the
potential global buyers.
accounting for 58.1 per cent of
best that Canada has to offer. ceta
export dollars and 46.3 per cent of
will definitely put Canada in the
export tonnage.
spotlight this year, in addition to
“Europe has long been an important market for Canada,” explains Richie Santosdiaz, trade expert and
222
and France, shares a historical and
one of the main organisers of the Canadian presence
By province, British Colum-
at Fruit Logistica. “Canada, in particular with the UK
bia is Canada’s largest producer of
the fact it is celebrating its 150th anniversary as a country.” _ E
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.222.indd 222
05/12/2017 17:29
Untitled-2 1
11/12/2017 11:38
features
report —Plant & Food
I
nternational development and aid is in focus at New Zealand Plant & Food
Research. The company has been involved in development work for some time, yet, after seeing growth over the past five years, the science organisation has now established a dedicated business unit, headed up by Dr Suzie Newman. The establishment of the team means a renewed focus on broad-
ABOVE & LEFT—
ening and diversifying its develop-
Plant & Food
ment work in places such as South
Research’s other
East Asia, India, the Pacific and Africa
development projects include
with its major partner the New Zea-
working with
land Aid Programme (part of the Min-
the Cambodian
istry of Foreign Affairs and Trade), as
government
well as exploring the possibility of
to develop gap
new partnerships. According to Newman, Plant & Food Research’s strong reputation for its development work is due, in part, to its established value chain expertise and strong connections with the
practices
A true developer
and easy to implement for growers. The project also involves developing disease resistant dragon
private sector and industry in gen-
auckland—A dedicated business unit will
eral. “We’re seen as being commer-
help Plant & Food Research to broaden and
shelf-life, thereby allowing Viet-
cially focused, with a results-driven
diversify its development work across a
namese exports to reach more dis-
approach,” says Newman. “This, coupled with our well-functioning part-
number of countries.
record of delivering development sci-
fruit varieties that have a longer
tant markets. Other Plant & Food Research proj-
nerships, means we have a good track
ects include developing safe, quality
by Gabrielle Easter
vegetables in Vietnam’s Binh Dinh
ence on the ground.”
province, working with the Cambo-
As well as the obvious benefits
dian government to introduce gap
to the livelihoods and economies
better understanding of the issues and future risks, if
practices, and addressing biosecurity
of the communities at the heart
any, to New Zealand.
issues in Samoa that constrain taro
of the development projects, there
“Science
is
an
international
game,”
explains
shipments to Australia.
are also benefits to Plant & Food
Newman. “Our projects might start with an interna-
In Kenya, the team is working
Research itself, and New Zealand’s
tional development and aid programme, but future
with New Zealand company Oliva-
primary industries. The work comes
relationships subsequently develop that create strong
do to improve production and har-
with challenges that stimulate new
partnerships and broaden scientific knowledge.”
vesting techniques of avocados.
thinking, and the learnings can be significant.
One particular project is with Vietnam’s dragon fruit industry.
“The development work we do is tremendously
rewarding,”
says
Newman says that the issues
“Current exports of dragon fruit are worth around
Newman. “It’s not just about turn-
facing growers in developing coun-
US$900m, with most exports going to China, but there’s
ing up and doing some science. You
tries can have similarities to those
still a lot of potential for market growth,” Newman
have to go to these places as a listen-
faced in more advanced countries,
explains. “But the industry is facing issues, including a
er first and look for solutions
such as New Zealand.
bacterial canker that wiped out the Malaysian dragon
through
fruit industry.”
includes enabling the people them-
Additionally, getting up close
224
methods that are simple, effective
with pests or diseases in overseas
To reduce the impact of the disease, Plant & Food
markets allows scientists to get a
Research scientists are working on developing control
the
culture
–
which
selves to scale out the methods we develop.” _ E
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.224-225.indd 224
06/12/2017 09:14
features
REPORT —Jiuye
Linking China shanghai—Chinese cold chain specialist looks to expand its cross-border fresh food logistics and trade services, and further link China to the global market. by Yuxin Yang
T&G ramps up blueberry portfolio New Zealand-headquartered T&G Global has secured one of the biggest collections of proprietary blueberry varieties in the world. The announcement follows an agreement between the vertically integrated company and Plant & Food Research New Zealand, which gives T&G Global excusive commercialisation rights to 16 premium blueberry varieties. The agreement includes varieties from Fall Creek
E
stablished in 2014, Chinese
2018 in Berlin will see its official
Farm & Nursery in Oregon, for which Plant & Food
cold chain logistics com-
launch into the European market.
Research holds the Australian licensing rights. It also includes varieties developed by Plant & Food Research.
pany Jiuye has expanded
“We are seeing more and more
quickly on the back of China’s fresh
imported products coming into
food e-commerce boom. Today, Jiuye
China,
has 17 cold chain distribution centres
going overseas. The trade environ-
one of its key categories, adding to its large volume
across 14 cities in China, and a logis-
ment is ever improving,” he says.
of berries traded from North and South America, New
tics network that supports its deliv-
“It presents a great opportunity
Zealand and Australia.
ery services to more than 576 cities.
for supply chain service providers
“Fall Creek is a significant global player in
like us to expand our business to
blueberry breeding and propagation, and Plant &
other parts of the world.”
Food Research have had some real success in breeding
“After three years in operation, Jiuye now has an extensive fresh
and
Chinese
products
T&G executive general manager Sarah McCormack says the agreement would further drive growth in
blueberries for temperate climates,” McCormack
food cold chain network in mainland
2017 has been a productive year
China, with our services covering
for the company’s cross-border busi-
explains. “Our new arrangement allows T&G to expand
cold storage, in-storage processing,
ness. Working with overseas part-
our footprint for berries in Australia.
long distance transport, and last
ners, Jiuye brought Chilean cherries,
mile home delivery,” says Cory Guo,
Polish apples, Thai coconuts, as well
highbush varieties, as well as Rabbiteye, which will suit
the company’s cross-border logistics
as other products from the farms
a range of growing climates and market windows. This
director, pictured above at Taiwan
directly
consumers’
new suite will allow us to grow for, and export from
Agriculture Week hosted in Kaohsi-
homes. The company also introduced
Australia, which complements our existing growing
ung in November.
Chinese peaches from Longquanyi to
and marketing operations in New Zealand.”
to
Chinese
“The portfolio includes Northern and Southern
Jiuye has been actively promot-
Russia through airfreight, and sup-
ing its services outside of main-
ported them with promotional activ-
land China over the past year.
ities in the market. Guo says their
“We see ourselves as a matchmak-
Prior to exhibiting at the Taiwan
cross-border business goes beyond
er in the global fresh produce trade.
show, Jiuye made its debut appear-
logistics service. It is about finding
We source quality products from
ance at this year’s Asia Fruit Logis-
good products, identifying the right
around the world, and bring them to
tica in Hong Kong. Fruit Logistica
markets and then delivering them.
market, ” he explains. _ E
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.224-225.indd 225
225
06/12/2017 09:14
features
report —Qifeng
Qifeng eyes global expansion shaanxi—As production continues to increase, leading Chinese kiwifruit brand sees developing export markets as a priority for the next five years. by Yuxin Yang
D
uring this year’s Singles Day, China’s largest online shopping festival on 11 November, Chinese producer and marketer Qifeng broke
its own record with a turnover of RMB8.35m within its 24-hour kiwifruit sale, further consolidating its position as one of China’s leading kiwifruit enterprises. With e-tailing platforms leading the company’s growth in recent years, Qifeng is expecting its sales volume to surpass 35,000 tonnes in 2017, a sharp increase on last year. The company recently formed a strategic cooperation partnership with JD Fresh, the fresh food division of Chinese e-tailer giant JD.com. The collabora-
“This year we will be launching into Canadian and European markets. Now we are in the process of building partnerships”
tion between the two parties will go beyond e-tail sales.
“Qifeng’s orchards have been certified by Globalgap, which makes us the first Chinese kiwifruit specialist that can export to the UN,” says Nemo Li, e-commerce business and marketing manager of Qifeng. “This year we will be launching into Canada and European markets. Now we are in the process of building partnerships in the new markets,” he says. “For the next five
“On top of the regular partnership in sales, through
Export business is also expand-
JD Finance, JD Logistics and JD X Department (the
ing rapidly for Qifeng. The company
frontier technology development team), we will
is already selling to Thailand, Singa-
expand our cooperation in all directions. The end
pore and Malaysia, as well as Dubai
goal is to bring safer, better and cheaper kiwifruit to
and Russia, and is eyeing opportu-
the consumers,” says Li Xiaofei, JD Fresh north China
nities to venture into Europe and
product manager.
Canada in the near future.
years, global markets will be a priority for the company.” _ E
ABOVE—Qifeng introduced a new
kiwifruit brand this year for online sales, Aiqiguo
SCIENCE THROUGH THE VALUE CHAIN VISIT US AT
226
HALL 6.2 / BOOTH C-07
J007258_ADVERT_FruitLogistica_2018.indd 1
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.226-227.indd 226
TM
/ FRUIT LOGISTICA / BERLIN / 7-9 FEBRUARY
plantandfood.co.nz 29/11/17 2:48 PM
05/12/2017 17:35
features
report —Zespri
Deloitte Z delight for Zespri MOUnT MaUnGanUi—The kiwifruit marketer has been recognised at the
espri in
was
the
recognised
2017
keting organisation” and drive demand for Zespri’s
Deloitte
premium kiwifruit. “This award is real testament to
Top 200 Awards for its
the great team we have at Zespri – passionate, dedi-
strong growth strategy, with the
cated people around the world who bring to life our
kiwifruit marketing company on
global grower-to-consumer strategy day in and day
track to more than double global
out – and the long-term partnerships we have with
sales to NZ$4.5bn by 2025. The
our customers,” said Mathieson. “Kiwifruit is big
Deloitte Top 200 Awards rec-
business in New Zealand but it only makes up 1.5 per
ognises
cent of the globally-traded fruitbowl so we see huge
business
excellence
and noteworthy leadership in
potential to grow the overall category.
New Zealand, with the award
“How are we going to double sales in seven years?
Deloitte Top 200 Awards in
given across ten categories. The
We’ll continue to grow market demand for our prod-
New Zealand for its strong
awards were presented in front
ucts by building our premium Zespri brand and
of an audience of business lead-
kiwifruit products to best meet the needs of our
ers at Auckland’s Spark Arena in
growing consumer base with a relentless commit-
November last year.
ment to quality, taste and safety.”
growth strategy. by John Hey
In a media statement, Zespri chief
executive
officer
Zespri also sees innovation as key to driving its
Dan
ambitious growth targets. The kiwifruit industry
Mathieson said the 2degrees Best
invests around NZ$35m a year in innovation, with
Growth Strategy award was wel-
more than half of this invested in Zespri’s joint new
come recognition for the work
varieties breeding programme with Plant & Food
done across the industry to grow
Research, developing new products to attract new
“a genuine global sales and mar-
consumers and grow the overall category. _ E
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.226-227.indd 227
227
05/12/2017 17:35
asia fruit logistica 2017
Review —Asiafruit Congress
Matthew Jones Asiafruit deputy editor matthew@fruitnet.com
Dynamism on display at Asiafruit Congress Expert speakers explained the latest retail, consumer and trade trends in the fast-moving Asian markets at Asia’s
ABOVE—Guests were welcomed with an eye-catching display
produced by Grapes from California
W
hile protectionism may be fuelling uncertainty in the global economy, confidence in Asia’s fresh produce business is seemingly
sky high, as evinced by the exciting new retail, trade and consumer trends emerging across the region.
premier fresh produce conference.
Industry experts charted the rise of several of these trends at Asiafruit Congress in Hong Kong. Taking place on 5 September, the day before Asia
“In embryonic markets, we expect lots of new entrants from both domestic and imported players. Emerging giants include Indonesia and the Philippines”
Retail revolution
ble conference attracted 405 high-level industry professionals and decision-makers from 38 different countries, providing an information-rich platform for fresh market insights and networking. In the following report, Matthew Jones rounds up the key programme highlights, as reported on by Fruitnet’s onsite editorial team.
stronger local and regional players.
By 2021, Asia will be bigger than
Logistics can also be a huge prob-
Europe and North America com-
The momentum behind the fresh produce business in
lem as both markets are made up of
bined, retaining its crown as the larg-
Asia is perhaps best exemplified at retail level.
thousands of islands.”
est global retail market.
As the modern retail sector continues to mature in
In the more developed retail mar-
Following Zhu’s presentation,
Asia, suppliers can expect more direct collaboration with
kets, such as Thailand, Japan, China
the opening session zoomed in
storeowners and operators, according to Shirley Zhu, who
and Taiwan, Zhu said retailers had
on some of the new retail con-
leads the South East Asia research programme for global
stopped “land-grabbing” and are now
cepts taking off in Asia through
food and grocery analyst igd. However, specific models
working to understand their custom-
case study-style interviews with
and consumer trends vary significantly according to each
ers, trial new formats and develop an
pioneering players. The integra-
market’s stage of retail development.
identity.
tion of online and physical shop-
Delivering the keynote presentation during the open-
“One of the themes we have
ing general session, Zhu suggested retail development in
seen is big stores utilising their
are paving the way for a new era
the region was currently split across four stages; embry-
space better,” she continued. “Larger
of shopping. Asiafruit Congress
onic (Vietnam and India); emerging giants (the Philip-
stores are also trying to drive foot-
moderator Chris White inter-
pines and Indonesia); modern shapers (China, Malaysia
fall through their destination prod-
viewed Paul Sheh of Alibaba-
and Thailand); and multichannel trendsetters (Japan,
ucts, these are the products they are
backed online-to-offline (O2O)
Taiwan and South Korea).
known for, whether that’s fresh or
retailer Hema Supermarket, fol-
beauty or wines.”
lowed by Walmart China’s Win-
“In the embryonic markets, you can expect lots of new market entrants from both domestic and imported play-
228
Fruit Logistica, Asia’s premier fresh fruit and vegeta-
The growth rate in Asian retail is
ping and membership systems
stone Chee and Sam’s Club China’s
ers,” she explained. “The emerging giants include Indone-
similar to Latin America, said Zhu,
Yoep Man, about their respective
sia and the Philippines, and in these markets we expect
at around six per cent year-on-year.
concepts and strategies.
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.228-232.indd 228
05/12/2017 17:41
asia fruit logistica 2017
REPORT —About
The role of protectionism The ability of international suppliers to capitalise on Asia’s retail boom could be tested over coming years. While some trade analysts argue the rise of protectionism could create instability in the global economy, others suggest it could generate new opportunities for fresh produce shippers. This was a major discussion point during the final general session of this year’s Asiafruit Congress, which heard how market diversification was key to managing increased risk. Michael Every of Rabobank kicked off the session with a thought-provoking presentation showing how history can be a useful guide in predicting the fallout from the current wave of protectionism sweeping the globe. With the dollar-based global trading model looking more and more precarious, the emergence of new trading alliances such as China’s One Belt One Road initiative will have major implications for fruit producers, Every warned. The politicisation of world trade could lead to new alliances emerging and old ones crumbling, and fruit producers could find themselves caught in the middle of an ugly trade war that forces them to choose between trade partners. In the panel discussion that followed Every’s presen-
TOP—Wayne Prowse of Fresh Intelligence crunches the fruit trade numbers
tation, Camposol Trading’s José Antonio Gómez pointed
ABOVE —Rabobank’s Michael Every gives his view on global trade
out that the rise of protectionism in traditional markets is being offset by growing trade with countries like China. He said the recent opening of Camposol’s new office in Shanghai was a “statement of intent” from the company. Filip Fontaine of Belgium’s BelOrta shared this optimism, insisting that European producers had already proven themselves to be well equipped to deal with shifts in the global trading landscape by regrouping quickly in the wake of the Russian embargo to find new markets, including China and India.
»
ABOVE & RIGHT—The opening session honed in on Asia’s retail landscape, with
contributions from igd’s Shirley Zhu, Hema Supermarket’s Paul Sheh as well as Winstone Chee of Walmart China and Yoep Man of Sam’s Club China
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.228-232.indd 229
229
05/12/2017 17:41
asia fruit logistica 2017
Brand building Building a global brand that is relevant to local consumers is a central objective of suppliers like Camposol and BelOrta, who are looking to develop new trade channels in Asia. Jiunn Shih, Zespri’s general manager for marketing, offered delegates a valuable insight into his company’s work in this space during the second general session of the conference. The key, according to Shih, was to engage consumers and move beyond the focus on quality and the New Zealand origin typical of previous marketing efforts. “We’ve been telling the story about our growers and their quality for a long time,” he said. “It is an assurance of quality, but not just that. Quality is an important element, and a fundamental part of our communication in some markets, but it is not the only one.” The issue, he said, was that fresh produce had developed the image of a commodity in consumers’ eyes. “This is not great if we want to deliver better long-term value to our growers,” Shih told delegates. “The way to fight that is by telling better stories, stories that connect at an emotional level with the consumer, helping people to make sense and find meaning.” Shih concluded with some tips for fresh produce marketers, not just in Asia, but globally. “When marketing, put consumers at the heart of what you do,” he said. “Think of the people you are actually selling to. And don’t try to do everything. We don’t have as deep pockets as the fmcg sector, so concentrate on what is most important.”
Breakout Sessions Delegates to Asiafruit Congress were also able to choose from a range of afternoon Breakout Sessions. One of the sessions examined market opportunities in Vietnam, while another explored success strategies for European exporters to Asia. The role of e-commerce in the B2B environment also came under the spotlight, as did the regulatory landscape for protecting IP varieties in China.
ABOVE—Zespri’s Jiunn Shih told
delegates to put the consumer at the heart of their marketing LEFT—Antonio Palanca from the
HiveXchange (top left), John Piper of Food Asia Marketing (top right), and Zespri’s Andrew Common (left) spoke during the breakout sessions
» 230
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.228-232.indd 230
05/12/2017 17:41
20 YEARS OF BRINGING BUSINESSES TOGETHER IN ASIA The best place for strategic information and quality networking
Organised by
Together with
Part of Fruitnet Media International 132 Wandsworth Road, London SW8 2LB, United Kingdom. Tel +44 20 7501 3700 | Fax + 44 20 7501 0306 | fruitnet.com
AFC2018 A4.indd 1
07/12/2017 16:08
asia fruit logistica 2017
ABOVE RIGHT—Ronald Bown of
Lions at lunch
Asoex, Christian Tagle of the Chilean
A traditional lion dance brought a splash of colour and local flavour to the Networking Lunch at Asiafruit Congress, which was sponsored by Cherries from Chile. The ceremony marked the launch of Chile’s new cherry consumer campaign in China. Running in 48 cities and covering a wide range of activities spanning the major distribution channels, the US$5m campaign is Chile’s largest generic promotional campaign ever in China.
Cherry Committee and former Chilean president Eduardo Frei RuizTagle at the launch of the Chilean
Next year’s Asiafruit Congress takes place at AsiaWorld-Expo Centre on 4 September 2018.
new cherry campaign
Website asiafruitcongress.com
Download the presentations and browse the photo gallery from Asiafruit Congress at the official website.
ABOVE—The congress again provided a platform for
networking
232
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.228-232.indd 232
05/12/2017 17:41
Mumbai
26-27 April 2018
register
now
India’s only national forum for fresh produce industry decision makers Explore business opportunities in the fast-growing Indian market Sponsors include
freshproduceindia.com Organised by
In association with
Supported by
@freshprodINDIA
Part of Fruitnet Media International 132 Wandsworth Road, London SW8 2LB, United Kingdom. Tel +44 20 7501 3700 | Fax + 44 20 7501 0306 | fruitnet.com
A4 FPI filler 2018.indd 1
30/10/2017 12:17
features
report —Koppert
The Ulti-Mite solution almeria—Melon and watermelon growers will soon be able to better control thrips and whitefly by utilising Koppert’s UltiMite Swirski system. by Carl Collen
K
oppert Spain, the local subsidiary of Koppert Biological
Systems,
is
aiming to provide welcome relief for melon and watermelon growers threatened by pests such as thrips
“We saw a marked improve-
on soil-based crops, and the results
ment in how thrips and white-
are promising again. “It’s clear that
flies were brought under control,”
Ulti-Mite Swirski has the ability to
explains Jaime Gisbert Alborch,
further improve the strength of
on melons and
technical consultant at Koppert
biological systems in a huge range
watermelons
Spain. “This was in line with
of crops,” Alborch concludes.
ABOVE—Ulti-Mite
Swirski can help control thrips and whitefly
and whitefly with its award-win-
expectations, given that we had
ning control solution. The compa-
already noticed this effect in
Award recognition
ny’s Ulti-Mite Swirski biocontrol
greenhouse crops such as sweet
The Ulti-Mite Swirski concept won
product is already widely used on
peppers, cucumbers, aubergines
third prize in the Bernard Blum
a range of fresh fruits and vegeta-
and courgettes. Our research fur-
Award 2017, decided each year by
bles, and new field research con-
ther highlights the effectiveness
the International Biocontrol Man-
ducted by the company has found
of Ulti-Mite Swirski in melons
ufacturers
the system results in a marked
and watermelons.” The product
awarded to those innovative prod-
improvement in controlling the
features a slow-release bag made
ucts providing impetus to biologi-
pests on watermelons and melons.
from specially developed material
cal crop protection. In addition, the
Carried out in the spring of 2017
that is extremely resistant to heat,
product has been nominated for
in traditional production areas
drought and moisture, with a rein-
the prestigious Fruit Logistica
Almeria, Murcia and Castilla-La
forced hook. As well as being 100
Innovation Award 2018. _ E
Mancha, the research demonstrat-
per cent industrial compostable,
ed how Ulti-Mite Swirski – which
the bag is now more resistant to
is based on the beneficial predato-
outdoor conditions and offers the
ry mite Amblyseius swirskii – had
best possible conditions for Ambly-
a positive impact.
seius swirskii to build up its popu-
Association
and
lation.
“It’s clear that Ulti-Mite Swirski has the ability to further improve the strength of biological systems in a huge range of different crops”
Koppert says it is anticipating a boost in demand for Ulti-Mite Swirski, with its field organisa-
Further reading
tion starting to distribute information among melon growers about how to best use the product. The group notes that this information
www.koppert.com
Koppert’s website outlines its range of biological solutions to aid growers in their battle against pests.
and advice is tailored to the need and circumstances of each client. Research, meanwhile, is still ongoing, with the company carrying out tests on citrus and ornamentals, as well as research focused
234
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.234.indd 234
06/12/2017 09:23
Untitled-1 1
07/12/2017 15:12
features
report —Packaging and technology
Weighing up the positives birmingham—Ishida has brought through two new innovations for use in the fresh produce industry in the shape of the rve range and its AirScan leak detector. by Carl Collen
P
acking line solutions spe-
weighments per minute, Ishida noted.
perature sensor’ option for the live
cialist Ishida Europe has
Key to the performance of the rve weighers is the
monitoring of moisture ingress or
launched a new series of
introduction of several advanced technology features
extreme temperatures during pro-
mid-range multihead weighers for
from Ishida’s RV multihead weighers, including pro-
duction. Any problems, for example
the high performance weighing of
grammable digital filtering and advanced automat-
caused by a door cover left open or
free-flowing and semi-sticky prod-
ic feeder adjustment. In addition, critical components
the failure of a loadcell membrane,
ucts, technology that the company
such as loadcells and drive units are exclusively designed
will be immediately detected and
says is ideal for many fresh fruit
and manufactured by Ishida to ensure high perfor-
flagged up on the weigher’s Remote
applications.
mance standards are maintained.
Control Unit (rcu) or as part of Sen-
Ishida’s rve range, according
“The new rve range represents a major step forward in
tinel monitoring. This allows fast
to the group, is available in a wide
the provision of advanced multihead weighing solutions
intervention to protect companies
choice of models, together with a
at a competitive price,” comments Ian Atkinson, Ishida
against unnecessary downtime and
broad selection of radial troughs,
Europe’s business manager for Multihead Weighers. “The
help deliver enhanced maintenance
hoppers and discharge chutes. This
speed, accuracy and reliability of every model will ensure
and longer machine life.
enables the weighers to be tailored
they deliver a fast return on investment.”
Another
recent
introduction
to individual product requirements
An important benefit of the rve range is that all
is Ishida’s AirScan leak detector,
with models available for mono-,
models are pre-configured for the new generation of
which uses advanced laser technol-
mixed product (handling up to four
‘smart’ factories and are available with a choice of packag-
ogy to identify leaks of CO2 from
different products simultaneously)
es incorporating Ishida’s Sentinel remote customer care
holes as small as 0.25mm in sealed
and multiple-outlet weighing, and
software. This provides users with the options of auto-
modified atmosphere packaging
from small to large target weights.
mated daily reporting of production line data, remote
(map) packs at speeds of up to 180
Speeds are dependent on model
interventions or a live performance monitoring service.
packs per minute, enabling manu-
and application and can reach 120
The rve WP models offer a unique ‘dew sensor’ and ‘tem-
facturers to minimise spoilage in pre-packed retail products. Ishida also offers a range of complementary
equipment
including
tray denesters, fillers, traysealers, foreign body detection systems, checkweighers, seal testers, label inspection and end-of-line handling modules all of which can be fully integrated to meet the precise packing requirements of individual companies. _ E
TOP—Ishida’s RVE range is ideal for use
with many fresh produce applications LEFT—The AirScan leak detector uses
laser technology to identify CO2 leaks
236
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.236.indd 236
06/12/2017 09:26
Weighed and measured to the point of perfection
Precision shouldn’t come at the cost of speed. Our world leading weighing technology combines fast processing with unparalleled accuracy and reliability. It’s how you can reduce your product giveaway while increasing your efficiency. Work in harmony with Ishida.
ishidaeurope.com
A5144_ISDA_UK_Eurofruit_Berries_Jan18_216x303_V1a_ML_AW.indd 1
14/11/2017 14:56
features
report —Packaging and technology
Protect those pallets
Pallet price warning from TIMCON Continually increasing costs of raw materials are
larbert—The innovative upall protection
now impacting on the price of wooden pallet and
initiative could increase the lifespan of pallets
packaging products from the UK and Ireland, says the Timber Packaging & Pallet Confederation
used in the grocery industry by up to three times.
(timcon). A report released at the end of 2017 showed the price of pallet timber has increased
by Carl Collen
for the fourteenth consecutive month, the price of nails had risen for 16 months running and the price of both new and recycled wooden pallets is also timber
tially longer. This is because the
cialist James Jones &
pallets subsequently experience
Stuart Hex, timcon general secretary, said
Sons has unveiled a
less damage with fewer wood
buoyant alternative markets creating a scarcity
new venture that could dramat-
chippings and less debris, ulti-
of imported timber and an unfavourable exchange
ically improve the quality, lifes-
mately cutting downtime, main-
rate were two causes of the problem. “timcon
pan and environmental benefits
tenance and housekeeping, while
monitors the market continuously and we’ve seen
of wooden pallets used in the gro-
also improving safety.
timber prices escalating since the start of 2016,”
cery industry, while also signifi-
“The upall-protected pallet is
he said. “In 2017 alone UK and Irish pallet timber
cantly reducing their overall cost.
a truly innovative and ground-
increased by more than 10 per cent and the Baltic
The company’s upall initiative
breaking development in wooden
by even more. Approximately 70 per cent of pallet
involves fitting robust protectors
pallets, which are critical to so
costs are timber, so these unrelenting increases are
– based on the US pointguard
many supply chains,” explains
now clearly having to be fed into the selling prices
invention which has been rede-
Gil Covey, chairman of upall Ltd.
of timber pallets and packaging. These increases
signed and redeveloped for the
“Rigorous
not only affect new pallets, packaging and repairs,
European market – at the points
and trials show that this propri-
they also increase demands for reconditioned
of entry on wooden pallets, mean-
etary product brings remarkable
pallets, leading to supply issues.
ing the pallets last longer, need
increases to the lifespan of a
fewer repairs and stay in circula-
pallet and reduces its cost signif-
to have an effect, price rises are currently
tion for longer.
icantly. Meanwhile, the consider-
occurring across many other industries, in
The method has undergone
able increase in service life gives
alternative materials, for example,” he added.
testing at Virginia Tech in the
significant environmental advan-
“This is a general problem, but the very high
US, with results showing upall
tages over unprotected wooden
cost of materials in the pallet industry makes
increases the lifespan of a wooden
pallets.”
it impossible to fully absorb increases on this
pallet by three times, and poten-
TOP—Robust protectors help increase
the shelf-life of wooden pallets
238
now rising.
spe-
U
K-based
The
independent
protectors
use
testing
virgin
“As exchange rates and inflation continue
scale. The wooden pallet and packaging industry
copolymer polypropylene protec-
is working closely with its customers to manage
tors and can be supplied in corpo-
this situation.” However, Hex noted that “wooden
rate colours with printed logos
pallets and packaging remain by far the most
and other designs for marketing
economic choice, not to mention the most
purposes, the group notes. _ E
environmentally sustainable.”
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.238.indd 238
05/12/2017 17:48
Untitled-1 1
07/12/2017 15:13
features
Interview —Joel Chase, Bühler
No day off for Bühler uzwil—Swiss family-owned technology group Bühler has introduced the Sortex FA1 to its fruit and vegetable processing portfolio while expanding its dedicated F&V team, as product manager Joel Chase tells eurofruit. by Carl Collen
W
hat has been happen-
Bühler has also expanded its ded-
ing at Bühler in recent
icated fruit and vegetable team, both
times?
in the UK and overseas. Stephen
ABOVE—Sortex technology in action
Jacobs has moved from the UK to the
not only reduces the risk of biological contaminants and
Joel Chase: Safety and quality are
US, and has been replaced in the UK
product cross contamination, but thanks to its ability to
paramount in the food industry, so it’s
by myself as product manager for the
run the Sortex PolarVision and BioVision technologies it
no surprise that there has been a pro-
global F&V sector.
also offers superior foreign material detection.
What are your key products?
How is Bühler finding the market?
differing technologies – and quality
JC: Bühler has an extensive portfo-
JC: There has been an overwhelmingly positive response
standards – now available, it is vital
lio of premium sorting equipment
to the new Sortex F range, and it is regarded as one of
that manufacturers and processors
that can be tailored to the needs of
the most technologically advanced sorting machines in
diligently research all the options
a diverse range of products and com-
the food industry. One of our customers, Mike DeRuo-
that meet their sorting needs before
modities.
si from DeRuosi nuts, called Sortex BioVision “The per-
liferation of technologies launched in recent years to address these issues. However, with such a plethora of
committing to any major capital investment.
240
The evolution of the Sortex
fect sorting technology”, explaining that it takes care of
F range began in 2016, when we
all the different challenges his company faces in process-
In terms of frozen fruit and vege-
launched the first Sortex FA2 opti-
ing walnuts, including the ability to move larger volumes
table processors, Bühler is extending
cal sorter with PolarVision for fruit
in a shorter period.
the industry’s most hygienic sort-
and vegetable processors, and less
ing portfolio with the addition of
than 12 month later the Sortex FB2
the Sortex FA1. This follows the suc-
was developed to serve nut and dried
cessful launch of the high capacity
fruit processors.
What are your plans for 2018? JC: Increasing regulation and the ever-greater importance
Sortex FA2 in 2016. The lower capac-
The Sortex F rage of optical sorters
of food safety in the food industry will continue as the
ity, 600mm-chute, Sortex FA1 model
achieved new standards in hygien-
major trends moving into 2018. Food safety, in the form of
is also equipped with Bühler’s Polar-
ic processing. Its stainless steel, open
managing allergens and aflatoxins, as well as greater for-
Vision advanced foreign material
frame with sloped surfaces, hygienic
eign material detection and hygienic processing, will con-
detection technology and has been
conduits and food-safe grade fixings,
tinue to be a priority.
designed with a smaller footprint,
make it easier to clean and thus helps
Also, this year Bühler celebrates its 70th anniversary in
to be used for final foreign material
prevent the buildup of pathogenic
the optical sorting business. While the company can trace
removal and quality checking. It will
bacteria that can incubate foodborne
its roots back to over 150 years in food processing, its sort-
handle processing capacities of up to
diseases such as E-coli, Listeria, Noro-
ing expertise began in 1947 in London, where the world’s
7 tonnes per hour.
virus and Salmonella. Additionally, it
first optical sorter, the Sortex G1, was developed. _ E
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.240.indd 240
06/12/2017 09:30
Untitled-3 1
04/12/2017 14:32
FEATURES
INTERVIEW —Jeff Goulding, Muddy Boots
M
Big steps for Muddy Boots ross-on-wye—Jeff Goulding speaks to eurofruit about Muddy Boots’ Sensitech
years as we have expanded into
over two decades work-
new territories and this necessitates
ing to develop pioneering
expanding our team.
Our office
software for the agricultural indus-
in Hamburg has grown to facili-
try, and the future holds many more
tate our increased European pen-
opportunities, as senior business
etration as we continue working
development manager Jeff Gould-
with a number of European retail-
ing explains.
ers including one of our largest customers, Aldi Süd. Our activity
What has Muddy Boots been work-
is increasing in South Africa too as
ing on over the past year?
this exciting market begins to grow.
Jeff Goulding: The beginning of
Which of your products stood out
2017 saw our first global strategic
in 2017?
synergy, global expansion, and why
partnership with Sensitech, world
the future is bright for technological
leaders in cold supply-chain track-
JG: We are seeing increased adop-
ing in food and pharmaceuticals.
tion in our crop recording so ware,
The synergy between Muddy Boots’
Greenlight Grower Management,
heritage in fresh produce QA and
as we continue to mature our offer.
Sensitech’s industry leading cold
With plenty of features being built
chain platforms presents a unique
and released every two weeks to
opportunity to address some of
deliver value to the end user, we are
the key challenges around quality,
seeing rapid global expansion par-
waste and cost.
ticularly in Canada, South Africa
innovators. by Carl Collen
242
uddy Boots has spent
We have continued to see sig-
and New Zealand – all territories
nificant growth over the last few
beyond our core European markets.
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.242-243.indd 242
05/12/2017 17:51
FEATURES
Where are your key markets, and
more intelligent technology. So the
how are market conditions?
future is bright for businesses that can continue to innovate with the
JG: Key markets are built around
latest technology and meet these
global food supply chains and our
growing needs.
unique ability, through our suite of platforms, to work from grower
What are your plans for 2018?
to retailer. These currently include
Our key offer centres on an integrated suite of QA
the UK, Australia and New Zealand,
JG: Our plans include strengthen-
northern Europe and East Africa.
ing our activity in the aforemen-
Our partnership with Sensitech will
tioned
enable us to focus our new activity
experience and expertise to address
in North and South America in 2018,
some of the key challenges facing
markets that Muddy Boots recog-
these markets. Our work over 20
nises as having huge potential.
years within the UK retail sector,
territories,
using
our
platforms with the clear ambition of improving quali-
There is no doubting the pres-
which arguably leads the way in
ty, delivering transparency and mitigating risk. Muddy
sure the current UK supply chain is
areas of food safety, sustainability
Boots is launching a powerful new integrated BI tool,
under with the aggressive growth of
and traceability, puts Muddy Boots
Insights, that will support the delivery of actionable
the discounters, but the increasing
in a strong position to extend its
insights to our customers. Through our platforms, our
globalisation of our industry brings
activity in these new territories. _ E
customers have increasingly large data sets around
an even greater need for supply
product quality, audit performance, grower profile, crop
chain transparency. The relentless
performance etc, and it is critical that this data is ana-
drive for efficiency and the reduc-
lysed and served up in a way that drives improvement
tion of waste and cost brings sharp-
LEFT—Muddy Boots offers data sets that
and profitability.
ly in to focus the need for smarter,
aid customers in their decision making
PARTNERING TO PROTECT AND ENHANCE YOUR BRAND
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.242-243.indd 243
243
05/12/2017 17:51
features
report —Packaging and technology
Carton Pack’s friendly PET rutigliano—Carton Pack is offering what it has described as an even more sustainable alternative to standard pet containers for fresh produce.
rial that means a low environmental
colour; furthermore, it has a crisp
impact, Carton Pack explained.
backdrop and a remarkably smooth
by Carl Collen
The structure of the container
ABOVE—A cross
section showing the microscopic bubbles
244
I
reaches
lower
weights
surface for vivid graphic reproduc-
than
tion. “By utilising an innovative and
normal pet – up to 50 per cent less –
environmentally friendly new tech-
talian group Carton Pack is
while retaining the functional and
nology, the plastic expands by very
offering what is has called
mechanical characteristics of packag-
precisely
a “new frontier” in ther-
ing using regular pet.
microscopic bubbles beneath the
distributing
billions
of
moformed packaging for fruit, veg-
“It has an outstanding appeal sim-
solid layers of skin,” the group contin-
etables and fresh-cut produce. The
ilar to eco-friendly containers made
ues. “This engineered microstructure
group’s Cartonpet tray is light, dura-
of paper of cardboard,” the group
gives the Cartonpet tray its ground-
ble and offers green benefits, being
notes. “The bubbles in the material’s
breaking lightweight and superlative
made of 80 per cent recycled mate-
core enhance the cardboard-like
thermal insulating properties.” _ E
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.244.indd 244
05/12/2017 17:56
features
report —Packaging and technology
impact of birds on his crops. Meduri has a 68.1 ha blueberry farm, with the annual cost of bird damage at Meduri Farms quantified at approximately 25 per cent of the overall potential crop volume, or approximately US$100,000. Needing a repellent solution, Meduri discovered the Agrilaser Autonomic via the local solutions integrator Oregon Vineyard Supply. The automated laser is used at blueberry farms around the world such as John Benson in Australia and the blueberry research farm of Oregon State University in the US and there are now 6,000 users of the laser technology
worldwide.
Accord-
ing to Meduri, he was “intrigued” by the possibility of the laser and leased the systems for the season from June until October. “It has been a success story ever since,” he explains. The Agrilaser laser bird deterrent technology takes advantage of a bird’s natural instincts, with birds perceiving an approaching laser beam as a predator and taking flight to seek safety. Meduri Farms
Laser a day keeps A the birds at bay
installed six Agrilaser Autonom-
numerous
universities
ics equipped with solar panels at
in the US, fruit grow-
the outer areas of his farm project-
ers lose tens of millions of dollars
ing the blueberry bushes, therefore,
each year as a result of birds dam-
preventing birds from coming near
aging crops, often because of meth-
the plantings.
jefferson—Justin Meduri has tapped
ods designed to repel them are
“Previously we had to work hard
into an innovative solution to protect his
ineffective. Oregon and Washing-
to keep the birds away,” Meduri con-
ton incur the biggest blueberry crop
tinues. “Last year before the lasers,
damage caused by birds – the per-
we experienced the highest damage
hectare figure amounts to US$4,571
incurred by birds ever. Now with
in Oregon and is calculated at
the lasers, we don’t even have to
US$11.2m for the entire state.
worry about it – we simply have no
blueberry crops from the threat of birds. by Carl Collen
246
ccording to research by
Justin Meduri, farm operations
issue anymore.” As a result of the
manager of Meduri Farms in Jeffer-
bird deterrent lasers, Meduri Farms
TOP & ABOVE—The Agrilaser Automatic has saved Meduri
son, Oregon, was one of the grow-
saved 578,713 lbs (262,500 kg) of blue-
Farms nearly US$100,000 since its introduction
ers suffering from the adverse
berries worth US$99,733. _ E
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.246.indd 246
06/12/2017 09:33
Untitled-3 1
04/12/2017 15:06
FEATURES
REPORT —Packaging and technology
It’s only Logika, captain
with its modular production system allows us to always create a tailormade products,” said the group’s Omar Papi. “Thanks to the different type of transport systems, we can work the more rounded and tradi-
cesena—Futura will showcase its Logika
tional fruits, such as apples, peach-
grading range at this year’s Fruit Logistica,
es, apricots and citrus, as well as
tailored for a range of demands.
those of an irregular shape like avocados, mangoes, pomegranates and onions.”
by Carl Collen
Logika selects fruits through parameters such as weight, diameter and colour, with each of these factor
F
ruit technology and equipment specialist
applied either individually or in com-
Futura will present its Logika grading line
bination. The so ware has a user-
concept to the industry at this year’s Fruit
friendly approach, Papi explains,
Logistica in Berlin. According to the Italian company,
while also including a range of fea-
the line guarantees reliability, quality and attention to
tures such as the Futura app, Futura
detail expected of a Made in Italy product, and will be
Smart Grading, which allows the
presented in two formats in Berlin – Logika Lateral Dis-
company
charge for reduced production requirements of up to
remotely. _ E
to
monitor
machines
five tonnes per hour, and Logika Central Discharge for higher demands of up to 20 tonnes per hour. “Simplicity, speed of customisation and adaption to different needs are Logika’s jewel in the crown, which
p.248.indd 248
ABOVE—Logika can move up to 20
tonnes of produce per hour
07/12/2017 10:15
Untitled-2 1
07/12/2017 10:55
FEATURES
REPORT —Packaging and technology
25 years of R savings
eusable
Plastic
Con-
sive data confirms our shared and reusable business
tainers (rpcs) from Ger-
model benefits our customers and helps make the
many-based
world a better place at the same time.”
Ifco
have
played a major role in creating
The company’s rpcs have been used for 9.5bn
supply chain savings since the for-
trips since the company was founded, Ifco’s research
mation of the group, according to
found. The use of those rpcs led to a labour and han-
new data released by the company
dling cost-savings of more than US$1.1bn, and a sav-
to mark its 25th anniversary. An Ifco
ings of more than US$3.6bn in reduced product
its products reduce labour
study found that it has generated
damage rates when compared with the use of one-
costs, food waste and
US$5.2bn in supply chain savings
way packaging. In addition, the use of Ifco rpcs also
since 1992, with cost reductions
generated a savings of US$605m from equipment,
coming in the form of reduced
space and transport efficiencies. Ifco’s study also
labour and handling costs, reduced
showed that its rpcs are a “more effective method for
product damage rates and equip-
replenishing fresh produce” versus cardboard boxes.
ment, space and transport efficien-
The research showed rpcs are up to six times faster
cies provided by using rpcs versus
for apples and five times faster for peppers, effective-
one-way packaging.
ly reducing labour costs.
pullach—Data released by rpc specialist Ifco confirms
environmental impact. by Carl Collen
“Ifco rpcs have inherent attri-
“rpcs are the fastest type of fresh produce packag-
butes that make them the ideal
ing because forward-thinking retailers and growers
choice for packaging, transporting,
understand they are more efficient, cost-effective and
storing and displaying fresh food,”
sustainable,” Orgeldinger adds. “We look forward to
says Wolfgang Orgeldinger, chief
working with our value chain partners for another 25
executive of Ifco. “This impres-
years and beyond to build a be er supply chain.” _ E
Being the standard is only half our story
SERVICE
#23
WE ADJUST WELL TO YOUR SPECIFIC NEEDS
Discover the benefits of our 34 supply chain services Did you know there is a world of services behind our trays? From track and trace solutions to reverse logistics and everything in between. Our services are tailored to your logistics processes, so they always add value to your business. For more information please visit europoolsystem.com
The packaging standard in the fresh supply chain
250
Euro Pool System Ad Grape ENG 171x127+3mm HR.indd january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.250.indd 250
1
Euro Pool System UK Ltd ++44 1527 901109 info.uk@europoolsystem.com
24-11-17 13:49:40
05/12/2017 18:00
We see a lot more than you can imagine
GLOBALSCAN
IDD4
INSIGTH 2T & 2R
SOFTNESSCAN
External measurements Quality selection
Internal measurements Internal Defect Detection
Internal measurements Sugar rate - Brix Index
Internal measurements Soft Spots Detection
Come to see demonstration of our latest upgraded and innovative electronic sorting solutions Visit us: Hall 4.1, Stand C-02
7|8|9 FEBRUARY 2018 | BERLIN
Visit our website: www.maf-roda.com
SORTING
MAF RODA AGROBOTIC_EUROFRUIT_Insertion_Full Page_January 2018 issue_v2.indd 1
HANDLING
GRADING
PACKING
06/12/2017 17:36:52
FEATURES
REPORT —Packaging and technology
Brand building
“User of the Go Real-Time prod-
tions,” says chairman and chief exec-
ucts are on the go as much as their
utive officer David Farr. “We are
cargo,” notes Frank Landwehr, vice-
invigorated as we enter fiscal 2018.
st louis—Global tech and engineering
president and general manager of
Emerson is now wholly aligned
company unveils new consolidated brand
cargo solutions for Emerson’s com-
around our two business platforms,
mercial and residential solutions
which gives our teams clear direc-
platform. “Oversight Mobile gives
tion and an unwavering focus on
our customers the freedom to be
serving our customers and profit-
anywhere and still maintain com-
ably building these world class busi-
plete control over their shipments.
nesses
The app’s robust feature set coupled
inorganic opportunities.” _
for temperature tracker and logger products. by Carl Collen
E
through
organic
and
E
merson has incorporated several products
with an intuitive design makes this
into its own-brand suite of solutions as part
tool invaluable for real-time cargo
of a move to consolidate its range. Go Real-
visibility and offers convenience and
Time temperature trackers, formerly marketed by Locus
peace of mind for our global user
BELOW—Users can manage their
Traxx, and Go Loggers, previously marketed by Paksense,
community.”
shipment from a smart device
ABOVE—Temperature trackers and Go
Loggers under one consolidated brand
which are now included in a full Emerson-branded suite of solutions that monitor and protect perishable goods
RESULTS REINVIGORATION
in the supply chain. It follows the announcements in
Emerson also released a strong set of
August 2016 of Emerson’s acquisitions of Locus Traxx
results for the 12 months ended Sep-
and Paksense, which subsequently formed the group’s
tember 2017, with full-year net sales
new cargo solutions business unit.
coming in at US$15.3bn, an increase
“With these acquisitions, we are expanding our lead-
of 5 per cent. Underlying sales grew 1
ership in helping growers, food processors, shippers,
per cent excluding slightly unfavour-
retailers and others to improve temperature controls,
able currency effects and an impact
product quality and cargo monitoring throughout the
from acquisitions of 4 per cent.
supply chain,” says Mark Dunson, Emerson’s group vice-
Underlying sales turned positive
president of electronics & solutions. “These expanded
in the second half of the fiscal year
capabilities also help customers meet regulatory require-
reflecting strengthening global eco-
ments for food quality and safety and reduce global
nomic conditions, the group noted.
waste,” he adds.
252
“Fiscal 2017 was an important
Meanwhile, Emerson has also released its Oversight
year for Emerson as we successfully
Mobile application for Go Real-Time Trackers, which
completed the strategic portfolio
enables users to manage shipments from start to finish
repositioning announced over two
and view data directly from their smartphones in real-
years ago, and our global manage-
time, rather than by logging into a computer. The app is
ment teams executed extremely well
Android and iOS compatible and is available in several
to deliver strong earnings and cash
languages, according to Emerson.
flow against difficult market condi-
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.252.indd 252
05/12/2017 18:00
Untitled-1 1
06/12/2017 09:19
FEATURES
REPORT —Packaging and technology LEFT—Enrique Guillén BELOW—The company’s Octagonal box is
ideal for long journeys
and
inter-
locking points
Smurfit Kappa puts innovation centre stage
allow
trays
of
mixed loads and sizes to be stacked. The P84-8 features a tearaway top that allows it to be converted into a display box, while the P84-10 features a double bo om
madrid—Europe’s leading corrugated packaging company
and cover that significantly reduces
showcased its latest offerings for the fruit and vegetable
buckling and improves resistance. The company’s new table grape
industry at Fruit Attraction.
cartons, meanwhile, can carry a load of up to 5kg and are durable enough
by Maura Maxwell
to withstand up to three months in storage. Potential customers have an
P
ackaging specialist Smurfit Kappa is target-
With sales of more than
opportunity to try out all of these
ing new opportunities in online distribution
€8.2bn, Smurfit Kappa is
new products first hand at Smurfit
to shore up its position as the leading provider
one of the leading global
Kappa’s Experience Centre in Alcalá
of packaging solutions for the Spanish fruit and vegeta-
manufacturers of corrugated
de Henares, Madrid. It is one of a
ble industry.
cardboard packaging. The
global network of facilities featur-
company employs 45,000
ing state-of-the-art exhibitions, store
Smurfit Kappa Spain and Portugal, believes Spain’s bur-
employees in 34 countries and
visualisers and inspiration rooms
geoning e-commerce market is bursting with potential.
operates 370 manufacturing
allowing customers to understand
The sector, which posted double-digit growth last year,
plants worldwide.
how the products work.
Enrique Guillén, sales and marketing director for
requires specific packaging solutions that meet the criteria of trading online. “These materials have to be manu-
or 180kg, the box features a unique
tion centre provides a place for cus-
factured in such a way that not only protects the products
eight-sided design that improves ver-
tomers to get hands-on experience
inside, but also optimises the logistics chain and creates
tical resistance and facilitates stack-
of how packaging impacts every step
the best experience for the consumer and highlights the
ing, and can be assembled by a single
of the supply chain, right through to
company’s brand,” Guillén notes.
person. It is made with high quali-
the shopper and consumer,” explains
The company is also looking to consolidate its presence
ty 100 per cent recyclable virgin fibre
Jesús Riva, business development
in Portugal and Morocco and has made significant invest-
which can be printed with high qual-
and innovation manager at Smurfit
ments in the agricultural sectors in both markets.
ity graphics, giving companies the
Kappa Spain and Portugal.
Smurfit Kappa showcased its latest offerings for the fruit and vegetable industry at October’s Fruit A raction
254
“This design and experimenta-
means to differentiate their brand. Smurfit
Kappa
also
“It means customers can experi-
unveiled
ence first hand the opportunities
trade fair in Madrid, among them its Octagonal Box L for
the newest additions to its P84 tray
that working with us could afford
long distance transportation. With a capacity of 120kg
system, whose common footprint
their business.” _ E
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.254.indd 254
06/12/2017 09:40
PACKAGING THAT ENHANCES YOUR PRODUCT
Coveris’ revolutionary range of packaging solutions deliver unrivalled freshness, shelf life and integrity for your products.
www.coveris.co.uk Visit us: Hall 8.2, Stand B9
7722 COVERIS FPJ 210_297_ART.indd 1
28/11/2017 14:42
features
report —Packaging and technology
The sharp end of a trend kehl—Vegetable rice as a healthy addition to meals is a growing trend, and Kronen has just the machine for the job. by Carl Collen
K
ronen,
the
based
developer
Germany-
2mm to 12mm, strips from 2mm to
of
20mm and cubes from 3mm up to
machinery and process-
20mm, with a capacity of between
ing lines for washing, cutting, peel-
300kg to 3,000kg per hour. It can
ing and drying products, is proving
handle delicate products such as
to be right on trend with its kuj V
onions, peppers, mushrooms and
cutting machine.
tomatoes, in addition to larger dices
With a rise in demand for health-
of fruit such as apples or melons.
ier alternatives and more nutri-
“Kronen stands for high quality,”
tional dishes, fruit and vegetables
explains Stephan Zillgith, managing
– particularly in convenient forms –
director of Kronen. “And further-
are increasingly at the front of con-
more it is our continuous endeavour
sumers’ minds. The use of so-called
to listen to the industry, perceive
‘vegetable rice’ in meals, made up of
market trends and offer suitable
broccoli stems, cauliflower stems or
technology solutions for our cus-
cut carrots, is therefore perfect for
tomers, which allow them to success-
consumer groups eyeing healthier
fully expand their business. By
alternatives or additions.
offering kuj V’s vegetable rice pro-
This is where Kronen comes in,
cessing, we make the optimum pro-
because vegetable rice can be pro-
duction of another promising fresh
cessed using the kuj V machine,
vegetable product possible.” _ E
which cubes, strips and slices a vari-
p.256-257.indd 256
ety of fresh products in a fast and
LEFT—The kuj V can handle a wide range
simple way. The machine cuts from
of fresh products
07/12/2017 10:31
features
report —Packaging and technology
Heinen makes headway VARel—A commitment to improving the user experience for customers is keeping Heinen Freezing at the forefront of its field. by Carl Collen
tured
Heinen
a new service visit or a check if there are any prob-
Freezing has, for more
lems. This is mainly on the spiral machinery, which
than 30 years, manufac-
currently makes up 85 per cent of our supply, but
industrial
pasteurisation,
proofing, cooling and freezing sys-
in the future it should be available on all our other machinery.”
tems for the international food
Sustainable operations are becoming increas-
industry. The company is always
ingly important to Heinen’s customers, and the
looking to adapt and cater to its
company is reacting by introducing machinery com-
customers’ changing needs, and
ponents designed to save energy. “Our clients want
2017 was no different, with Heinen
to cut down on energy use, so we offer motors that
looking
small
use less energy, frequency controls for our fans, and
improvements and developments
to
make
many
freezers that conserve energy during the night,”
to its operations.
Hase continues.
“One of the most interesting
Among its wide range are products that freeze
items is our CondiMOT system,”
bulkable, small-scale foods including fruits and veg-
explains Michael Hase, area sales
etables, such as the blizzard fluidised bed freezer.
manager
Freezing.
“While many of our clients are in the bakery indus-
“This monitors all drives as well as
try, we are trying to increase our presence in the
ventilator motors to ensure their
frozen fruit and vegetable sector,” he notes.
for
Heinen
Looking ahead to 2018, Heinen will carry on
sent to the control panel to detect
making many small but significant improvements
errors or damage. It make things
to its systems, with the aim of getting greater
more convenient for the custom-
amounts of data to the customer at a faster rate and
er, they can then quickly arrange
improving connectivity. While the company’s main focus is in Europe and its adjoining countries, it is
BELOW—Heinen’s blizzard machinery,
used for fruit and vegetables
also eyeing the potential of the US market this year, Hase adds. _ E
fast. reliable. affordable. • freezing sys ng oli
s tem
proper function, with a signal
fast!
proofing • co
G
ermany-based
VI SER
ma
nuf ac
CE
tured by
February 7 - 9, 2018 | hall 3.1, stand no. C-08.
p.256-257.indd 257
07/12/2017 10:32
features
report —Transport and logistics
MCI’s star keeps rising
tant markets with low-perspiring perishables, which typically also have a high value.” Sustainability is clearly a priority at mci, and in 2017 the company took on two major green initiatives, start-
copenhagen—Allowing a greater variety of fruit and
ing with the introduction of the low carbon refrigerant
vegetables to be shipped further at optimum quality
r513a to its Star Cool units. Hapag-Lloyd was the first car-
remains central to Maersk Container Industry’s thinking.
rier to widely deploy the new refrigerant blend, which has a global warming potential of less than 56 per cent of the commonly used r513a refrigerant. mci also intro-
by Carl Collen
duced an energy meter feature integrated into all new Star Cool containers, to provide transparency into actual energy consumption throughout the transport window.
L
eading container devel-
and degree of ripeness. The system
This reliable energy measurement tool enables the ship-
oper and manufacturer
provides new cost-effective trade
ping industry to provide documented evidence of CO2
Maersk Container Indus-
opportunities for
fruit and vege-
emissions, right down to the individual reefer container.
try (mci) enjoyed a productive 2017,
table growers, shipping lines and
mci’s direct markets in the intermodal industry are
introducing several major develop-
retailers, while increasing choice for
shipping lines, leasing companies and fruit multination-
ments in the fields of cold chain,
the end consumer. Indeed, carriers
als including Dole, Chiquita and Compagnie Fruitière via
low carbon advances and digitali-
such as Africa Express Line (ael) and
ael, while it also works closely with fresh produce grow-
sation. The company, which counts
Hapag-Lloyd took on new orders for
ers and associations on developing technologies to bene-
refrigerated containers, dry con-
Star Cool Controlled Atmosphere
fit the transportation of perishable goods.
tainers and its Star Cool Controlled
integrated containers in 2017.
“We will continue to further develop the controlled
Atmosphere (CA) systems among
“Demand for a large variety of
atmosphere technology for even more types of fresh
its key products, saw growth in the
fruits and vegetables is increasing
produce to expand market opportunities for fruit
reefer container market over the
throughout the year,” says Søren
exporters,” Johannsen adds. “Digitalisation and trans-
past 12 months, describing it as a
Leth Johannsen, chief commercial
parency solutions will also be a continued focus in
strong year during which it built up
officer at mci. “We further devel-
which we see an interesting potential in the coming
its market share based on a broad
oped our existing controlled atmo-
years for both container lines and shippers to better
mix of container lines and leasing
sphere system with the specific goal
control the cold chain, and save time and costs.” _ E
companies.
of supporting our customers in tap-
In 2017, mci further developed
ping into these trade opportunities
its Star Cool controlled atmosphere
by enabling them to reach more dis-
technology
to
control
BELOW—MCI’s Star Cool controlled atmosphere containers
tempera-
ture and ripening during transport, allowing for extended market reach and covering a great range if fresh produce. Star Cool CA technology slows the ripening of fruits and vegetables, allowing them to be transported over longer distances and reaching their destination in optimal condition. According to mci, demand for these technologies is increasing, with more than 40,000 Star Cool CA in service across carrier fleets. The latest development, Star Cool CA+, builds on this to open up cost-effective ways to new markets for sensitive low respiring, high-quality perishables such as blueberries and lychees to be transported to the desired level of quality
258
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.258.indd 258
06/12/2017 12:53
Controlled Atmosphere Launched in 2009
Today +40,000 in service Preserves freshness Extends transport distance Brings more perishables to new markets
CA
CA+
For high respiring perishables
For low respiring perishables
Maersk Container Industry // www.mcicontainers.com
features
report —Transport and logistics
Fighting fit copenhagen—Despite some major challenges, including last June’s high-profile cyber attack, Maersk Line has turned in another strong set of financial results. by Carl Collen
he past year has not
mentals stayed positive with global container volume
It has also been a year of break-
been without incident or
growth at 5 per cent in the third quarter compared to
ing records for the company. A new
news for shipping giant
the same period last year and an increase in nominal
benchmark was set on 9 June at the
Maersk Line, the container shipping
supply of 3 per cent,” he said. “However, contingency ini-
port of Antwerp, when the Madrid
arm of logistics giant AP Møller-
tiatives related to recovery after the cyber-attack result-
Maersk moored there for the first
Maersk. In June, the group went as
ed in a negative development in Maersk Line volumes
time. With a length of 399 metres
far as to shut down its systems pro-
of 2.5 per cent and increase in unit cost of 3.9 per cent at
and a capacity of 20,568 teu, the
actively following the NotPetya ran-
fixed bunker prices.”
vessel was the largest container
T
260
somware attack, a cyber crime that
The group’s hard work was rewarded when it was
cost the group up to US$300m –
named Container Operator of the Year at the annual
ship ever to call at the port.
but even this failed to prevent the
Lloyd’s List Asia Awards in Singapore. The judges select-
important
company turning in a strong set of
ed Maersk for its continuous network advancements,
during 2017. Maersk Line Oceania
results for the third quarter of 2017.
market leading digital solutions and trade finance.
announced the appointment of My
Meanwhile, there were several personnel
changes
Indeed, Maersk Line reported an
Maersk Line has introduced several improvements
Therese Blank as the company’s
underlying profit of US$211m and
to its services and product offerings over 2017. The
new Australia sales director and
a positive roic of 4.3 per cent for
shipping line added another service on its Asia-North
country manager in June, and the
the third quarter, with AP Møller-
Europe trade route, while new services have been
group appointed Omar Shamsie as
Maersk AS Transport & Logistics
established between Asia and the US East Coast, along
its new president of Maersk Line in
– of which Maersk Line is a part –
with Asia and West Africa. Maersk has also invested in
North America in December. _ E
showing revenue growth of 14 per
remote container management (rcm) and blockchain
cent to US$8bn, driven mainly by
technologies, becoming the first shipping company to
higher revenue in Maersk Line,
offer reefer customers real time data about the state of
Søren Skou, ceo of AP Møller-
their cargo, including location, temperature, humidity
Maersk
and other conditions.
noted.
“Market
funda-
ABOVE—The Madrid Maersk, the largest
container ship to call at Antwerp Photo: Antwerp Port Authority
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.260.indd 260
06/12/2017 12:52
Ultimate visibility with Remote Container Management
Maersk Line offers you full cargo visibility with Remote Container Management. This technology will reduce the risk of food spoilage and ensure arrival of goods in the best possible condition. Discover how you and your business can benefit from this innovative technology.
Visit and sign up at www.maerskline.com/rcm
Your promise. Delivered.
2017_NOV_LO_CENMKT_Expertise_RCM Avocado_Full Page Ad_EN.indd 1
23/11/2017 8:36:11 PM
features
report —Transport and logistics
Seatrade evaluated its global strategic options considering market conditions, including future involvement in the Meridian service
Seatrade alters VSA antwerp—Following a re-evaluation of its strategic options, the reefer vessel leader has opted to restructure the vessel sharing agreement it has with cma cgm.
restructure the vsa,” the group explained. “The service
by Carl Collen
will be upgraded to a weekly service as from January 2018, and will, among other vessels, utilise Seatrade’s fully cellular and geared 2,200-teu Colour Class special-
S
eatrade, the world’s larg-
ern Europe, the east coast of the US,
ised container vessels, combined with container equip-
est reefer vessel operator
Central America, the Pacific Islands,
ment currently controlled by Seatrade.
and owner, has revealed
Australia, New Zealand, Peru and
that the vessel sharing agreement
the Caribbean on a weekly basis.
“Seatrade is pleased to have reached this agreement with cma cgm securing continuation, schedule reliabili-
(vsa) announced in 2017 between
However, the group said that it
ty and highest possible service level for Seatrade’s major
itself and cma cgm will not pro-
had evaluated its global strategic
ceed in its intended form. Accord-
options considering market condi-
While the involvement of Seatrade in the New Zea-
ing to Seatrade, which operates over
tions – an evaluation that includes
land to northern Europe trade is reduced, Seatrade
100 specialised vessels transporting
its future involvement in the Merid-
explained that it will continue to provide its Fast Direct
perishable cargo across the globe,
ian Service. “Seatrade has reached
Dedicated services to worldwide markets for transpor-
the original service linked north-
an agreement with cma cgm to
tation of perishable cargo. _ E
customers in the trade,” Seatrade added.
Grow your understanding of the fresh produce business Packed with carefully cultivated news, information and analysis, Fruitnet.com is the only website that keeps you fully updated with all of the top stories from the global fresh produce trade.
Part of Fruitnet Media International London 132 Wandsworth Road, London SW8 2LB, United Kingdom Tel +44 20 7501 3700 | Fax +44 20 7501 0306 | fruitnet.com
262
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.262.indd 262
Untitled-4 1
meLbourne 77a Stubbs St, Kensington, Melbourne, Vic 3031, Australia Tel +61 3 9040 1602 | Fax +61 3 9376 6052 | fruitnet.com
01/09/2017 11:08
06/12/2017 12:51
Untitled-2 1
07/12/2017 14:40
dispatches report —Climate change
Facing up to climate change london—Despite the continuing denial coming from the White House and much of the press, the agriculture sector is already responding to the initial effects of climate change and evolving to meet future challenges. by Tom Joyce
T
he mainstream media have come in for
the rise in sea levels and the increase
Engelsman believes that serious
criticism from leading climate change
in moisture in the atmosphere did
action is becoming inevitable as cli-
experts over coverage of the spate of
not begin in January 2017.
mate change turns mainstream.
natural disasters to hit south Asia, the
“Climate change was once the conChange inevitable
cern of green, idealistic circles,” he
in 2017. Journalists were so careful to avoid jumping to the
“It’s a shame what Trump thinks,
says. “Now it’s right at the fore for
conclusion that any extreme weather phenomenon was
but it doesn’t matter,” says Volkert
finance companies, investors, risk
caused by man-made climate change that most somehow
Engelsman, the founder of Dutch
analysts and management consul-
contrived to omit any mention of it whatsoever.
organics and sustainability specialist
tants. Banks have always conduct-
The arrival of a climate change denier in the White
Eosta and a prominent campaigner
ed financial stress tests, but now
House will have concerned many in the farming commu-
on ethical and environmental issues.
they do planetary stress tests too,
nity. However, it is worth remembering that the US pres-
“Investors,
companies,
as those that are exposed may be
ident’s speedy withdrawal from the Paris Agreement has
multinationals – these are the ones
an investment or loan risk. Climate
done nothing to worsen the current state of the planet.
that will drive change, and eventually
change threatens a company’s ability
Yet the problem is all too real: the rise in sea temperatures,
they will force governments to act.”
to make a profit once carbon taxes or
Caribbean and the south-east of the US
insurance
other measures hit the market. And they will – the question is when.” According to Engelsman, a major problem is an obsession with shortterm productivity, which undermines our long-term ability to grow. “We need to move away from productivity as the only variable,” he says. “We are already blasting through the boundaries of our planet as identified by [environmental science professor] Johan Rockström. What we need is climate-smart agriculture, which
LEFT—Volkert Engelsman, chief
executive and founder of Eosta OPPOSITE—Climate change campaigners
take to the streets in Washington DC
264
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.264-265.indd 264
06/12/2017 09:42
dispatches
means
water-
Last year, Peru experienced flood-
smart and soil-smart. There’s an
biodiversity-smart,
ing while Europe suffered from the
awareness war between short-term
spring frosts. The weather is the most
and long-term investors, but the long-
important factor at the moment,
term ones are finally starting to win.”
more important than varieties or look at any product that grows well
The threat of climate change will also
in the local environment.”
necessitate more flexible approaches
Engelsman agrees: “We’ve met
to farming, says Don Cameron, gen-
plenty of farmers changing their
eral manager of Californian produce
ways, especially in dry places like
grower Terranova Ranch. He explains
Namibia, South Africa, China and
that growers in the Golden State are
Argentina. You used to see farmers
already dealing with the effects of cli-
in these places getting rid of all the
mate change.
weeds with glyphosate. Now you see
Photo: Alex Dixon, PA
markets. At Ghabbour Farms, we will Flexible approach
“They might not have climate
people cutting back on their use of
of soil fertility through rotations, cover crops and manur-
change in Washington, but we defi-
mineral fertilisers, which are expen-
ing can increase water retention in soil and offer a better
nitely have climate change in Califor-
sive and deplete your soil or leak into
response to droughts and floods and reduce the need for
nia,” he tells the Financial Times. “We
the groundwater and atmosphere.
irrigation.”
didn’t have a pistachio crop a couple
It is easier to handle droughts and
of years ago because there weren’t
floods when you have healthy soils.
Beyond awareness
enough chill hours over winter. We’re
In Orange River, in southern Namib-
Despite efforts by some to obfuscate the dangers
seeing extreme heat, drought and
ia, the heatwaves are destroying
that lie ahead – the most cynical being the Trump
extreme flooding.”
farmers’ crops, so they are looking at
administration’s removal of the phrase “climate change”
alternative products to grow.”
from the Environmental Protection Agency website –
He adds: “We are using groundwater recharge via flooding so we can
knowledge of the threat will only grow in the future as
make it through the drought. We’re
Organic solution
also looking at different varieties of
In
rising
refugee crisis is just one example, beginning as it did with
crops that can withstand different
temperatures, water scarcity and
the displacement of hundreds of thousands in the south
scenarios, and we’ve been trying to
more
weather
of the country due to drought. A combination of climate
change our planting and harvesting
events will make producing food
change and widespread pesticide use is also believed to be
patterns to take advantage of warmer
more and more difficult. For the
responsible for the collapse in numbers of pollinators that
temperatures.”
much
of
regular
the
the effects become increasingly apparent. The Syrian world,
extreme
UK’s Soil Association, it will be
are an essential part of the production process. However,
Large areas of East Africa, includ-
necessary not only to invest in more
according to Engelsman, making real change will take
ing swathes of Kenya, Somalia
resilient farming systems, but also
more than just awareness.
and Ethiopia, experienced severe
to reduce greenhouse gas emissions
“If you want to deliver change, you need to co-cre-
droughts in 2017. In Kenya, measures
from agriculture, pointing to organic
ate, which is a social challenge,” he says. “That requires a
to address food shortages, such as lift-
farming as the best solution.
shift in consciousness. There is a systemic failure in our
ing import duties, came too late, with
Organic farms emit fewer green-
economic system, and we desperately need new ways of
basics like corn rapidly becoming lux-
house gases and use less energy than
thinking. There’s nothing wrong with profit, but not at
uries. The conditions have reported-
conventional farms, while sustain-
the expense of people and planet. This is where true cost
ly left as many as 3.4m Kenyans in
ably managed soils store up to 450kg
accounting comes in.”
urgent need of food assistance.
more carbon per hectare than non-
True cost accounting is a means of calculating a prod-
In Egypt, where water is far less
organic farms, leaching 35-65 per cent
uct’s overall cost, including its impact on health, climate,
scarce, growers are nevertheless
less nitrogen, says the Soil Associ-
water quality and soil erosion. A 2017 study by Eosta found
trying to remain flexible to cope with
ation’s Honor Eldridge. Converting
that its organic apples were in fact €0.19 cheaper per kilo
changing local conditions. “One of
half of EU land to organics by 2030
than their conventional counterparts when external costs
the biggest future challenges for us
would cut agricultural emissions
were taken into account.
is in adapting to climate change,” says
by around 23 per cent, according to
Part of Engelsman’s motivation stems from his belief
Hassan Zaher, sales and marketing
ifoam and the Research Institute of
that the agriculture sector has a particular duty to act.
director at exporter Ghabbour Farms.
Organic Agriculture (fibl)
“Agriculture plays a major role in terms of greenhouse gas
“You’re seeing hurricanes, storms, fires
“Through
crop
diversification,
emissions and biodiversity loss, so we have a major respon-
and floods become more frequent.
agroforestry and integrated livestock
sibility to act,” he says. “But there is also a huge commer-
The scientists’ predictions were clear-
management systems, we can help
cial opportunity, offering progressive companies the
ly conservative. It is happening now,
to create more climate-resilient sys-
chance to compete not just on price, but also on health,
and everyone is affected somehow.
tems,” says Eldridge. “Management
the environment and social responsibility.” _ E
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.264-265.indd 265
265
06/12/2017 09:42
ESSAYS
Editing the future málaga
David del Pino FRESHTRATEGY @_DavidDelPino
By making their ground-breaking gene editing technology available to all, Broad Institute and Dupont-Pioneer have done humanity a huge service.
David is founder of innovation, strategy, marketing, science and tech platform Freshtrategy
A
griculture – as we have
superhuman or any other super organism.
al institutions, and even with the
known it until now –
Until now, this technology was split into differ-
big corporations which we so o en
changed forever on 18
ent but complementary patent collections whose
accuse of selfishness and having
October 2017. The publication of a
rights belong to two groups, the Broad Institute and
hidden interests.
sterile press release issued in Cam-
Dupont-Pioneer, of which only the la er was working
I myself was deeply concerned
bridge, Massachusetts unleashed
on its potential in agriculture. However on 18 October,
about how the two sets of pat-
the largest biotechnology race in
the two groups signed an agreement giving the other
ents were being protected and con-
agriculture since the Green Rev-
mutual access to their respective patents, as well as
trolled. Now, as the father of two
olution. So what exactly has hap-
providing free access to academic institutes and non-
young daughters, I would like to
pened?
profit research centres all over the world. The deal also
express my deep gratitude to the
population
paves the way for other agricultural research compa-
two researchers (both women) who
soars, biotechnology is emerging
nies to access the entire set of patents in the form of
initially developed the technology,
as the most important solution
non-exclusive licenses.
as well as to the Broad Institute
As
the
world’s
to avoid a future global food col-
This is hugely exciting. Faced with a dystopian
lapse. Until now, advances in this
future of famines and wars over the control of food,
field have been somewhat abstract
these organisations have opened up their technology
and ungraspable. All that changed,
to all those who can make a contribution to the most
however, in October 2017 with the
laudable goal there is: to feed humanity.
news that the Crispr-Cas9 gene
In short, the first stone has been laid for
editing system was being made
prosperity and world harmony.
available to agricultural research in its entirety.
and Dupont-Pioneer for making it available. Thank you for your contribution to the future of humanity. _ E
Just two weeks a er the agreement was signed, Syngenta acquired one of these non-exclusive licenses to use the technol-
WHAT
IS
CRISPR-CAS9
AND
news is extremely significant because Syn-
Crispr-Cas9 opens a new era of
genta is a key player in the global seeds and
genetic engineering in which you
agricultural inputs business which has
can edit, alter or correct the genome
just been bought by ChemChina and
of any cell in an easy, fast, cheap
is, therefore, a direct competitor to
and, above all, highly accurate way.
Dupont-Pioneer.
It is a unique technology that ena-
I hope I have
bles geneticists and researchers to
been
remove, add or alter sections of the
convey
dna sequence so that anything pos-
importance
sible within the limits of a particu-
what
lar species can be reproduced.
pened,
and
the
impact
it
will
This opens the door to the
266
ogy to develop new plant varieties. The
WHY IS IT SO IMPORTANT?
able
to the
has
of hap-
complete redesign of any living
have on our lives
organism. Human beings can be
and those of future genera-
modelled to order with specific
tions. And also, how events such
a ributes such as height; eye, skin
as this should reconcile us with
and hair colour or resistance to
our way of life, our advanced soci-
disease. In short, we can design a
eties, democratic and education-
ABOVE—Crispr-Cas9: a game changer
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.266-267.indd 266
06/12/2017 09:46
ESSAYS
Natalie Berg PLANET RETAIL @Natalie_Berg Natalie is Retail Insights Director at specialist strategic consultancy Planet Retail
1
With Whole Foods in its basket, what can Amazon deliver? london
Following Amazon’s US$13.7bn takeover of Whole Foods, here are three areas in which the takeover could change their respective operations.
Whole Foods Market branding to be reduced significantly or disappear altogether once Amazon establishes trust and credibility in its fresh food offering. This isn’t going to happen overnight. Right now, Amazon needs Whole Foods for a number of reasons: strength in
3
Whole Foods stores may see entire categories disappear. As other analysts have pointed out, there is no point maintaining the status quo. I suspect stores will:
perishables, brand equity, overlap in customer base, not to mention bricks
• Become more tech-driven/automated.
and mortar presence; but Amazon’s current grocery offering – think Ama-
• Feature mini showrooms for Amazon devices to drive
zonFresh, Prime Pantry, Subscribe & Save, Prime Now – is convoluted and ripe for consolidation.
its broader ecosystem. • Act as a collection and returns point for online orders:
In future, if Amazon is truly going to make its mark in grocery, it will need one cohesive message both online and in store. This must be centred around Prime, which has become the gateway to Amazon’s most sought a er services, including those with incremental fees such as the above.
a huge opportunity that would drive traffic to supermarkets while providing shoppers with additional choice. • Strongly encourage shoppers to become Prime members through special perks and exclusive discounts. Could we see Prime-only checkouts or vip collection points?
2
Amazon will democratise online grocery.
Although unlikely, we also can’t rule out a tiered pricing
I wasn’t entirely shocked by an acquisition to boost Ama-
model. There would have to be zero price disparity on the
zon’s grocery and bricks-and-mortar presence. In fact,
essentials – shoppers would vote with their feet otherwise
I predicted they wouldn’t have a meaningful impact on
– but perhaps Prime members would have access to exclu-
the grocery sector for at least another five years without
sive promotions in more discretionary categories.
acquiring someone. What did surprise me was that they chose a supermarket with such niche, premium appeal.
• Longer-term, I suspect we’ll see some pretty major category shi s. A physical store presence means Amazon
You can argue this makes sense given: overlap with Prime shoppers; tar-
can finally move into pharmaceuticals. Five to ten years
geted demographic with high propensity to buy online; a differentiated offer-
from now, I can absolutely see certain functional, routine-
ing in the crowded grocery sector is no bad thing. However, Amazon wants
driven purchases – think toilet paper, pet food, cleaning
to be everything to everyone, and is just about the only retailer in the world
products – move almost entirely out of the store as
that can. It clearly sees a need to broaden its customer base. It may be pigeon-
Amazon looks to make auto-replenishment a reality, free-
holing itself by focusing on premium groceries, but I suspect we will see
ing up stores to focus on fresh food, meals for tonight and
lower prices – online and in store – and the introduction of more price-sensi-
value-added services. _ E
tive brands in future. Expect to see Whole Foods’ private label ranges gain greater visibility online and across Amazon’s various devices, including 365 Dash bu ons and Alexa. I imagine Amazon will push Wickedly Prime and Amazon Elements in Whole Foods Market stores, but I suspect the remaining brands they have been experimenting with will quietly disappear.
RIGHT—Amazon
needs Whole Foods market for a number of different reasons
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.266-267.indd 267
267
06/12/2017 09:46
ESSAYS
Gilad Sadan NAVI CO GLOBAL gilad@navicoglobal.com Gilad Sadan is chief executive of packaging consultancy Navi Co Global and brings with him years of experience in Australia’s plastic packaging industry.
Catering for today’s urban consumer melbourne
From fruit-filled vending machines to shelf-ready boxes, here are some ways convenience is being built into fresh produce retail.
On the move The modern-day urban consumer is looking for healthy snacks at non-traditional outlets, items which can be accessed during their busy schedules. Healthy vending machines, convenience stores and petrol stations, along with shops in airports and train stations are all examples where this trend is coming into play. Many stores have limited shelf space, so there is a need to optimise whatever room is provided.
Packing for snacking Snacking on fresh fruit and vegetables is becoming increasingly popular. That trend is creating a growing need to develop smaller packaging formats that can enable consumers to find healthy options on the go. What we are seeing is a great proliferation of packaging styles around the globe, including more and more bags of items like sliced apples, carrots, celery, mini cucumbers and tomatoes. Some of these come with additional ways to enhance the eating experience, such as seasoning or dips. Elsewhere, top-seal snacking punnets and cups are fabulous formats that lend themselves to ‘dashboard dining’ – if they fit in a car’s cup-holder, they are more likely to fit in with a budy consumer’s lifestyle. Meanwhile, a lack of shelf space and a need to replenish stock quickly means we’re seeing more shelf-ready boxes, which can add opportunities for branding and create a ractive point-of-sale displays.
268
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.268-269.indd 268
11/12/2017 14:48
ESSAYS
A new age in marketing Following on from the healthy snacking trend, there’s also a greater focus on healthy eating for children. Marketers are looking for innovative and engaging ways to entice younger consumers (and their parent purchasers) to enjoy these snacks or, more accurately, demand that their parents buy them. Alongside this trend, we’re seeing a greater use of very colourful artwork and branding that is directed specifically at children. A great recent example is Dole’s use of characters and graphics from Star Wars (see full report p218-220) as well as other Disney characters.
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.268-269.indd 269
269
11/12/2017 14:48
DISPATCHES
BLOG POST —Loading Bay
tags
01 JAN
waste
aesthetics
christmas
Posted by Tom Joyce
The onion of my eye Around ten years ago, I was shopping for a few groceries with a friend, rummaging among the onions for a good one, when she asked, “Why do you care what an onion looks like on the outside?” I looked up at her. I glanced back at the onions. I didn’t know why. Perhaps I thought I was being discerning, but more probably I was just running on automatic pilot. My automatic pilot likes to rummage through vegetable bins, you see. Thinking back, I imagine I was hoping to gain an insight into the inner quality of each onion by examining its outer peel. In reality, I had no idea what I was doing. My lack of trust in the supply chain meant I preferred to rely on my own sorely lacking knowledge. Evidently I was doing what so many consumers do: buying with my eyes. Yet my eyes couldn’t even see the edible bit. It was like the blind leading the blind through the grocery department. Challenged by my friend, the scales fell from my eyes, and I resolved to buy the gnarliest onion available. When I sliced it open back home, the layers beyond that desperately unattractive exterior were so flawless, I might even have shed a tear. But my friend’s question was equally relevant for fruit and vegetables that aren’t blessed with a sturdy, protective outer peel. Why do we care so much about external appearance when actually it’s the taste we want? Is it because blemishes and defects might cause the rest of the fruit to go off more quickly? Possibly, but are we in fact subconsciously a empting to reduce food waste by picking only the most aesthetically pleasing fruit? No, of course we’re not. An adoration of perfection remains a sticking point for countless consumers when it comes to buying fruit and vegetables online. They want to be able to pick out the ‘best’ item themselves. In reality, of course, they are merely choosing the best-looking product, basing that decision typically on what is relatively scant personal knowledge. What makes us think we’re the best person to pick our own produce? The answer is that we have our own eyes, and it is they that are frequently responsible for restricting our food choices based on mere aesthetics. At the Fruitnet office in London, we collected items to donate to the local food bank during the run-up to Christmas. It’s that time of year when the poor and needy invariably suffer the most, while everyone else hits a perverse peak of wastefulness. In my family, my father pretended to be concerned with excess by banning Christmas presents when I was 12. I can only imagine how much waste this Scrooge-inspired system might have saved. But couldn’t we just have been extra-cautious about our choice of gi ? Something fully recyclable, for example? Edible even? In many countries in the Middle East, a fruit basket makes for a perfectly acceptable gi . Too late now. My girlfriend, returning from a business trip in December, walked through the front door beaming: “I just bought myself the most beautiful Christmas present,” she announced. All I could picture was an absolutely stunning onion. _ E
270
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.270 Loading Bay.indd 270
06/12/2017 12:51
DISPATCHES
REPORT ADVERTISER INDEX —About Aartsenfruit
113
Fruitnet.com
262
Port of Zeebrugge
Agricola Don Camillo
245
Fruitnet Events 2018
151
Portugal Fresh
Agrofresh
127
Fruitnet World of Fresh Ideas 2018
35
PPECB
161
Fruits Protofanousi
141
Procomer
205
Anecoop APNM Apofruit Argentinean Blueberry Committee
81 173 61 187
25
Rajpol Trade
139
201
REO Veiling
104 158
91
Richard Hochfeld Group
Future Lab
73
Rijk Zwaan
117
Global Berry Congress 2018
185
San Miguel
171
2
Ghabbour Farms
180
SATI
169
77
41
Asiafruit Congress 2018
231
Battaglio
FrutaFino
93
Frutas Montosa
Asia Fruit Logistica 2018 Asoex
Fruta Cloud
195
Global Fruit Point
133
Seatrade
263
Bayer CropScience
135
GlobalGAP
134
Sensitech
239
Belco
179
Golden Wing Mau
27
Sinclair
247
Goodfarmer
BC
Sorma Group
71
101
Special Fruit
107
BelOrta
99
BFV
109
Greenyard (Univeg)
Blue Whale
130
Grupo Coliman
49
Subscription form
Botanicoir
153
Gullino Import-Export
66
SunFresh Harvest
Bühler UK Limited
241
Halls
Camposol
193
Capespan
165
45 39
155
The Apples from Grojec
137
Hazera Seeds
119
Timerfruit
227
Heinen Freezing
257
UGPBAN
57
83
Helexpo
140
Unitec
65
ClemenGold
167
HillFresh
111
Unitec/Unisorting
249
Cobana
147
HillFresh
BELLYWRAP
Vick Family Farms
219
70
Hortgro
163
VLAM
11
244
VOG
21
Citrosol
Cold Energy Commercial Fruits
125
Infia
Compac
243
Interpoma
Consorfrut
138
Ishida Europe
Cooperative Hoogstraten
103
Jingold
237 67
Corbana
90
Coveris
255
Koppert
235
Crimson Snow
79
Kronen
256
Decco
89
LBP Rotterdam
115
Limoneira
211
DNE International DOGK2018 Dole Germany
217
Kiku
55
37
Macfrut
53
Maersk Container Industry
259
Maersk Line
261
EarlyCrop
189
MAF Roda
251
Ekland Marketing
223
Marionnet
131
Emerson
253
McAirlaid’s
248
Enzafruit
105
Mercabarna
85
European Convenience Forum 2018
213
Mission Produce
15
European Tomato Forum 2018
149
Mohammed A Sharbatly
Euro Pool System
250
Muddy Boots Software
242
Nature’s Pride
121
Eva Apples
159
Naturitalia
Fall Creek Farm & Nursery
221
NAVI Co Global
Farzana Trading
5
63 269
NGK Trading
29
Fayed Export
177
Origine Group
59
Fresh Produce India 2018
233
Orri Jaffa
145
Özler Ziraat
148
Fresh Produce Forum 2018
7
95
Fruchthandel Branchen-Guide 2018
181
Pacific Produce
157
Fruchthansa
132
Pink Lady
129
Plant & Food Research
226
Fruit Logistica 2018
19
Wonderful Citrus Zespri
IBC BOOKMARK
31
IFC
87
168
69
Driscoll’s of Europe
Eurosemillas/Tango
Westfalia
Advertise in the next issue! Artur
+48 12 200 2129
Felix
+44 20 7501 0313
Giorgio +44 20 7501 3716
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.271 ad index.indd 271
271
12/12/2017 14:56
DISPATCHES
Counting down to China Fruit Logistica Follow me
The brand new trade show for China from the people at Fruit Logistica takes place in Shanghai on 14-16 May 2018. More at instagram.com/chrisfruitnet and follow the hashtag #freshideas
3,103 posts
1,699
followers
3,608
following
China for China
New show China Fruit Logistica is targeting Chinese home-grown fresh produce suppliers from across the whole of this huge country Growth categories
Berries and avocados are two of the key growth categories in the fresh produce business in China today Brand family
Will Wollbold heads up China Fruit Logistica, the newest extension of the brand family of trade shows located in Berlin and Hong Kong Conference component
Fresh Produce Forum China’s conference programme at China Fruit Logistica is put together by Asiafruit’s China editor Yuxin Yang
272
january 2018 - eurofruit magazine
p.272 Photo blog.indd 272
06/12/2017 09:51
Discover More
>>>
I’ve got the
BLUES
for you!
...AND SOME BLACK GOLD TOO. Following the success of our leading quality raspberries, the time has come for our blackberries and blueberries to conquer European hearts too. With our year-round blueberry programme we’ll be delivering premium quality all year long. Together with our first-rate sweet-tasting blackberries they will change the category. So please join the trend and discover the sweet taste of this opportunity …
430.01.021 Driscoll's - advertenties 2018 WT v3.indd 1
11/12/2017 16:21