“Citrus fruit consumption was not good as sales were slow even though demand was relatively constant. Prices should go up now, as volumes are diminishing. We are expecting €0.05 (USD 0.05)-0.10 (USD 0.11) more for extra-quality produce,” explains Daniele Gotto, CAAT agronomist.
The months of November and December were quite negative for citrus fruit, as temperatures did not favour ripening. This type of fruit in fact needs low temperatures during the night to develop the right colour and Brix level.
Even the Spanish produce did not have sale peaks. The problems were mostly due to the weather, which delayed ripening and even affected consumption.
The Tarocco variety was the one affected the most, as consumption diminished with respect to 2015. Even though quality was good, prices were below the seasonal average at €0.60 (USD 0.66) -1.40/kg, i.e. €0.30 (USD 0.33)-0.40 less tan 2015.
Clementines were rather stable, although prices did not go beyond €1.10 (USD 1.21) -1.20/kg. Tangerine volumes were always constant, though they are not as popular as clementines.
Among the citrus fruits, lemons are the only ones that remain constant throughout the year and even register sales peaks.
Current trends
“For what concerns the volumes sold through the CAAT, we have registered a downward trend in the last few years. Distribution has changed, foreign platforms were established, where retailers can buy their products, while until 10 years ago 80% of the produce was bought from general markets.”
“Foreign produce such as for example Turkish oranges does not represent a significant problem in terms of supply, especially since consumption is constant. Only grapefruit and lemons arrive from Turkey, whereas significant quantities of oranges, clementines, tomatoes, peppers and strawberries arrive from Spain, a strong competitor for Southern Italy.”
“Quality is increasingly important, as those entrepreneurs who focus on it manage to accomplish more than those who focus on volumes. On the one hand, customers are increasingly demanding, maybe even a little spoilt while, on the other hand, we have the economic crisis. Anyway clients prefer buying smaller quantities of a better variety. Guaranteeing sugar content and shelf-life while considering transport and distribution times are aspects producers must consider – they must assess the perfect time to harvest not to compromise the market.”
“I would say that, at the moment, quality is what drives sales, of course with the right value for money and considering the type of clients – the market in Milan, for example, is different from the one in Turin or Rome. Studying the market is essential to be more competitive and efficient.”
Source: Fresh Plaza