Netherlands: Speciality vine tomatoes for specialist and retail

Stijger has been active in the cultivation of specialities since 1996. Almost twenty years later, competition has increased significantly, but that doesn’t bother the grower. "No problem," he says. "The market has stabilized somewhat and demand for healthier, cleaner produce continues to increase. The economy looks slightly better. And people still have to eat.”

The products are distributed through Harvest House and supplied to speciality stores, but also to a number of Jumbo and C1000 stores. Being personally involved in the chain, according to Stijger, is of great importance. "Sales, continuity, quality and reliability," he says. "You can’t do without these terms. It's about the one-on-one relationship with the purchaser. Not just sell five kilo boxes, but aiming to provide a complete service package. "

This year, the company strives to add yet another Dutch retailer to its range of steady buyers. "By supplying to specialists you might earn an extra buck, but distribution is limited," explains Stijger. “Also, I find there’s actually much variation in the type of supermarkets, even the ones belonging to the same chain. That makes them interesting and versatile to customers.”