Ireland is still technically in lockdown, being one of the last European countries to reopen. On the 6th of June outdoor dining was reopened with inside dining supposed to follow on 7th July, but this didn’t happen as COVID cases remained too high.
This is taking its toll on the fresh produce trade who supply the restaurants.
“Things picked up a bit in June when outdoor catering was allowed but it is only around 20% of what we would normally have,” said Justin Leonard from wholesaler Jackie Leonard & Sons. “The date of reopening is being debated in government but there is still no decision. It may open with a vaccination passport scheme, but we are really not sure what is going to happen."
“A lot of pubs and restaurants have done a fantastic job of turning their outside space in seating areas, but those in the city centres usually only have a couple of meters of pavement where they can place tables.”
Demand is low and supply from Europe is not seeing any problems, just additional costs since each exporter has pay for a customs declaration which adds 50 Euro onto each order. Imports from the UK are still not feasible as it takes too long and is too complicated.
Justin said it's much easier to import UK produce through a Dutch exporter.
“Transport costs and also the cost of packaging such as cardboard and plastic punnets is increasing due to a high demand and rising shipping rates.
“On the plus side we can move around within Ireland and we can eat out if there are any tables available.”
For more information:
Justin Leonard
Jackie Leonard & Sons Limited
Tel: +353 1 873 3055
Mob: +353 86 867 4760
justin@jackieleonards.ie
www.jackieleonards.ie