The first day of the Fruit Attraction trade show in Madrid featured many satisfied faces. It was not as busy as in previous years and there was an occasional empty stand, But that is quite understandable given the COVID-19 situation. Nonetheless, people were pleased to see each other again in a broader international context.
The Fruit Attraction trade show's second day was even busier than the first. There was a steady flow of visitors, leaving exhibitors very satisfied. The Spanish and Latin American halls were particularly busy. There were plenty of Spanish hams again and the atmosphere was very laid back.
Masks and temperature control aside, this event was almost as it should be. The atmosphere was friendly, and people took the time to chat with each other. What's more, many companies were pleased with the fair's timing. The Spanish mandarin, mango, and greenhouse vegetable seasons are just getting underway. That made this trade show the perfect place to make those final deals.
Left: Den Berk Délice's tomato mix. Right: sliced, ready-to-eat celery sticks from G's
There is the same number of French standholders as the previous edition. That is according to Business France, who organized that country's pavilion. With 155 stands, the Italians, too, are very well represented. Many people see the fair as an important test for Fruit Logistica. This is planned for Berlin in February 2022. There were also many Dutch visitors at Fruit Attraction.
The French Saint Charles Export stand
The tomato contact group met yesterday. It has delegates from Italy, France, and Spain. There were three items on the group's agenda. They discussed the new season's economic forecast, the EU-Morocco agreements, and the phytosanitary situation.
Organic farming is on the rise in all three countries. Spain focuses mainly on organic. The French, however, focus mostly on residue-free cultivation. Prices in the tomato sector were quite high in 2021, to the satisfaction of growers. But, the advance of ToBRFV is causing concern.
Many exhibitors are expecting increased visitor numbers today. European fruit and vegetable companies are very familiar with this fair in Madrid. There are fewer Asian companies. And some North American visitors came to Madrid because the PMA was not being held. There will be further updates from Madrid in the coming days. On Friday, we will publish a photo report on the various AGF and FreshPlaza sites.
Today is this trade fair's last day. It closes at 17:00. We will publish a photo report tomorrow.