Given the comparatively warm 
weather, the first calendar week of 2023 is shaping up to be a rather subdued week regarding the demand for salads, says Claus Lermer. "Despite minor slowdowns, however, sales were very good at Christmas. Currently, a calmer mood is emerging again. It is simply too warm in the region," says the managing director of Früchte Lermer Ltd. In 2022, the company from Siegsdorf was able to enjoy increased sales. These even exceeded pre-Corona sales and have already been adjusted for inflation.
Right: Claus Lermer
Christmas sales 
in 2022 were better than in the previous year, even though they were not necessarily bad in 2021. "By and large, at that time, we already focused more on products that are easier or faster to process. The trend toward convenience products was repeatedly confirmed in 2022. We are seeing high demand for pre-cut salads in particular," Lermer says. Compared to the same month last year, the price of convenience products has risen by around 10 to 12 percent, he adds.
In view of the high costs as well as further price increases, Lermer expressed surprise at the current price situation for salads: "In the last two weeks, we have received salads of good quality. Despite the increased freight costs, surprisingly, we see medium price levels. However, business is currently functioning with the handbrake on," he says.
The company sources most of its produce from France and Italy, although some lettuce hearts and romaine lettuce are imported from Spain. Regional products such as tomatoes are priced significantly higher compared to imported goods, he said. "Our regional tomato producer will now produce in the winter months due to new lighting technology. Accordingly, however, a higher price level must be achieved. As far as high-end tomato varieties from the Netherlands and Belgium are concerned, these high prices have been emerging for some time. However, sales are constant, and there is a demand for ripe and aromatic produce."
Photo: Früchte Lermer GmbH & Co. KG
For more information:
Claus Lermer
Früchte Lermer GmbH & Co. KG
Traunsteiner Str. 11
83313 Siegsdorf
Tel.: +49 86 62 – 71 91
Fax: +49 86 62 – 1 28 84
E-Mail: info@lermer-siegsdorf.de
Web: https://www.lermer-siegsdorf.de