Despite the predicted heat, greenhouse vegetable sales are progressing well, according to Philip van Geest of Van Geest International in De Lier. "Prices aren't extremely high, but a lot is being sold. And that's been the case throughout the season, much more than last year."
"Loose tomatoes, for instance, are moving reasonably well, and we're not seeing any rock-bottom prices yet. Cherry tomatoes (9x250 grams) were doing very poorly for a few weeks with minimum prices, but the market is now picking up again, probably due to obligations. Plum tomatoes are at a reasonable price level, but sales are disappointing. We're seeing a few sales issues with BBB tomatoes. There are fewer growers and less area dedicated to them, which is helping to keep sales stable."
"Vine tomatoes aren't expensive either, but their prices have risen slightly over the past few days. However, they've now peaked, and I have the feeling those prices will drop again. Slightly lower production in (vine) tomatoes is expected this week; hopefully, that will help improve prices for growers. Many pickers will leave the greenhouse early because of the heat protocol, which will also affect production somewhat."
"Aubergines are moving, but prices aren't yet at the level they should be. However, there is strong demand for cucumbers, and prices for those are currently quite good. The pepper market had risen a bit, but has now dropped back to half the cost price. Only green peppers, which are grown on a smaller scale, remain a rare bright spot with more than reasonable daily prices."
For more information:
Philip van Geest
Van Geest International
Jogchem van der Houtweg 41
2678 HA De Lier
Tel: +31 (0) 174 514300
[email protected]
www.vgibv.nl