Raspberry growers in the Netherlands are facing intense income pressure due to a high market supply. This year, raspberries from Spain and Morocco arrived later than usual because of weather conditions, causing their peak to overlap with the Dutch harvest, reports the Financieele Dagblad. Normally, these imports arrive earlier in the season. On top of low selling prices, Dutch growers are also struggling with sharply increased labor costs.
Not all raspberry growers are affected equally. The impact largely depends on how they choose to market their fruit. Some work with fixed-supply contracts, while others sell directly on the open market. It's the latter group that is currently feeling the greatest financial strain.
Marketing organizations such as Fruitmasters are also dealing with the oversupply. Growers who are members of the cooperative benefit from a minimum price guarantee for their fruit, regardless of market conditions. The cooperative also secures long-term agreements with buyers, ensuring a stable outlet for a set quantity of product.
Source: Financieele Dagblad (€).
