Germany: Improved sales expected in coming weeks

At the moment the sales of grapes on the German market is slow. “Currently the interest of customers…

At the moment the sales of grapes on the German market is slow. “Currently the interest of customers is rather subdued,” explains a German importer. “The sales are slow at the moment. It doesn’t matter where the grapes come from.” And, continues the importer, the availability of competing summer fruit, such as berries and stonefruit is still too large.

“The customers wishes are key for the popularity of certain varieties,” states the importer. “Good looks and high brix are also important.” Least popular are grape varieties with seeds, explains the importer. “We have seen a real change in recent years. At the moment seedless grapes are the most desired by the customers.”

Good quality grapes from Greece and Italy
The progress of the grape season means improvement of the quality of the grapes from the Mediterranean, states the trader. The expert explains: “There are beautiful Greek and Italian grapes at the moment. A few weeks ago the grapes form Greece were too green and the brix too low. This is changing and good quality Italian grapes are now available. Italy already supplies the market with the varieties Italia, Palieri and Red Globe."

Better looks and sweeter taste
In the next few weeks the businessman expects a turnaround in the demand. “We expect a change for the better on the market in the coming weeks. The grapes will have a better color and will be sweeter,” says the importer. “And the availability of stonefruit will dwindle, soft fruit will be too expensive. Then we have to compete with apples and pears.”