Insights into Greenhouse Vegetable Sales and Price Trends
Peter Fes, product manager for greenhouse vegetables at StC, reports a positive trend in the greenhouse vegetable market, driven primarily by strong demand from retail and improving conditions for day trade due to favorable weather.
Cucumber prices have maintained stability, closely correlating with their sizing categories. Currently, prices hover around 40 cents for 40’ers, 35 cents for 35’ers, and approximately 30 cents for 30-grade cucumbers. This consistency marks a significant improvement from a few weeks ago when prices dipped as low as 6 cents per cucumber at auctions.
Fes anticipates continued stability in cucumber prices despite the ramp-up in production by traditional growers and upcoming high-wire cultivations. However, he remains optimistic that favorable weather conditions will help sustain current price levels without significant fluctuations.
In contrast, eggplant prices have experienced a notable increase recently, catching up after a period of lag. Meanwhile, the pepper market has shown stability over the past two weeks, with red peppers priced between €9.50-10.00 per box. Despite expectations of increased production next week, strong demand from the American market suggests continued stability without significant price drops.
Fes notes a competitive presence of cheaper green peppers from Poland entering the market, with colored peppers from Poland expected to follow suit. This influx may exert some pressure on Dutch pepper prices, but Fes does not foresee an immediate rise in prices due to these developments.
For stakeholders in greenhouse vegetable production, retail, agricultural sales, and international trade, these insights offer a comprehensive view of current market dynamics and pricing trends.
