Wholesaler Gebroeders Michiels Anticipates Stable Tomato Market Post-Holidays
The greenhouse vegetable market, including tomatoes, is experiencing a notably calm period according to Barry Michiels of Gebroeders Michiels. Based in Sint-Katelijne-Waver, this wholesaler reports that while the market remains active, it lacks the peak sales volumes typically observed during the prime season.
Current Market Conditions
Barry Michiels describes the current state of the market as “summer busy” rather than bustling. “All the items, from tomatoes to cucumbers, peppers, and aubergines, are available. However, sales are smaller and more dispersed,” Michiels explains. The fragmentation of the market, with an increase in direct home sales and fewer exporters, has led to a more distributed and less predictable market environment.
The wholesale market has seen a shift, with more buyers now directly accessing products, contributing to market fragmentation. Michiels highlights that the role of wholesalers has become more focused on logistics and maintaining product freshness rather than negotiating prices, which are increasingly transparent.
Impact of Weather on Tomato Supply
The 2024 season has been particularly challenging due to weather conditions. Traditionally, April, May, and June are the peak months for tomato sales, but this year’s persistent poor weather has disrupted both supply and demand. “We haven’t had a single full week of good weather for the past three months,” Michiels laments. This weather inconsistency has led to volatile tomato volumes, with harvests delayed by about six weeks.
The weather’s impact is evident in the supply chain: improved conditions in August may increase supply, but the market is expected to remain subdued until then. “The sun has let us down for the past three months,” Michiels notes, reflecting on how seasonal weather patterns have affected production and sales.
Market Trends and Future Outlook
The volatility in tomato sales contrasts with more stable performance in other vegetables like aubergines, peppers, and cucumbers. Michiels points out that last year’s high demand for San Marzano tomatoes has shifted this year, with significant supplies now available in the Netherlands and Germany. “Last year, we sold 10 pallets of San Marzano tomatoes daily. This year, with ample supply, losing a few pallets per day is significant,” he notes.
The market is expected to remain calm until mid-August. Michiels anticipates that demand will pick up following the summer holidays, coinciding with the start of the school season and potentially improving market conditions. However, he advises that no significant changes are expected before then. “Until 15 August, I expect a calm market. Some weeks may vary, but overall, the market will not see explosive changes,” Michiels adds.
Conclusion
As the market continues to stabilize, wholesalers and growers should prepare for a steady period with modest fluctuations. The anticipated rise in demand post-holidays could offer a boost, provided weather conditions improve. For now, the focus remains on maintaining product quality and navigating the challenges of a fragmented market.
