Fruit World in Breda, the Netherlands, last week began selling Chilean kiwi berries. According to Jan van Tilborg, there is 40% less produce available than last year due to frost last Autumn. "As a result prices are higher, demand is very good and from this week, volume will also increase."
Fruit World has been selling Chilean kiwi berries for at least 10 years, but in the last few years the volume has significantly increased. "The market for the product is getting bigger. Kiwi berries are increasing in reputation and we are seeing more demand from European retailers, restaurants and caterers, not only nationally, but from England, Germany and Austria," explained Jan.
The importer explains that quality is better this year than last. "We have seen few problems with skin damage, and the kiwi berries have a lovely smooth skin. We are optimistic for the rest of the season and will be offering Chilean kiwi berries for another seven weeks."