The summer should be a top season for curly endive. The demand is there, but the production is a bit too high. Grower Dirk Declerq from Gits says the market is changeable. "March and April were very good, May was reasonable, and from June we had a bit of a dip. Since the open ground product was added the prices have been under pressure."
Too much production
Around 60% of the Belgian curly endive, also known as frisée, goes to catering. "Because we have set agreements it's doable, but the prices on the clock are difficult. It was cold for a long time in spring. This meant that the production was behind. Because it then got warm it was less spread out and the harvest percentage was exceptionally high. In this market when there is slightly more production, the prices are under pressure. It's hard to say how long it will last. As far as we're concerned it can stay warm for a while, it will only benefit the sales of our product."
Last week's weather caused some damage here and there. "We've noticed that the demand from France has increased. The sales for export are going well, but it's mainly difficult inland." He says that they grow different varieties in Roeselare and Mechelen. "Here in Roeselare we have a fine variety, and there they have heavier varieties. Sometimes they weigh over a kilo each. They mainly go to be cut, as the fresh market isn't interested in coarse sizes."
