Traders, retailers and dealers from 12 different countries in Europe, South America and Africa met at the Rijk Zwaan demo field in Cartagena and attended a conference at the local Chamber of Commerce. The event helped customers to find melons and watermelons with the all-year-round quality that they need.
Fresh cut
Rijk Zwaan Crop Coordinators Diego Maestre and David Herzog gave presentations about concepts in melon and watermelon, and how they can contribute to meeting consumers’ expectations. Marketing Specialist Vincent van Wolferen paid special attention to the fresh cut market which is developing strongly in the UK, USA, Spain and many other countries. “This year we welcomed a high number of processing companies who participated in the discussion about varietal development. Their input was very valuable for the Rijk Zwaan breeders who were also present.”
Great potential
The seminar also included a presentation by Celedonio Buendía, General Manager of producer and trading company Procomel, who shared his vision of the future of the market.
Customer reactions to the event were very positive. Visitors particularly appreciated the networking opportunities and were pleased to see their belief in the great sales potential of melon and watermelon confirmed.
