KX Food has recently moved to Brecht near Antwerp. The team, lead by Min Li, is positive about the new location. "We have more space and we are closer to our warehouse in Breda," says Min Li. The company has grown quickly since 2014. "The focus was on Belgium and the Netherlands at first, but we now also sell out products in various European countries."
Packaging
KX Food is specialised in the trade of ginger, garlic and packaging and controls the entire chain from cultivation to export. The company was founded in 2014 by the Chinese parent company Min Feng Food Co Ltd. KX Food supplies various packaging and this is produced by their own factory Shandong Kaibo Packaging Co. Ltd, which invested in the newest packaging and printing machines two years ago. Fleur Feijen, responsible for packaging: "We can offer many different laminated packagings, including; rolls of foil, standing bags, 3-side-sealed bags, flat bottom backs and side fold bags with anti-slip oil. This material is offered in all kinds of materials, such as PET, PE, Matt OP, aluminium and kraft paper. Shandong uses helio (deep print) for printing, which prints the details deep into the packaging. "This way of printing is more expensive than flexoprint, this is due to the use of cylinders, but the quality is better. The advantage is that for a repeat order the cost of the cylinders isn't added, so large quantities work out to be cheaper than flexoprint." KX Food is BRC certified, so the packaging can be used for the food. "We serve multiple sectors and see that the fruit and vegetable sector is demanding something that distinguishes them increasingly often. We can certainly help in this and would like to talk about the possibilities. We have a lot to offer and the possibilities are endless."
Ginger, also organic
On average KX Food imports 8 containers of ginger per week, a considerable increase compared to two years ago. "We are now a real ginger specialist," according to Min Li. Ginger was originally sold in bulk packaging. "We notice that the demand for small packagings increased, so we now offer a more extensive assortment." KX Food also expects to be able to offer organic ginger this year. "We expect the first shipment in Mat after getting our certificate." The competition on the ginger market is quite tough. "Some of those interested only look at price. But really connoisseurs choose quality and come back to us. As our import volume is increasing, we can offer sharper prices. We now also supply directly to the final customers, whereas before it was done through exporters. The sales are now more stable. We have already built up good customer relations and will further expand our customer base in Europe."
Garlic
As of this season KX Food also offers garlic. "The volume isn't that large yet and we want to grow in this step by step. We have sent test shipments to various potential customers and there were positive responses. In 2016 we will import and sell more in Europe," concludes Min.
KX Food will also be present at the Empack in Utrecht from 12 to 14 April to present its packaging.
