"At the moment, the melon production is more staggered and everything points to a slightly smaller production than last year," explains José Bruñó, manager of Frutas Bruñó, adding that "both the calibres and quality have so far been really good."
According to Jose Bruñó, the prospects for the campaign are optimistic, although he notes that "there is some concern in the producing areas of Castile-La Mancha, because last year we had many problems with the New Delhi due to the proliferation of whitefly. The sector expects fewer kilos of melons in this growing area, especially late in the season."
As for watermelons, right now there is still some shortage at origin, both in terms of quantities and sizes. "With Spain's high demand alone, we are noticing the shortage. If there was good weather in the rest of Europe, we would have a serious problem in supplying all our customers," he points out.
Bruñó sells Piel de Sapo melons and black seedless watermelons, 80% of which are labelled using laser technology. Also, for its third consecutive year, it continues to expand the volumes marketed under the organic brand Bruñó Bio, mainly in Spain.
According to José Bruñó, Piel de Sapo melon exports are growing slightly every year, especially when it comes to small sizes. "This year we have a new Piel de Sapo melon variety that reaches maturity weighing about 2 kilos."
While the market is still quite brand-oriented, José Bruñó assures that brands are highly appreciated by consumers if they manage to offer something different.
"The consumption of melons is strictly linked to their taste quality. It is also important for temperatures to be high, but the taste is crucial. An ordinary melon will go unnoticed, especially in a market with increasing competition from other fruits. Such is the example of watermelons, whose consumption has increased significantly in recent years thanks to the introduction of better quality seedless varieties and the better management of producers."
Bruñó has already launched the spot “El Mediterráneo en el corazón” (The Mediterranean in your heart) to advertise its melons and watermelons, organising also a considerable number of tastings at the points of sale.
