The fennel harvest has been underway for about two weeks in Romagna, a region in the north of Italy. Marco Babbi and Vittorio Caligari, owners of the Finò brand, are satisfied with the crop they harvested and the sales. "The quality is excellent. We can face our customers with full confidence. The prices are good and so we are starting this season better than we did in the past two unfavorable years."
Currently, the quantities available are limited and, as a result, the demand is exceeding the supply. "In June, when it came to planning for the season, the growers who dared to plant fennel have been real heroes, because at that time we were facing drought, temperatures of 40°C, a fuel price above €1.50 per liter, a lack of manpower, diseases and insects. Those who have invested in this crop have taken risks but are now reaping the benefits."
The Romagna-based company markets the fennel under the Finò brand. Exports are directed to almost all European countries.
"I don't want to talk about energy costs anymore. Everyone is affected. I would rather think about commercial strategies, how to position the product and how to reach new customers. We have just left two very tough years behind us from all points of view and now there are some challenging months ahead again with high costs. But I remain optimistic and will focus on strengthening our business presence," said Babbi.
The good timing of the market for fennel is due to a few circumstances, namely less product than usual, excellent quality and increasing consumption. "We are aiming to increase our exports, partly thanks to a strengthening of our workforce," added Babbi.
"We can also already announce here that we have some surprises in store for the market next spring," concluded the two partners.
