Belgian pear exporter Bel'Export last week made a special visit to the UK in order to meet with long-term customers of its Corina pear, an early version of the popular Conference variety.
The company's Tony Derwael – accompanied by Edwin Saels, one of two brothers who discovered the Corina – used the occasion of the start of the new season to present awards to its best UK clients.
Bel'export awarded importers International Produce Limited and Worldwide Fruit for taking the largest volumes of Corina; IVG White for showing the most promise for the future; and retailer Sainsbury's for remaining the most loyal customer.
On accepting the award Dr Theresa Huxley,Sainsbury'sapples and pears technologist,commented: 'This accoladeis great news for Sainsbury's and its customers.Conference pears are the most popular pears we sell so it's crucial wehave a reliable supply.'
Since Corina pears mature around one to two weeks earlier than other European Conference pears, they fill a niche in Sainsbury's supply calendar, Huxley said, bridging the gap between the old and new season.
'The dedication of the grower members of the Corina Club and the team at Bel'Exportmeans our Sainsburys customers never go without their favourite variety of pear,' she added.
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