Camposol asparagus

Peruvian fresh produce supplier Camposol Holding has reported on sales and earnings growth for the opening quarter of 2013, while outlining its expectations for a positive long-term future.

For the three-month period the group reported sales of US$40.6m (€31m), representing growth of 8.1 per cent on the same period of 2012, largely the result of greater volumes of mango sold and higher prices for its fresh white asparagus.

Earnings before interest, taxation, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) before fair value adjustments came in at US$4m, marking an 11.2 per cent increase on the previous year, with EBITDA margin increasing to 9.9 per cent.

'The long term growth prospects for exotic fruit and vegetable markets are excellent,' the group said. 'Avocado and mango are growing, with headroom for increased per capita consumption in key markets. In the case of asparagus, although consumption is stable, supply is falling due mainly to reduced exports from China.'

Camposol revealed that it expected 'good demand' for all of its fresh produce in general, and avocados specifically, in both the US and European markets, noting that it was focused on adding value to its clients through commercial, marketing and service initiatives which should result on higher margins.

'Camposol will continue positioning itself in the US market, the largest and fastest growing market for avocado in the world, now open for Peruvian produce and in other markets with high growth potential,' the company added.