Click on the following links to read news stories from Fruit Logistica 2010 about:
Device designed to remove pomegranate seeds wins Innovation Award
Sensational Flavours from Rijk Zwaan
Veneto’s agricultural producers exhibit for the first time together
Calabria presents red onions from Tropea and potatoes from Sila
Grimaldi Group: shipping company focuses on the fresh produce market
Tunisia potato exports increase
Landgard Stiftung is supporting new talent
Del Monte presents new ripening technology
Extremadura's cherry growers plan to recapture German market
Flanders makes its mark as an original brand
Hall Forum: 'New marketing norms in Europe – How is the trade coping?'
Agribusiness – Partnerships in the produce food chain
Pluots: New product from Andalusia
Brazil Fresh Produce: Inaugural meeting at FRUIT LOGISTICA
Asparagus from Lazio headed for the German market
Israel: Carmel Agrexco reduces CO2 emissions
Fyffes planning to strengthen market share
Weighing and packing line by S&B
Sugar-sweet cherimoyas from Granada
Harsh winter in Central Europe boosts sales of potatoes from Cyprus
Major Chinese growers establish business contacts
DFHV training platform for the fresh produce trade
'Silver Grape' for Messe Berlin
'Prodotti di Puglia' now a protected geographical indication
Crunchy snow peas and aromatic cardamom from Guatemala
ULMA presents automatic machine for single packs
AFFELDT presents variable packing system
Zespri heads for the Middle East
Sweet peaches and nectarines from Aragon
IFCO: 3,500 returnable containers for Berlin food bank
Burkina Faso seeks new buyers for green beans
Chiquita to develop fresh produce departments
Certified organic Indian herbs and vegetables on their way to Europe
Egypt's presence growing steadily
Pakistan's export development unparalleled
Perfect papayas from Costa Rica
Debut for Malaysian dried ambarella
Smart Protection from BASF
Herbs from Palestinian growers for the first time at FRUIT LOGISTICA
Short-term contracts dominate in Murcia
Hungary: from apricots to watermelons
Poland with a joint stand from Masovia
Practical MiniBox from SurplusSystems
Innovations for the fresh produce business – Packaging trends 2010
GPC – Optimising procurement processes through classification and standardisation
Device designed to remove pomegranate seeds wins Innovation Award
The international industry experts have chosen the winner of the FRUIT LOGISTICA Innovation Award (FLIA) 2010. It is a device designed to remove pomegranate seeds made by the company Mehadrin Tnuport Export of Israel. The coveted Innovation Award was presented for the Arils Removal Tool (ART). This device facilitates the quick, clean and easy removal of seeds from pomegranates, allowing consumers to conveniently enjoy this vitamin-rich fruit. Noa Ohad, Shoham Product Development, accepted the award. The company expects the development of the Arils Removal Tool to increase the sale of pomegranates. Second place went to the Dutch HZPC Holland BV for the Pommonde® Potato Taste Concept, which offers consumers innovative and practical guidance in purchasing potatoes. Third place was awarded to Unitec S.p.A. from Italy for its QS_300portable quality control device. This unit enables the user to quickly inspect and determine the inner quality of all major varieties of stone and pomaceous fruits.
Sensational Flavours from Rijk Zwaan
“We are presenting our new product line ‘Sensational Flavours’ for the first time in Germany at FRUIT LOGISTICA”, says Steven van Paassen, Communication Manager at Rijk Zwaan. This new line represents special products along with a whole concept. It comprises 13 vegetable varieties, including such as different green and red tomatoes, carrots, lettuce, aubergines and melons. The Manager emphasises that products in this new line distinguish themselves primarily through their particular flavour. They cater to the premium segment and therefore undergo regular testing and comparison against reference products. These tests include both tasting and laboratory testing to ascertain such features as sweetness, acidity and succulence. Van Paassen comments that the FRUIT LOGISTICA went very well. Visitors to the stand included customers from 21 countries in Europe as well as North and South America and Australia. (Hall 1.2, Stand D-11, contact: Steven van Paassen, tel. +31-610-923052, e-mail: s.van.paassen@rykzwaan.nl)
Veneto’s agricultural producers exhibit for the first time together
Seven production cooperatives from the Italian region of Veneto are presenting their products at FRUIT LOGISTICA for the first time under the auspices of the Veneto Ortofrutta growers’ association. In the past year they produced 129,000 tonnes of fruit and vegetables with a combined value of EUR 94.5 million. 20% was exported, says association manager Cesare Bellò. He explained that there is a significant demand for the association's five different varieties of radicchio. Cultivation of radicchio is regionally restricted, which makes it impossible to satisfy the 50% increase in demand. The association is taking advantage of the opportunities at FRUIT LOGISTICA to tap into new markets. Promising contacts were also established with potential customers from Great Britain and Denmark. (Hall 2.2, Stand C-11, contact: Cesare Bellò, tel. +39-0422-345164, e-mail: cesarebello@ortoveneto.it)
Calabria presents red onions from Tropea and potatoes from Sila
The famous red onions from Tropea, the clementines and now potatoes from Sila – all with Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) – are at the centre of the fruit and vegetable range being presented at FRUIT LOGISTICA by twelve production cooperatives and four independent companies from the Italian province of Calabria. This raised the number of exhibitors this year to 16. Germany, Poland and Russia are the main buying countries; Switzerland and Austria chiefly import Calabria's organically grown products. (Hall 4.1, Stand C-01, contact: Dr. Giacomo Giovinazzo, tel. +39-0961-853074, e-mail: g.giovinazzo@regcal.it)
Grimaldi Group: shipping company focuses on the fresh produce market
The Grimaldi Group, owners of the shipping company of the same name as well as Minoan Lines and Finnlines, is banking heavily on the transport of fruit and vegetables. Which is why the company is exhibiting at the FRUIT LOGISTICA for the first time. Fruit accounts for 40% of the cargo on the route between Barcelona and Sardinia, and each trip from Genoa to Libya carries between 60 and 70 shipping containers full of apples, reports Commercial Manager Dr. Guido Grimaldi. Many commercial companies are not aware of the advantages of transporting goods by ship, Grimaldi says. You can reach Barcelona from Rome twice as fast as with a lorry at only half the cost. All decks are equipped with outlets for supplying electricity to refrigerated containers so that diesel units can be switched off, reducing emissions. Grimaldi sees potential markets opening in Morocco and Tunisia. (Hall 4.2, Stand A-12, contact: Paul Kyprianou, tel. +39-081-496246, e-mail: kyprianou.paul@grimaldi.napoli.it)
Tunisia potato exports increase
With eight exhibitors this year, the Tunisian joint stand is presenting a large selection of fruit and vegetables at FRUIT LOGISTICA. 'More than just oranges and dates, our growers are offering all kinds of fresh vegetables in large quantities', says Habib Zaghdane, Chief Agricultural Engineer of the Agricultural Investment Promotion Agency. 'We are also showing the world the quantities we can deliver.' Since Tunisia gained privileged access to the European market for its potatoes, the crops have been increasing by 9.5% each year since 2006. Tunisia's mainly exports oranges. In 2009, 300,000 tonnes were produced, of which 27,000 tonnes were exported. Of the 128,000 tonnes of dates produced, 30,000 tonnes were sold outside the country. (Hall 1.1, Stand C-09, contact: Habib Zaghdane, tel: +2-16-71771300, e-mail: zaghden.habib@apia.com.tn)
Landgard Stiftung is supporting new talent
'We are introducing our Grow Award this year at FRUIT LOGISTICA', says Torsten Brandt, Landgard Corporate Communications Manager. 'This award is aimed at supporting young people in the fresh produce industry'. Interested newcomers can register for the Landgard Foundation Grow Award this spring. The five winners will receive financial support up to EUR 5,000 and will be invited to the official award ceremony on 10 June 2010. Henning Schmidt, CEO of the Landgard Foundation, explains the organisation's goal: 'We hope the award winners will set an example for other young people and encourage them to develop their own ideas and promote the horticulture trade'. (Hall 20, Stand C-02. Contact: Torsten Brandt, tel. +49-2839-591120, e-mail: torsten.brandt@landgard.de)
Del Monte presents new ripening technology
'One of our highlights at FRUIT LOGISTICA is the presentation of our new CRT packaging for bananas', explains Reinhard Hagemann, General Manager of Del Monte (Germany) GmbH. Controlled Ripening Technology increases the shelf life of bananas in sealed boxes by up to three days without any abnormal colour changes. 'All of the experts I talked to at the trade fair agreed that this is a major innovation for the banana industry', Hagemann said. 'Following a four-week series of ripening tests in our facility in Berlin, we started supplying CRT products to various test markets this week in the metropolitan Berlin area'. Hagemann went on to mention other trade fair highlights including the Del Monte fresh cut pineapple, winner of the Superior Taste Award 2009 presented by the International Taste and Quality Institute in Brussels. (Hall 7.2c, Stand B-02. Contact: Reinhard Hagemann, tel. +49-40-236772230, e-mail: rhagemann@freshdelmonte.com)
Extremadura's cherry growers plan to recapture German market
Nineteen companies, marketing associations and research groups are at FRUIT LOGISTICA this year to represent the Extremadura region, which is known for its production of stone and pomaceous fruit. Among those attending is the Association of Cooperatives from the Jerte Valley, which represents some 4,000 growers that produce 14 million kilos of cherries each year, making them Europe's number one source of cherries. Products range from the Burlat cherries harvested in April to the Picota cherry that ripens late in the year. This variety is grown exclusively in the sunny Jerte Valley and develops an intense aroma thanks to the longer ripening period. 'Picota cherries have a high sugar content and are particularly crunchy. When the fruit is harvested, the stem remains on the tree without any damage to the cherry', says Export Manager Tino González explaining what makes these cherries so unique. More than two-thirds of the harvest is consumed in Spain – despite the extensive marketing campaigns sponsored by European trading partners. According to González, 'We are here at FRUIT LOGISTICA for two reasons. Participation at this trade fair is essential to the success of our business, because this is where the whole industry meets. We also want to recapture the German market – above all for our Picota cherries and for our cherries packed in trays'. (Hall 8.2, Stand A-02. Contact: Marisol Hurtado, tel. +49-179-7566641).
Flanders makes its mark as an original brand
As a source of products from this area of Belgium, Flanders is becoming increasingly recognised in the international marketplace. Twenty fruit and vegetable growers from the region are sharing a joint stand at FRUIT LOGISTICA this year. Key agricultural exports from Flanders include potatoes (667,000 tonnes per year). Germany is the most important export market for fruit from the region. Other key export countries are France, the Netherlands, Russia and Great Britain. (Hall 6.2, Stand A-03/4, B-06. Contact: Paul Coenen, tel. +49-221-254857, vlam.belg.agrar@t-online.de)
Hall Forum: 'New marketing norms in Europe – How is the trade coping?'
Since 1 July 2009, 27 marketing standards for fruit and vegetables in the EU have been abolished. In the meantime, several new standards have been adopted. The impact that this has had on the trade was the focus of the Hall Forum entitled 'New marketing norms in Europe – How is the trade coping?'. Frederic Rosseneu of Freshfel Europe in Brussels explained the circumstances behind the changes in the standards and the current situation in various countries at the European level. Ulrike Bickelmann of Germany’s Federal Agency for Agriculture and Food (BLE) took a close look at the standards and the associated inspections. Wolfgang Ahlers of Univeg Germany expressed his delight that the authorities have been highly cooperative up to now, and that food retailers have generally accepted the 'soft' transition. However, true streamlining of the bureaucracy or reductions in costs, as announced prior to the transition, have yet to be realised.
Agribusiness – Partnerships in the produce food chain
The Hall Forum 'Agribusiness – Partnerships in the produce food chain' focused on today's close ties between production, the agricultural industry and the retail trade. The objective is to ensure top quality at all levels – from seeds to the POS. Innovative products are aimed at strengthening the competitive position of growers and retailers. It is important to ensure consumers are guaranteed maximum product safety. Agricultural technology plays a key role in achieving today's goals. In his introduction, Dr. Andreas Brügger, Managing Director, DFHV (German Fruit Trade Association), presented the most important issues and aspects, from seeds to the POS. Afterwards, specific areas were explained by experts from the various sectors. The development of new seeds and varieties were discussed by Michael Kester of Syngenta based in the Netherlands. Using Belgium as an example, the practices of growers were examined by Paul Coenen, Managing Director of the Flanders' Agricultural Marketing Board (VLAM), Dave Marris from the pesticides unit at BASF Agricultural Division in the United Kingdom, and Dr. Horst Lang, Director of Quality Assurance for the German retailer Globu. Close cooperation between the various links in the chain is crucial to offering consumers high-quality, safe products. The entire sector appears to be on the right track and this has not been negatively affected by the current crisis or weak prices. As Dr. Horst Lang pointed out, in the long run, there’s no alternative to quality.
Pluots: New product from Andalusia
They are very sweet, juicy and crisp – and they come in yellow or dark red. The Royal company based in Spain is presenting their Pluots to trade visitors for the first time at FRUIT LOGISTICA. After a three year test phase, the hybrid fruit, which is a cross between plums and apricots, are now ready for the world market. 'We'll produce 1 million kilos this year', said Royal Sales Representative Alexander Koch. The key markets for the fruit are the United Kingdom and Germany, where the European innovation is already listed by Rewe. The family-owned company based in the Andalusian city of Seville is also presenting a new variety of cultured blueberries at the trade fair. 'The blueberries are harvested in Morocco starting in February and can be shipped to Europe within four days. We produced 500,000 tonnes last year and expect to increase this amount to 2 million kilos by 2011', Koch said.
The region of Andalusia exported EUR 3 billion worth of fruit and vegetables in 2008 – primarily to Germany, France and the United Kingdom. There are 42 companies and growers' associations exhibiting their products at FRUIT LOGISTICA under the auspices of the Extenda export promotion organisation. (Hall 18, Stand A-01. Contact: Pablo Lería, tel. +34-902-508-416, e-mail: plc@extenda.es).
Brazil Fresh Produce: Inaugural meeting at FRUIT LOGISTICA
Under the name Brazil Fresh Produce, a group of Brazilian fruit producers and exporters are exhibiting for the first time at FRUIT LOGISTICA with a new joint exhibition stand. The official inaugural meeting, with its initial 12 members, took place at the trade fair in Berlin. According to the president of the new association, Luiz Roberto M. Barcelos, they represent about 70% of Brazil's fresh fruit exports. This currently represents a relatively small proportion of the country's total agricultural exports and they hope to significantly increase this amount in future. Working together the association can better react to day-to-day problems, exploit synergy effects and develop new markets, Barcelos said. In cooperation with the responsible ministries, they also want to see the same high standards for exports applied to the domestic market. The organisation's presence at FRUIT LOGISTICA has paid off. 'The buyers are more optimistic than they were last year and are again talking about increasing the supply quantities', Barcelos explained. (Hall 25, Stand A-02. Contact: Luiz Roberto M. Barcelos, tel. +55-84-33245038, e-mail: luizbarcelos@agrfamosa.com.br).
Asparagus from Lazio headed for the German market
Asparagus from the Italy's capital region of Lazio will soon compete with imports from Peru on the German market prior to the start of the new season. Meetings have already been held at FRUIT LOGISTICA with two interested buyers from a retail chain, reports Giancarlo Benella, Director of the C.O.P.A. agricultural cooperative, whose 160 members produce roughly 1,000 tonnes of asparagus annually on 250 hectares. Responding to growing demand, the cooperative is for the first time planning to export its products. The Lazio joint exhibition stand includes 10 commercial groups representing some 5,000 agricultural producers. (Hall 4.2, Stand C-08. Contact: Giancarlo Benella, tel. +39-0761-438207, e-mail: info@copacanino.it).
Israel: Carmel Agrexco reduces CO2 emissions
Carmel Agrexco, a major Israeli producer, has significantly improved its carbon footprint by installing more efficient cooling systems in its cargo ships. Forgoing airfreight, 90% of the company's products are now transported by ship. According to company officials at FRUIT LOGISTICA, this reduces CO2 emissions by 30%. Over the past five years, fuel consumption has been lowered by 60%. The modern freighters are equipped with refrigeration holds, which means that refrigerated containers are no longer necessary. This lowers the energy required for transport by 25%. (Hall 3.2, Stand D-12. Contact: Taly Sive-Lahav, tel. +9 72 (0) 3 563 09 40, e-mail: info@agrexco.com).
Fyffes planning to strengthen market share
'When Fyffes entered the market in 1929 with its blue label, this marked the first time in the history of the fruit trade that fresh fruit was sold under a brand name', explained Ralph Fischer, Marketing Manager for the international fruit import company Weichert & Co KG. 'Supported with an extensive, groundbreaking advertising campaign, Fyffes successfully managed to differentiate its fruit from that of its competitors'. After introducing an organic banana at FRUIT LOGISTICA last year, the company is aiming at consolidating and expanding its market position at this year's trade fair. Fischer mentions pineapple as another major group being exhibited at the FRUIT LOGISTICA. Their objective is to expand the current market share. (Hall 5.2, Stand A-04. Contact: Michaela Schneider, tel. +49-172-24018228, e-mail: mschneider@fyffes.com).
Weighing and packing line by S&B
S&B Verpackungsmaschinen GmbH is at FRUIT LOGISTICA this year to present a cross-section of its current range of products to international trade visitors. The company, in cooperation with the Sorma Group, is one of the leading manufacturers of packing machines and systems for fruit, vegetables, potatoes and frozen food products. Trade fair highlights include the CP800 weighing and packing line for carrots and the AT 5 E automatic net clipping machine. The CP800, for example, consists of a computer controlled high-performance weighing machine for filling polyethylene bags or trays. The high performance microprocessor makes it possible to use 100 different configurable operating programs. According to the company, this makes operating the line easier and user-friendly. (Hall 3.1, Stand D-18. Contact: Thomas Carta, tel. +49-6047-96370, e-mail: info@sbsorma.de)
Sugar-sweet cherimoyas from Granada
'Very few people know that 90% of global cherimoyas are grown on the coast of Granada and Malaga', says Alfonso Zamora of the Granada producer and trade association Ecohal Granada. About 30 to 40 million kilos of the exotic, heart-shaped fruit are harvested annually in the provinces of southern Spain. The advantage of the cherimoya, which due to its cream-coloured fruit flesh and the creamy taste is also known as the custard apple, is its sugar sweet and highly aromatic flavour. The disadvantage: it ripens very quickly and when it has reached the optimum stage for consumption the green skin has already turned brown. Most consumers find this irritating. This is why only 20% of the harvest is exported, mainly to France, Germany and the United Kingdom. Along with the 'white delicacy', as the cherimoya was called by the Spanish conquistadors of South America, the eight Ecohal exhibitors are at FRUIT LOGISTICA to promote their sun-ripened mangos, melons and medlar fruit as well as their extensive range of vegetables. (Hall 18, Stand A-07. Contact: Alfonso Zamora, tel. +34-659-480878, e-mail: alfonso@ecohalgranada.com).
Harsh winter in Central Europe boosts sales of potatoes from Cyprus
The harsh winter in Central Europe was a good thing for Cypriot growers, who experienced mild temperatures and are counting on an outstanding harvest. Their spring potatoes are now in high demand in this area. 'Our 14 exporters are very satisfied with the outcome of the trade fair so far', says Loucas E. Symeonides, Director of the Republic of Cyprus Embassy trade office. 'This is where they meet existing customers and establish new business contacts'. While Germany, the UK, Greece, Belgium and the Netherlands are key importers of potatoes, citrus fruits and herbs from Cyprus, the growers are planning to develop new markets in Austria, Poland and other countries. Lemons from Cyprus are now also being exported to Singapore. (Hall 2.1, Stand D-03/E-03. Contact: Loucas E. Symeonides, tel. +49-30-2844596, e-mail: info@zypern.com)
Major Chinese growers establish business contacts
Major Chinese growers are establishing business contacts at FRUIT LOGISTICA. The largest trading partner for Carrefour, Katopé and Tesco produces 15,000 tonnes of pomelos for export each year along with an equal amount for the domestic market, says sales manager Yinghao 'Howard' Zhuang of the Zhangzhou Zhuangyi Agriculture Development Co. Ltd based in the province of Fujian. 'We have already started negotiations with Edeka', he adds. Botou Dongfang Fruit Co. based in the province of Hebei cultivates nine different pear varieties. 'We export 10,000 tonnes annually', says International Trade Department Manager Xuesong Han. As an export destination, Europe ranks in fourth place followed by the United States, Australia and Canada. (Hall 6.2, Stand D-06c. Contact: Yinghao Zhuang, tel. +86-134-59687460, e-mail: topfruit.howard@gmail.com; Hall 5.2, Stand C-09. Contact: Xuesong Han, tel. +86-135-13171988, e-mail: btdfgpgs@yahoo.com.cn)
DFHV training platform for the fresh produce trade
For more than 20 years the DFHV (German Fruit Trade Association) has been organising advanced training for people who deal with fruit and vegetables in their daily work. The number of training courses has been steadily increasing. All of the activities have now been united in the Fresh Seminar, the new DFHV training platform (www.frischeseminar.de). 'Fresh Seminar' is not just a new name for the association's previous training programme. It also represents a new approach with a modular structure. This enables prospective participants to arrange their own personal seminars, explained a DFHV representative at FRUIT LOGISTICA. These tailor-made programmes are directed at the food retail sector and regional clients as well as at wholesale buyers including canteens, hospitals and the German military. 'Standard courses' are also available for trainees, young professionals, managers and other specialists. (Hall 20, Stand A-13. Contact: Dr. Andreas Brügger, tel. +49-172-2117255, e-mail: bruegger@dfhv.de)
'Silver Grape' for Messe Berlin
On behalf of Messe Berlin, the FRUIT LOGISTICA organisers, COO Dr. Christian Göke accepted the 'Grappolo d’Argento' presented by Dr. Roberti Romagno, Mayor of Rutigliano in Apulia. For the past 12 years, the 700-gram 'Silver Grape' has been awarded for special contributions to the region's table grape industry and was awarded abroad for the first time. FRUIT LOGISTICA has raised the value and the brand awareness of grapes and contributed to their stronger presence on the world market. Günter Schweinsberg, Chairman of the FRUIT LOGISTICA Trade Fair Advisory Board and Managing Director of Fruchthandel Magazin, was also presented with a specially designed, cube-shaped artwork made of silver, gold, terracotta and wood by the head of the Department of Agriculture, Dr. Pasquale Redavid.
'Prodotti di Puglia' now a protected geographical indication
Dario Stefàno, Minister of Agriculture of Italy's Apulia region, described the EU recognition of the appellation 'Prodotti di Puglia' as an 'important milestone'. This provides the framework for protecting the domestic agricultural industry's quality products from illegal copying, said the politician at FRUIT LOGISTICA. After launching a promotional campaign in Italy, they are about to sign an agreement with a key representative of the German retail trade for a similar campaign. He said Germany is not only a key importer of Apulian agricultural products, it also serves as a springboard to countries in Eastern and Central Europe, Stefàno said. 'The Apulian companies at FRUIT LOGISTICA are the 'pride of our region“, he added. (Hall 4.-2, Stand A-10. Contact: Gertrud Schmitz, tel. +49-211-3879961, food@dusseldorf.ice.it)
Crunchy snow peas and aromatic cardamom from Guatemala
'We are the world's largest exporter of snow peas', says Regina España, trade representative for the Guatemalan export organisation Agexport. Exhibiting at FRUIT LOGISTICA for the third time, the Latin American country is introducing its wide range of fresh produce to customers ranging from snow peas, broccoli and carrots, to blackberries, melons, pineapple, mangos, papayas and pitahayas. For the first time, the Excard company is showcasing its assortment of spices: '23,000 tonnes of cardamom are cultivated in Guatemala annually. This makes us the world's largest exporter', says Managing Director Rodolfo Rivera. The spice crops are grown by 150,000 small farmers without chemical additives and shipped mainly to the Arab world as well as to Europe, the USA and Canada. 'I've closed so many deals at the trade fair that I actually could have gone back home half way through the event', says Rivera with a smile. (Hall 25, Stand C-07. Contact: Regina España, tel. +502-2422-3561, e-mail: regina.espana@agexport.org.gt)
ULMA presents automatic machine for single packs
'Our visitors are clearly interested in our products', says Jesus M. del Rio, General Manager of ULMA Packaging GmbH. Most of them are from Germany, France, Holland, England and other Western European countries. 'We attracted more attention this year from Eastern European countries including Hungary, Poland, Slovenia and Russia', says the managing director. The automatic sweet pepper single pack machine on display is attracting a lot of interest from visitors at FRUIT LOGISTICA 2010. It can handle up to 80 packs per minute. The robot arm is equipped with camera detection. The stainless steel design of the automatic packing machine is also suitable for high-humidity environments and can be combined with a weighing unit. Photocell control is used for printing various labels. (Hall 3.1, Stand A-05. Contact: Jesus M. del Rio, tel. +49-7303-90199663, e-mail: jmdelrio@ulmapackaging.de)
AFFELDT presents variable packing system
AFFELDT Verpackungsmaschinen GmbH is introducing a combination packing system at FRUIT LOGISTICA. The fruit is moved to the weighing machine by a conveyor system and distributed within the machine on 14 vibration channels. The entire system is designed so that sensitive fruits roll instead of dropping. This means that the fruit is not damaged in the weighing and packing process. After passing the vibration channels, the fruit is conveyed to the 14 weighing containers. The electronic weighing system precisely determines the entered target weight and creates a packing unit, which is then forwarded to the selected packing machine. The variable packing system on display is suitable for a variety of applications for packaging soft fruits such as apples, pears, tomatoes, nectarines and peaches. It can be used to make many of the types and forms of packaging required by the market. (Hall 3.1, Stand C-19. Contact: Frank Regener, tel. +49-4121-296326, e-mail: f.regener@affeldt.com)
Zespri heads for the Middle East
More sales, more trading volume, more profit for kiwi growers: 'We are making good progress despite the price pressure the industry is experiencing', says Marketing Services Manager Europe, Jean-Louis Warnimont from the marketing firm Zespri International Ltd. at FRUIT LOGISTICA. Zespri is thinking big: 'Over the past few years we have increased our marketing in Italy so that we can include it on our list of major buyers along with Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany and Spain'. This year the company is planning to take on the UK, France and the Middle East. A long-term goal for Zespri is to capture the Eastern European market. (Hall 6.2, Stand C-10. Contact: Jean-Louis Warnimont, tel. +32-3-2010812, e-mail: jean-louis.warnimont@zespri-europe.com)
Sweet peaches and nectarines from Aragon
'The German market is crucial for organic products', says José Antonio Coll of the producer association Excofrut from the Spanish province of Huesca. Some 33 companies with an annual production of 12 million kilos of fruit have joined together in an association to more aggressively market their stone and pomaceous fruit. The province of Huesca in the region of Aragon is mainly known for sweet peaches and nectarines with a high sugar content thanks to the favourable microclimate. Aragon is the second place leader for Spanish stone and pomaceous fruit cultivation. Apple, pear, peach, apricot, cherry and plum trees grow on 50,000 hectares. 'We come to FRUIT LOGISTICA every year to develop new sales markets and consolidate existing ones', says Coll. The Zufrisa company is mainly looking for suppliers to secure the raw materials base for its fruit purees. Suppliers of oranges, tangerines, pomelos, peaches, apricots, apples and pears are welcome. (Hall 8.2, Stand B-01. Contact: Miguel Mainar, tel. +34-976-475720, e-mail: mmainar@sirasa.net)
IFCO: 3,500 returnable containers for Berlin food bank
At FRUIT LOGISTICA Karl Pohler, IFCO CEO, offered a Berlin food bank 3,500 reusable containers for collecting the 150 tonnes of fresh fruit and vegetables left over from the trade fair. Sabine Werth, Director of the Berliner Tafel e.V. (food bank), was presented with a symbolic green returnable container. Messe Berlin was also commended for its many years of support for food bank at FRUIT LOGISTICA. The Berlin food bank now has a large number of reusable containers for this and similar projects. (Hall 20, Stand B-02. Contact: Viviane Zenau, tel. +49-89-7590050, e-mail: v.zenau@worldwide-responsibility.com)
Burkina Faso seeks new buyers for green beans
'The trade fair has been a great success for us. Potential customers from England, Spain, Germany and the USA visited our stand. We were also able to see what our competitors are doing and learn about the GlobalGap certification system'. For Marie Claire Kadeoua, this is the first time at FRUIT LOGISTICA. Her aim is to open up new markets for Burkina Faso beans. Kadeoua is the national coordinator for the PACVA project. This is an initiative that works to modernise the value chain in the West African fresh produce sector with support from the United Nations and the Italian government. The aim is to fight poverty and increase the income of small farmers and other operators. Beans are the primary target product and an important crop for Burkina Faso. But production has fallen sharply in recent years. Two cooperatives with a total of over 1,150 members and a current harvest of 750 tonnes are involved in the project. 'We mainly exported beans to Italy in the past. But it is always risky to be dependent on a single buyer. That is why we are looking to find new customers here'. (Hall 5.2, Stand C-03. Contact: Marie Claire Kadeoua, tel. +226-70267774, e-mail: kadeouataminy@yahoo.fr)
Chiquita to develop fresh produce departments
Fresh produce departments represent enormous image-building potential for the industry, particularly in these times of recession and tough competition. With this in mind, Chiquita is presenting new perspectives at FRUIT LOGISTICA. The concept goes beyond competitive differentiation based on price alone and is geared towards the emotional needs of consumers at the POS. Retail environments that appeal to the senses and give consumers a special shopping experience increase the desire to spend and the appeal of the products in question. Chiquita aims to develop and improve fresh produce departments in cooperation with food retailers. 'By joining forces with our commercial partners, we can more quickly achieve our common goal of increasing customer traffic and sales', says Ernst Schulte, Managing Director of Chiquita Germany/Austria. (Hall 25, Stand C-08. Contact: Christin von Dahlen, tel. +49-40-37479848, e-mail: christin.vondahlen@edelman.com)
Certified organic Indian herbs and vegetables on their way to Europe
Gopalan Organics, the Indian presence at FRUIT LOGISTICA, is showcasing organic herbs. Basil, chives, mint, tarragon, oregano, sage, rosemary and parsley thrive on the outskirts of Bangalore. The quality is so high that the company has been supplying the British supermarket chain Tesco with its herbs for many years. Various fruit and vegetable varieties with organic certification are currently being grown on 48 hectares of land, says manager Pooja Iyer. Due to the great popularity of produce from Bangalore, the company is planning to cultivate another 120 hectares with fruit and vegetables including pomegranates and table grapes. (Hall 7.2c, Stand A-07. Contact: Pooja Iyer, tel. +91-9902994444, e-mail: gbd@gopalanenterprises.com)
Egypt's presence growing steadily
The size of the Egyptian national pavilion at FRUIT LOGISTICA increased again this year and now includes 55 exhibitors. 'FRUIT LOGISTICA is one of our most important trade fairs. In just three days we can meet with all of our customers, from seed growers and trading partners to packing machine manufacturers', says Product Manager Amr Mohamed El Beltagy of the Belco Egyptian Co. for International Trade. Speaking for all of the exhibitors, the Chairman of the Egyptian Exporters' Association, Sherif El Beltagy, says, 'We find the entire fresh produce industry value chain at this trade show. In this respect, Berlin is an ideal location'. (Hall 2.1, Stand A-03. Contact: Sherif El Beltagy, tel. +202 (0) 27 35 72 13, e-mail: sherif@belco.com.eg)
Pakistan's export development unparalleled
Pakistan is represented at FRUIT LOGISTICA for the first time with an official national pavilion under the auspices of the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan. 'We already sell our mangos to the Metro Group', Managing Director Hussain Imtiaz of Imtiaz Enterprises says. The company also sells around 18,000 tonnes of the 'Sindhri' and 'Summer Chausa' mangos to the major supermarket chains Tesco, Sainsbury’s, Delhaize and Carrefour. 'With a brix level of up to 29, our fruit are absolutely delicious', Ahmed says. The local Kinnow tangerines are also increasingly popular, says Waheed Ahmed, Chairman of the All Pakistan Fruit & Vegetable Exporters, Importers & Merchants Association. In 2005, exports of the citrus fruit totalled 260 tonnes. 'This year, 52,000 tonnes of Kinnows are heading for Russia alone', Ahmed says. (Hall 7.2c, Stand A-05a. Contact: Waheed Ahmed, tel. +92 (0) 21 1 11 66 64 22, e-mail: iacfruit@hotmail.com)
Perfect papayas from Costa Rica
'Above all we want to showcase our new papaya variety this year', says Marianela Montero of the Costa Rican export promotion organisation Procomer. 'The 'Procosí' variety is grown exclusively in Costa Rica. We call it the 'perfect papaya', because it is sweeter than other varieties, has a longer shelf life and is the ideal size – not too big and not too small'. The tasty tropical fruit may very well capture the European market soon. 'We have been able to conclude some excellent business deals at FRUIT LOGISTICA'. The six Costa Rican exhibitors are also presenting roots and tubers including camotes (a variety of sweet potato), yucas, and chayotes, a member of the pumpkin family. And, of course, the Central American country's classic produce – bananas and pineapples. 'In 2009, pineapples beat bananas to gain first place among the export crops for the first time', says Montera. 60% of global pineapple production comes from Costa Rica. The country is committed to high environmental and social standards for cultivation. European consumers in particular appreciate these certifications, which are awarded in accordance with guidelines such as those issued by Fair Trade or Rainforest Alliance, and of the fact that the produce is organically grown. (Hall 25, Stand A-05. Contact: Marianela Montero, tel. +506-2299-4859, e-mail: mmontero@procomer.com)
Debut for Malaysian dried ambarella
Malaysian exhibitors are showcasing fresh Paiola papayas, jackfruit and ambarellas, which are being introduced to the public at FRUIT LOGISTICA. 'We are unable to bring the fresh fruit to Berlin, so we decided to present the stone fruit in dried form instead. The sweet pulp tastes a little like pineapple', says Abdul Rashid bin Bahri, Export Manager of the Federal Agricultural Marketing Authority Fama. The fruit are also known as hog plums. Paiolas are said to have a higher concentration of vitamin C than oranges. Jackfruit pieces can be served in sweet or salty pickles. Malaysia exports fresh produce worth EUR 50 million. 50% of this goes to Singapore, bin Bahri says. (Hall 7.2c, Stand B-01. Contact: Abdul Rashid bin Bahri, tel. +6 03 (0) 61 26 20 20, e-mail: rashid@fama.gov.my)
Smart Protection from BASF
BASF presents new solutions for sustainable fresh fruit and vegetable production at FRUIT LOGISTICA. The company has developed treatment concepts called 'Smart Protection' which make it possible for fruit and vegetable growers to meet today's agricultural standards. These include optimum yield quality, environment friendly production at reasonable costs, and compliance with legal limits on pesticide residues. 'Smart Protection' programmes provide reliable protection against diseases and lower residue levels. They also provide maximum flexibility with regard to harvesting times, the exhibitor explains. In line with the theme 'Living Food Quality Together', BASF is helping partners guarantee sustainability across the entire value chain, from the implementation of sustainable crop growing in the producer countries to the formulation of a comprehensive sustainability strategy. (Hall 21, Stand A-12. Contact: Elise Kissling, tel. +49-621-6027450, e-mail: elise.kissling@basf.com)
Herbs from Palestinian growers for the first time at FRUIT LOGISTICA
Fresh vegetables and herbs are being presented by Palestinian growers from the Jordan Valley for the first time at FRUIT LOGISTICA. The growers have been exporting their products to the UK, the United States, Germany, France and increasingly to Russia for several years now, says Tareq Khaizram. The Agrisector Marketing & Development Manager of the company Sinokrot Global Group continues: '20 growers' associations deliver our premium products. The extraordinary microclimate in the valley means that we can grow crops and harvest out of season'. The food retailer Edeka has already entered into negotiations with Sinokrot at FRUIT LOGISTICA, the manager says. (Hall 4.1, Stand A-15. Contact: Tareq Khaizram, tel. +970 (0) 22 95 57 01, e-mail: tareq@sinokrot.com)
Short-term contracts dominate in Murcia
The Spanish region of Murcia is feeling the effects of the global financial crisis at FRUIT LOGISTICA. A number of long-term contracts were concluded last year, but this year short-term agreements dominate. 'We have yet to see how strong purchasing power will be this year', says Gines Vivancos Mateo, General Manager in the Murcia Ministry of Agriculture. Nevertheless, they are very pleased with how the trade fair for fresh produce has turned out. 'For us, FRUIT LOGISTICA is the most important trade fair in Europe'. The region of Murcia has been represented at FRUIT LOGISTICA for many years now – this year with 36 exhibitors – and represents about 20% of the entire fruit and vegetable production of Spain. (Hall 18, Stand A-10. Contact: Teresa Torres Sarabia, tel. +968 36 27 10 629, e-mail: mteresa.torres@cam.es)
Hungary: from apricots to watermelons
'This is the 13th time that the Agrármarketing Centrum has supported and organised the trade fair presence of the most outstanding Hungarian fruit and vegetable export companies', says project manager Róbert Ivánfalvi. He points out that 16 of the producers represented at FRUIT LOGISTICA represent a total of around 35 Hungarian agribusinesses. Products include apricots, sweet-tasting sour cherries, lettuces, sweet peppers, watermelons and mushrooms. For example, DATéSZ Zrt. has twelve production sites in the south of Hungary and 2,000 growers in a total area of over 20,000 hectares. The company sells 70,000 to 100,000 tonnes of fruit and vegetables each year. This encompasses over 25 different fruit varieties sold as 80 to 100 different products, and 60 different vegetable varieties in 120 different product forms. (Halle 23, Stands D-03/E-02. Contact: Róbert Ivánfalvi, tel. +36-1-4508863, e-mail: robert_ivanfalvi@amc.hu)
Poland with a joint stand from Masovia
The Polish region of Masovia is represented at FRUIT LOGISTICA for the first time, with 15 fruit and vegetable growers at a joint stand. 'We are very pleased with the response we have received at FRUIT LOGSTICA', says Rafael Rzepkowski. 'We want to use the trade fair to draw attention to ourselves both as a tourist region and a producer country'. Key business partners have largely been German clients, he says. However, they would now like to try to capture the Russian market, in particular. (Hall 6.2, Stand D-02. Contact: Rafel Rzepkowski, tel. +48 22 5979 178)
Practical MiniBox from SurplusSystems
The collapsible MiniBox was first presented at FRUIT LOGISTICA 2009 as a preproduction prototype, Hajo Geugelin from SurplusSystems reports. 'We then found a number of interested retailers such as Edeka Südwest, Tengelmann and Netto, who now use the MiniBox. The boxes are unique in that they have the logistical dimensions to fit on Euro-pallets as well as in all standard Euro-crates with the box-in-box system'. The folding box is available in two different sizes: 60 x 40 cm and 40 x 30 cm. Possible uses include grapes in 1.5 kg packages, clementines in 1.8 kg packages and tomatoes in packs of 2.0 kg. Customers can then use the value-added collapsible mini-boxes later as practical containers, for instance for toys, tools or refrigerated foods. (Hall 21, Stand D-09. Contact: Hajo Geugelin, tel. +49-228-42285452, e-mail: hajo.geugelin@surplussystems.de)
Innovations for the fresh produce business – Packaging trends 2010
Innovations revitalise business and attract attention. They also drive profitability. Not only the product is at the centre of attention, but also the packaging, which plays a decisive role when it comes to success or failure. Packaging is what really promotes the product. In this Hall Forum, experts took a look at the packaging trends in 2010, from retail packaging at the point of sale, to packaging for fresh-cut products and other special product groups. The topics also included logistical issues and costs.
Massimo Bellotti, Export Manager at Nespak Imballaggi, Italy, and Jean-Marie Salaun from the La Tour Cooperative, France, impressively described the latest packaging trends for the fresh produce sector. They also explained the long and sometimes complicated path to developing new packaging, as well as the preferences and trends in consumer behaviour and the ecological aspects.
GPC – Optimising procurement processes through classification and standardisation
Electronic media are making new inroads into the everyday fresh produce business. More and more of today's procurement processes are handled electronically. This significantly speeds up operations and improves transparency while lowering costs compared to conventional methods. At the same time, is makes it essential for business partners to 'speak the same language'. And this requires a new global classification of products. GS1 Germany has developed the Global Product Classification (GPC) and the Global Trade Item Number (GTIN, formerly EAN) for clearly identifying products and services on an international scale.
In the Hall Forum, Thomas Fuchs, Director of Business Solutions & Consulting at GS1 Germany in Cologne, and Hanjörg Lerch, in charge of retail standards and industry cooperation at Metro AG in Germany, explained GPC development, principles and applications along with the roadmap for implementation. According to Hanjörg Lerch, his company expects suppliers to introduce and implement the new standard, whereby the process will be gradual and is likely to take some time before it is complete.
