Over 2,543 exhibitors from 78 countries have converged on Berlin for Fruit Logistica 2013, which takes places from 6-8 February.
Speaking at Wednesday’s opening press conference, Messe Berlin's chief operating officer Dr Christian Göke said this year’s event was once again more international than any other trade fair in the world.
As one of several panelists at the press conference, Göke highlighted the increasing consolidation of production, services and trade within the industry.
Using a case study to illustrate his point, Göke said the combined market share of the eight largest retail companies in Germany in 1999 amounted to 70 per cent, whereas the four largest food retailers now control over 85 per cent.
Driving fresh produce consumption levels, which are static or declining in many countries, was another topical issue.
German Fruit Trade Association president Dieter Krauß said that while many consumers know about the health benefits of fruit and vegetables, they no longer have an emotional connection to fresh produce.
Krauß went on to suggest this was due, in large part, to the retail industry, where fresh produce is advertised almost exclusively on the basis of price.
In order to try and counter the issue, the trade association has developed the qualification ‘fruit and vegetable retail industry specialist’.
Salespeople with this training should not only invite customers to taste samples, but also provide expert advice on the taste and merits of certain varieties, on shelf life, and on different ways in which the product may be used, Krauß said.
With 456 participants, Italy is once again the country with the most exhibitors at this year's Fruit Logistica.
Peru is the official partner country of the event.
