Cherry producers are preparing for the new season in Greece, with expectations of a larger harvest this year, according to Antonios Karanikolas, general manager of Thessaloniki-based Karanikolas.
'Last year, Greece only had small quantities of cherries, so this season we are anticipating higher volumes,' he said. 'The weather has generally been OK, but we have had quite a lot of rain in recent weeks that might cause a few problems for production. It is a little early to say though, especially in the mountain areas.'
Karanikolas expects the season to kick off on around 15 May with the Burlat variety, with other varieties, including Tragana, Bakirzeika, Skeena, Kordia, Regina, Canadian Giant, Giant Red, Big Star, Black Star and Craze Star, following on from June.
Although the economic crisis in Greece has thrown up some problems, notably in ensuring payments are received, Karanikolas remains optimistic for the new season, not least due to the performance of some of its main export markets.
'At the moment, we are concentrating on Russia, Italy, Germany and Hong Kong,' said Karanikolas. 'Right now, the most attractive market for our cherries is Russia.'
