Two Belgian auctions have announced their merger. Mechelse Veilingen and Coöbra will become operational on 1 January 2013 under the new name BelOrta.
The new co-operative auction boasts 1,145 active member-producers, making it the largest vegetable auction not just in Belgium but also in Europe.
Most of the members are established in the provinces of Antwerp, Flemish Brabant and East Flanders, but BelOrta also has active member growers in adjoining regions in Wallonia, the Netherlands and even Germany.
With an annual turnover of over €300 million BelOrta accounts for 37 per cent of the overall turnover of Belgian fruit and vegetable auctions, more than 70 per cent of which is exported.
A spokesman for the auctions said: “This market-oriented merger will lead to greater economies of scale and a better selling platform for growers, so that everyone will be better equipped to face developments that are playing out among foreign competitors.
“This merger holds advantages in store not only for producers but also for many buyers. Through the extensive product offer, buyers can avail themselves of one-stop shopping which will mean more savings and greater efficiency.
“Quality and food safety are becoming increasingly important. This merger will make quality control even better.”
Pictured left to right are: Chris De Pooter, director of Mechelse Veilingen, and Filip Fontaine, director of COÖBRA who are jointly responsible for running the new merged auction.
