Israel's avocado yields this year will amount to 80,000 tonnes, compared with 50,000 tonnes last year.
Several exporters are planning to significantly increase their export shipments this season, after nearly two years of "lean avocado export seasons."
Agrexco, Israel's largest exporter of fresh produce, plans on supplying its European clients with 35,000 tonnes, out of the total volume of 45,000 tonnes of avocado slated for export by all exporters combined. Gaby Naamani, Agrexco's avocado product manager, commented that the company will focus its marketing strategy in France, where in the past two years shipments of the fruit were reduced "in view of lower yields in Israel."
He added that whereas in the past the marketing strategy in Europe emphasised the price aspect, the company is now focusing its activities on distribution, with the aim of reaching as many sales points as possible throughout Europe. "The purpose is to put our Carmel branded fruit back on the shelves in supermarkets and discount stores, owing to large yields characterised by good quality fruit."
Naamani added that during the beginning of the season, Israeli avocado competed with supplies from Chile and Mexico, and later on with avocado from Spain.
Israeli avocado growers are expecting a good export season this year, also as a result of the strong euro against the shekel and the dollar. It was also reported that there are plans to increase avocado plantations by 1000 hectares within the next 5 years, especially with varieties that are on demand by European consumers.
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