Europe: Spanish Intense tomato, high in demand but low in supply

Dutch importer Paul Zuijderwijk explained that supply of Spanish Intense plum tomatoes has been limited by the recent cold weather. Paul, who is selling these dense tomatoes for a third season said, "I cannot meet the demand of my customers at present, supply is just too limited."

"It has been so hot in Spain, that there are lots of very small tomatoes coming through. At the moment we are sorting mostly size MM, which is not normal for this time. I think it will be another two to three weeks before we receive any coarser tomatoes," expects the importer. "The demand is too much, and there is just too little. Demand for round tomatoes has suddenly become high. Last week you could sell tomatoes for 3 to 3.25 Euro, but it is now 5.50 Euro. This is a pleasant surprise, even for the growers."

Paul previously imported Canarian tomatoes, but has now stopped. "I am one of few who presently market Intense tomatoes in The Netherlands. I am only a small player, but I am nicely distinguished by this product and demand is growing, particularly in the food service sector and by processing companies, where this tomato is ideal as it doesn't lose its juice, it's great for cutting into slices or other forms too."

There is still some potential to close contracts until the end of April. The tomato is sold under the Roxy brand.

For more information:
P. Zuijderwijk Import
Transportweg 45
2676 LM Maasdijk
Tel: +31(0)174-520749
Mob: +31 (0)6-53372435
[email protected]