The European berry industry might be under pressure due to inflation, cost increases, and other challenges, but the berry trade shows ExpoSE/ExpoDirekt remained well visited. The 27th edition of the show focussing on the berry and asparagus market, once again attracted many trade visitors from near and far to Karlsruhe. Exhibitors mention valuable talks and meetings, and the Berry Symposium organized during the show also attracted more than enough visitors to call it a succes.
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Visitors came not only from neighboring states and Southern Europe but also from Scandinavia, Eastern Europe, the Baltic states, and even sporadically from countries like Kazakhstan, Canada, and Peru.
Through the numerous crises of recent years, the asparagus and berry industry has clearly faced some tough years. This is also reflected in the reduced investment readiness among producers. Exhibitors almost unanimously confirmed that fewer investments are being made than a few years ago. This, in turn, leads to suppliers in the industry adapting to the circumstances and offering more cost-effective solutions, whether it be machines, packaging, or other accessories. This brings opportunities to the suppliers of greenhouses and hydroponic techniques and utilities, as the protected berry market has been a new niche, and is now a new market segment. However, the energy crisis and the insecurity in the general market also make growers reluctant to go all-in.
Automation and Packaging
With rising minimum wages, the consequences of climate change, and other challenges such as the upcoming toll increases, 2024 is set to be another interesting year. "Everyone is afraid of the upcoming season," summarized one exhibitor. Nevertheless, the sector seems ready to face the challenges. Especially in the field of automation of harvesting and fieldwork, a lot is currently happening. The goal is to cope with high labor costs while simultaneously ensuring high net yields and qualities.
The wheel is not standing still in the packaging sector either. On the contrary, new packaging concepts, both plastic and paper/cardboard, cellulose, or cotton, are still being introduced to the market, although not to the extent as a few years ago. The increasing reduction of plastic in the European food retail sector plays a significant role in this. However, plastic or hybrid packaging is still in demand for cost or hygiene reasons.
Variety Breeding
Another focus of the trade duo traditionally lies in variety breeding. Many breeding houses and plant propagators take the opportunity to present new strawberry varieties. The new variety Ravellia from Fresh Forward already shows good results.
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For more information
www.expo-se.de