As the French strawberry season is starting, Emeline Vanespen, director of the producers' association Strawberries Raspberries of France, assesses the situation. "We have just begun the strawberry season with the first volumes of Gariguette. Production is a little ahead of schedule in southeastern France, but the southwest of the country and Brittany are about a week behind schedule. This delay is mainly due to the lack of light in these production basins during the winter, despite the mild temperatures."
60,000 tons of French strawberries expected this year
The very slow increase in volumes foreshadows more pronounced production peaks. "Overall, surface areas are similar to last year, with equivalent quantities. We are expecting approximately 60,000 tons of French strawberries. However, the delay in production could lead to a more marked consolidation of production later on. This year, we are indeed seeing a delay in the early rather than the normal itineraries. This is our fear for the season ahead."
The French and Spanish origins could collide
This fear is heightened by the fact that Spanish strawberries are also behind schedule and that Easter will be celebrated early this year. "So far, Spanish strawberries have not been particularly present on the French market. The delay in Spanish production could have a greater impact on the French strawberry trade if both campaigns have their production peaks arriving at the same time in April. On the other hand, the demand for Easter is always particularly dynamic. And since this year's festivities fall very early, we might not be able to satisfy the demand for French strawberries despite this year's slight increase in volumes."
Production costs still on the rise
In terms of consumption, the weather is not yet very favorable for strawberries, but the interest in French products remains palpable. "We feel that there is a demand for the French origin. We hope that once the weather improves, consumers will turn to French strawberries. Retailers also know that as labor costs continue to rise, so do production costs. With labor accounting for 60% of strawberry production, this cost should be reflected in the selling price if we are to guarantee fair remuneration to our producers."
For more information:
Emeline Vanespen
AOPn Fraises Framboises de France
[email protected]