The popularity of white strawberries in the Chinese market continues to increase annually, owing to their distinctive appearance and aroma. However, this season's availability has been delayed due to adverse weather conditions, leading to a reduction in production. Ms. Yu Zhenzhen from Yantai Xiangyiyuan Ecological Agriculture Development Co., Ltd. noted that while the demand for high-end white strawberries among consumers is rising, the overall performance of the strawberry market this year falls short of expectations.
"Adverse weather conditions have caused this year's white strawberries to enter the market approximately 20 days later than usual, missing the optimal launch period by about 40 days compared to traditional red strawberries. Moreover, temperature drops in the production area upon market entry are expected to result in a 10% decrease in overall production. Additionally, due to extended growth periods, this season's strawberries are notably larger, with a significant proportion weighing around 50 grams and some even reaching 100 grams, in contrast to the typical 20-30 gram weight."
Yu highlights a shift in consumer preferences, emphasizing that consumers now seek not only the visual appeal of white strawberries but also superior taste and aroma. Consequently, many mainstream varieties are experiencing a decline in selling prices, some even dropping to half of last year's rates.
As non-red strawberries gain traction, an increasing number of growers are venturing into white strawberry cultivation. However, many struggle with mastering cultivation techniques and defining their market niche, resulting in variable fruit quality and subpar pricing. Yantai Xiangyiyuan Ecological Agriculture Development Co., Ltd. distinguishes itself by employing mature planting management techniques and adhering to unified quality standards across its own and cooperative bases, thereby ensuring superior quality and commanding prices double the market average. "The customer group is relatively stable."
"The evolving landscape of white strawberry varieties suggests a polarization of the market within 3-5 years, wherein branding and positioning will outweigh varietal differences in securing favorable prices."
Expanding beyond domestic sales, Yu's white strawberries have ventured into exports, focusing on the Middle East market due to their competitive advantage in aroma and sweetness, which has garnered recognition from local consumers.
Export partners, such as Onedayone Group, view the export of high-quality white strawberries from China as a burgeoning opportunity, contingent upon stringent quality control measures. However, overcoming entrenched consumer perceptions of Chinese agricultural products as low-quality and low-priced remains a formidable challenge.
Yantai Xiangyiyuan Ecological Agriculture Development Co., Ltd. markets white, pink, and black strawberries under the "Yuzhenzhen" and "Nara's Strawberry" brands domestically, primarily through boutique fruit stores.