Israeli exporter Agrexco is looking forward to its winter salads season with bullish optimism thanks to some new variety developments.
Growers in Israel have planted three new capsicum varieties specifically for the UK market. Triple Star, Paso Doble and Sympathy. They are expected to boost Agrexco's position in the marketplace as they produce medium-sized and large peppers.
Growing conditions have also been very good so far this season and ideal weather at planting is expected to help produce a bumper crop. Agrexco is forecasting a 15 per cent volume increase over last season and exports are likely to reach 25,000 tonnes: 25 per cent of which will come to the UK.
"Quality and yield this year are excellent," said Steve Hopkins, product manager for capsicum and cherry tomatoes at Agrexco UK. "Our main volumes will be on stream from January to April."
Hopkins believes that Agrexco's decision to concentrate on speciality varieties in the tomato sector is bearing fruit. Cherry-on-the-vine sales so far this season have increased by 25 per cent on last and Baby Maya is performing particularly well. "We are definitely seeing an increase in sales of on-the-vine over traditional cherry tomatoes where production is 20 per cent down as a result of poor returns last year," said Hopkins. "Consumers are becoming more aware of the improved taste and quality of vine tomatoes and are prepared to pay for the premium product Agrexco offers."
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