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Panagiotis Orfanos
Editor staff
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Fotis Karampetsos
DTP
Yiorgos Vergouliades
Cover design
Aris Betchavas
Subscriptions
Christina Andreakou



ADVERTISED COMPANIES



COMPANY PAGE



MENELAOS 2ND COVER
TEX 1
MSC 3 In this issue
APPLE CONGRESS 5
FRESHCON MARKET 9 International Apple Congress: See the full program
CHATZIDAKIS 13 and read the international interventions.
ACN NAOUSSA 15
VELVITA 17
BELLA FRUTA 19 Cherries: Without problems in the main production areas.
FRESKON 22
POLITIS 24 Peaches/Nectarines: Minimum production in the early varieties.
Normal in the medium and late



4 REPORTAGE




FRESKON 2022



THE HOME OF THE BALKAN

FRUIT MARKET!




Having established its importance not only for the Greek sector of fresh fruits and vegetables but also
Southeastern Europe, the fair returns more expanded and enhanced than ever, “filled” with new events
and participations.



























Covid -19 may have caused the cancellation of Freskon – International Trade Show
for Fresh Fruit and Vegetables the past two years, but everything is ready for the fair info
of 2022, which thousands of trade visitors and exhibitors from Greece and lots of other
countries are expected to attend. This year Freskon will be held from 12 to 14 of May The trade show is aimed at
2022 in Thessaloniki. The choice of the city is crucial, as Thessaloniki is considered to be packaging and fruit distribution
an important location for professionals in the fresh fruit and vegetable industry, operating companies, as well as importers,
both in the Balkan markets and in those of eastern and southern Europe. exporters, wholesalers, retailers
A great event for the sector of fresh produce returns with even greater prospects and and other professionals. Exhibitors
ambitions, having already verified its international character during the past five years. that are going to take part in
For this reason, in 2022 there will be numerous parallel events, organized by participants FRESKON are also packaging,
and exhibitors which are not to be missed and of course business appointments that will logistics, machinery companies,
hopefully develop into long-term and fruitful partnerships. The participants of Freskon as well as chemical laboratories,
2022 will have the opportunity to make contacts with the leading companies in the sector nurseries etc.
and enter into new partnerships with dealers and producers from Southeast Europe.

Don’t miss the “International Apple Congress” and “FreshCon Market” More information
Each year, the International Freskon Congress focuses on different fruit. In this edition
this fruit will be the apple. In the framework of 6th Freskon “International Apple Congress” about FRESKON:
will take place, which tends to bring together all the professionals of the international • Helexpo: Mrs. Tonia Nikolaidou,
apple sector and give solutions to its main problems. Also,“FreshCon Market 2022”will take Tel.: +30 2310 291 161
again its place inside Freskon bringing together the merchants of fruits and vegetables and e-mail: [email protected]
hosting B2B meetings between Category Managers of the Department of Fresh Fruit and • Froutonea Magazine:
Vegetablesof the leading supermarket chains in Greece and the Balkans and professionals Mrs. Anna Macriyiorgou,
of the fresh produce sector. Tel: +30 210 48 12 212
e-mail: [email protected]



MAY 2022



6 REPORTAGE






INTERNATIONAL APPLE CONGRESS




FRESKON, 12 MAY 2022, THESSALONIKI





In the framework of the 6rth Freskon (12 - 14 May 2022, Thessaloniki) will take place the “International Apple
Congress”, which tends to bring together all the professionals of the international apple sector and give solutions
to its main problems. In the following lines you have the chance to read who will be the speakers of the Congress.



Dr. Walter Guerra
Researcher in the Research Centre Laimburg
Dr. Walter Guerra was born in 1974, in Bolzano South Tyrol. He has a master in Agricultural Sciences at the
University of Padova, Italy and in 1999 he started his research work at the Department of Pomology of the
University of California Davis, USA. Furthermore, he is Secretary of the EUFRIN apple and pear variety and
rootstock testing group, member of the CPVO expert panel for apple, member of the variety commission of
the South Tyrolean Variety Innovation Consortium, involved in the former breeding research projects HiDRAS
and FruitBreedomics and in the ongoing project INVITE, member of the National Academy of Agriculture

Paulina Kopec
Manager of the Association/Marketing and PR in Fruit Union (Poland)
Paulina Kopec was born in 1983 and she is a graduate of Psychology of advertising/Psychology Faculty in Poland.
She has long experience in the marketing sector. The Polish Fruit Union is currently the largest Polish Association
working to promote national manufacturers and distributors of fruit and vegetables. The Association was
founded in 2010 and gathers all the largest export companies, groups and organisations of producers, mainly the
Masovia region.

Marco Bertolazzi
International Business Development Manager of C.I.V.
Marco Bertolazzi has run quickly an impressive academic and job career. He took his Bachelor of Technology
(B.Tech.) Field Of Study Agriculture, Agriculture Operations, and Related Sciences from Univristy of Bologna
in 2011 and then obtained an International Master in Horticultural Sciences Field from Technische Universität
München, an International Master in Horticultural Sciences from the University of Bologna and an International
Master in Horticultural Sciences Field from Universität für Bodenkultur Wien. From July 2017 till June 2019 he
worked as Variety Manager (Business Development) of C.I.V. with his main activities related to new plant varieties
(Apples, Strawberries, Pears and Apple Rootstocks). He took the title of International Business Development
Manager in July 2019.

Alberto Dorigoni
Researcher in F.E. Mach
Alberto Dorigoni, born in Trento, Italy in 1962 and graduated in Scienze Agrarie in 1987, is a researcher at the
F.E. Mach from 1988 and a fruit grower himself. He is carrying out agronomic trials in the 2 experiment farms
of F.E.M. in the Trentino Province. After working on thinning compounds and on the use of PGR’s, the focus of
his trials in the last 15 years moved toward the training system of apple and pear to develop a sustainable
orchard that reduces input of both chemicals and labour and is suitable to mechanization. In the last years
he was invited to present all over the world his vision of a pedestrian 2D fruit-wall similar to the modern
vineyards. Also he invented and patented in 2012 the “window pruning machine”, a device that mimics hand
pruning, designed for reducing labour of pruning. He is giving advice to several big and small orchard owners
in many parts of the world.


MAY 2022

Rafa Povo
Owner of the marketing company Povo and Partners
Rafa Povo during his career has worked at many companies as Creative Director, in charge of planning
marketing strategies. Since 2015, he manages his own marketing company, Povo and Partners, and
undertakes projects for great companies like Syngenta, Heineken, Leroy Merlin, Hyundai etc., while from
2016 he delivers university courses in the ESNE (Escuela Universitaria de Diseño, Innovación y Tecnología),
Madrid.ion.

Dionyssios Valassas
General Manager in the Zagora Cooperative
Dionysios Valassas was born in 1957 in Zagora, Pelion, where he comes from. He is a graduate of the Chemical
Department of the University of Athens. He took his first professional steps in the ALLATINI Food Industry
as Head of the Quality Control Department. It seems, however, that the desire to return to his home country
and offer his services in its development has always been kept alive. Thus, in 1984 he occupied the position
of General Manager in the Zagora Cooperative, which he holds until today. It should be noted that Dionysios
Valassas takes special care of his training, as he participates in many seminars in and outside Greece in order
to keep himself informed on developments and new developments in his field.
Giorgos Poultsidis
Owner of Emphyton
Giorgos Poultsidis was born in 1976 in Naoussa and graduated in Faculty of Agronomy at Thessaloniki.
He specialized in plant production during his studies in University Den Bosch (Holland) and he worked as
trainee in the Apple tree department of the Institute of Hardwood Trees in Naoussa. In 1997 he assumed the
management of his family business and he was the first that brought to Greece the patented apple cultivars,
as the brand KIKU, and introduced the dense form of plantations to the Greek producers. Since then he has
expanded his activities in preserving and packing apples.

Aris Konstantinidis
Sales Manager at Vitro Hellas
Aris konstantinidis was born in 1974 and is a graduate of the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki with a
Master's Degree in Business Organization and Management (Strategic MBA) from the University of
Winchester. He started working at VITRO HELLAS in 2002 in the fruit trees department. Since 2007 he has
been responsible for introducing new protected varieties of fruit trees, as well as being trained in the new
planting patterns of fruit trees. He has been a Sales Manager of Fruit Trees for the last five years at VITRO
HELLAS SA. The company is the industry leader in plant propagation material, maintaining a tissue culture
lab and basic native plantation.


The Congress will be presented and moderated by:

Christos D. Katsanos
Awarded Brand Strategist
Christos D. Katsanos is an awarded Brand Strategist and Counsellor of Total Greenhouse & Total Farm Management.
He is co founder of DKG Group and manager of IQ CROPS and TROPOS BRANDING Co. He is a graduate of Agricultural
studies and Business Administration. He has contributed to the creation of many branded products and processes
and his fields are the markets of the Balkans and Southeastern Europe. More information about him can be found
at www.dkggroup.com., www.icrops.com and www.tropos.gr while responding in person to Twitter messages at @
MyUltraLife.

Fotis Karampetsos
Journalist at Froutonea
Fotis Karampetsos is journalist at Froutonea magazine, specializing in the European markets, with frequent publications
in the international industry Press. While representing Froutonea magazine he has participated as guest speaker in
numerous congresses and events of the fresh produce sector in Greece and Europe.


MAY 2022

8 REPORTAGE







PROGRAMME OF THE FRESKON INTERNATIONAL APPLE CONGRESS




Thursday12 May 2022 Mach)
• Giorgos Poultsidis (Emphyton)
10.30-11.00 Registrations 3RD PART
11.00-11.30 Conference Opening - Greetings from sponsors 13.15-14.15
and organizers THE WORLD OF THE NEW CULTIVARS
1ST PART Get informed of the new apple cultivars. Which of them have
11.30-12.15 royalties and which not? In which countries are being cultivated
MARKETING AND SALES and which is their production volume? What happens in Greece
Is it possible the marketing strategies to increase the apple sales? Speakers
Which are the emerging markets? How do the s/m chains react to • Walter Guerra (Institute for fruit Growing and Viticulture)
the brand projects? • Marco Bertolazzi (CIV)
Speakers • Aris Konstantinidis (VIitro Hellas)
• Paulina Kopec (Fruit Union)
• Rafa Povo (Full Emotion) 4TH PART
14.15-15.00
2ND PART THE APPLE AND THE AGRICULTURAL COOPERATIVES
12.15-13.15 Are the cooperatives necessary for the trading of the apples?
CULTIVATION METHODS AND MODERN What happens in Greece and in Europe?
TECHNOLOGY FOR THE APPLE PRODUCTION Answers and opinions by top cooperative executives.
The apple cultivation changes year after year. New plantation Speakers
methods and new pruning systems increase the yields per hectare • Dionyssios Valassas (AC Zagora)
and bring more profits to the producers. Experts on these sectors
analyze the latest facts and they present to us the next day of the
apple
in Greece and in the world. The Congress will be presented and moderated
Speakers by Mr. Christos D. Katsanos, awarded Brand Strategist and Fotis
• Alberto Dorigoni (Agronomist/Former Researcher in F.E. Karampetsos, journalist at Froutonea magazine


The sponsors

At this point, we would like to thank our sponsors, because the International Apple Congress would not take place, if it wasn’t for them.
Their interest was intense right from the beginning, something that makes us happy for having chosen apple to be the main product of our
conference for 2022. So, we present you the Sponsors of our conference:

GREAT SPONSORS




ASEPOP VELVENTOU


SPONSORS





SUPPORTERS





MAY 2022



10 FRESHLETTER








INTERNATIONAL APPLE CONGRESS OF FRESKON
INTERVENTIONS FROM IMPORTANT


REPRESENTATIVES OF THE INTERNATIONAL APPLE INDUSTRY


Wide interest has been raised among the international apple industry for the upcoming International Apple
Congress of Freskon. Prominent representatives from the entire chain of the sector send their salutations
and their wishes for “fruitful” conversations, while they do not miss the chance to accompany their messag-
es with their own comments on contemporary problems that have to do with all the apsects of the industry,
from the cultivation to the marketing. Froutonea, in order to promote the as deeper as possible brewing of
the different opinions has collected the international interventions and it presents them to you.


022 is definitely the year for here are different factors that
2celebrations: after 2 years with Taffect the production, the quality
no fairs, now KIKU will take the and the sales prospects of the apples.
opportunity and party the 30 years, Such factors are the climate change,
even if it is 2 years „too late“. or more recently, the inputs cost
We start at Fruit Logistica in escalation, such as the manpower, the
Berlin, and our big highlight is the fair energy and the fertilizers.
Interpoma in Bolzano. We present Despite that, the factors with
the KIKU-Gin to the public, invite the most crucial effect on the
global Partner to our new booth development of an orchard during
and refreshed layout, and – most the last decades were the new
important – put our KIKU-apple to varieties and the new rootstocks.
JÜRGEN BRAUN the center. In fact, KIKU is not just an DR. IGNASI IGLESIAS Their effective combination, along
CEO, KIKU APPLES apple – „it´s our KIKU®“. TECHNICAL MANAGER, with the use of the new technologies
30 years ago we started with a AGROMILLORA GROUP will mark the route towards a more
simple goal, reach the consumer rational and sustainable use of the
and explain that KIKU-apples are lifestyle, that eating apples is inputs, with benefits for both the
cool and sexy. With strong branding and valuable Partners like natural environment and the incomes of the producers. This route
ASEPOP Velventos we achieve it. We recently renewed our license has been already declared by the Green Deal of the E.U. The progress
with Velventos for 3 more years. Now we focus grower to plant in the new varieties is great, especially in what has to do with the
the best strain, Fubrax, giving satisfaction for color and quality. At organoleptic characteristics of the fruits, which are being suited more
Interpoma, we will surprise the visitor with our first edition of the and more to the requirements of the consumers. Furthermore, the
KIKU-magazine with history, branding and other brands. spread of new varieties, resistant against diseases, when combined
with new rootstocks, like those of the Geneva series, which show
greater resistance against the Eriosoma lanigerum and the Erwinia
amylovora, or during the replantation process, while they are also
more productive, enhances the increase of the production, and
gives it a more environmental friendly character, reducing the use
of the pesticides. The progressive intensification of the cultivation
is a global tendency, which is accompanied by more limited, two-
dimensional tree shapes, like those of the unique axis or the U-axis.
These shapes make easier the access of the workers, the machines
and in the near future of the robots, facilitating the reduction of the
production cost. Close to this, important steps have been recorded
as well for the monitoring and the digitalization of the cultivation
process. These steps include the more rational implementation of
the agricultural inputs, including sophisticated measurement tools
of the needs for pesticides, irrigation and strengthening of the plants.



MAY 2022

T he South African apple M ore space for apple
segmentation marks the road
industry currently finds itself
in a favourable position production to a fully European 12-months
wise with new plantings coming campaign. I believe it will one of
into bearing. This position coupled the key issues for the future of our
with excellent growing conditions industry, as varietal innovation is
following good winter rain during bringing to the market numerous
the past 2 winters has led to record new apples, while professionals in
yields and volumes being produced. production and retail are tasked with
The challenge to produce maximum finding a viable solution to this choice
class 1 fruit remains a focus area in proliferation. Buyers and consumers
the industry. are facing a large number of options
NICHOLAS DICEY The rapidly rising production FABIO ZANESCO to fill the grocery stores’ shelves, but
CHAIRMAN, HORTGRO / costs are however putting serious SALES AND MARKETING only an intelligent segmentation will
PRESIDENT, WAPA pressures on net returns to growers MANAGER, VIP allow the creation of a set of simple
and shipping costs coupled with the and easy-to-understand options for
major challenges faced with shipping consumers.
logistics are a major concern for the South African apple growers. The number of competing projects is striking, and many are
Hortgro sees a total reset in the market supply model going focusing on the second part of the European apple season, to
forward and believes that logistical and packing innovation will ensure the availability of a satisfying portfolio and a smooth
play a more important role in finding cost effective and sustainable transition to the new crop. Which apples will be the right one
ways to get our fruit to our customer base around the world. for every moment of the year? How the changeover from local
to regional, then to national and continental produce will work?
Which niches must be taken care of and which can be deserted?
The answers to these questions will redefine the shape of the
commercial spaces for apples in the future.


rich and deep assortment, that erbia is currently facing serious
A can meet different needs for 12 Schallenges when it comes to
months of the year, is a key asset apple exports. The sale of apples
to face global competition and to on the largest export market for
better manage sales and prices. Serbian apples so far, the market of
Our goal is to produce top quality the Russian Federation, is currently
apples that can enter the market in in trouble due to problems between
precise commercial windows. This Russia and Ukraine. Although various
articulated and balanced offer is markets for Serbian apples have
an opportunity for our customers, been opened and developed in recent
offering them the right apple at any years: the EU market, the UK market,
WALTER time, in any market. the Middle and Far East market, India.
PARDATSCHER It is no coincidence that the three GOJKO ZAGORAC Due to serious logistical problems and
CEO, VOG new apples ideal for the second PRESIDENT, “SERBIA DOES problems with the collection of their
half of the season were among the APPLES” ASSOCIATION receivables from Russian customers,
protagonists at Fruit Logistica: Serbian apple exporters are in a
Cosmic Crisp®, RedPop® and Giga®. very difficult situation. At the end of
It is essential to differentiate and describe the features of each March apples are still exported to the Russian market, with much
variety, even at the point of sale. We have apples designed to smaller capacity than more than one month before. Also, there is a
respond to modern lifestyles and supported by strong brands that noticeable increasing of apple exports to other markets, especially
can immediately evoke the peculiarities of each product and the India and the Middle East. We can say that in the coming period,
values of the target public. Serbian apple exporters will turn more to new apple markets, in
order to reduce dependence on the Russian market and that they
will continue to diversify the Serbian apple market even more.


MAY 2022

12 FRESHLETTER








Ò Apples





THE LOW CONSUMPTION GOES ON



The trade of the apples is going on at slow pace for the season 2021-2022 and this makes the mer-
chants nervous, because they understand that one more season will be lost, as not only there will
be no profits, but it is also very possible to record economic losses.



We are in front of the gates of May and
the absorption of the apples not only has
not been improved, but on the contrary it
has retreated due to the appearance in the
market of the first summer fruits.
This development is being recorded as
well in the statistical data of the Greek
Ministry of Agricultural Development and
Foodstuff, where it can be seen that the
Greek exports have been retreated this
year about 25,99%, since there have been
exported only 51.045 tons compared to the
68.597 tons during the same time period
of the last year. Egypt, which is the most
important buyer of the Greek apples shows
a significant decrease of its absorption,
about 21,31%, since till 15/04/22 has consumption and on the fact that the apple
imported only 36.022 tons, compared to merchants of Poland and Italy have entered
the 45.778 tons that it had imported in the the countries of the Middle East.
respective time period of the previous year.
We have to change
There is not only the recession In order the Greek apple In order the apple sector to have a
As we have also said in the past, the prosperous future, there must be a
statistics do not show always the truth. Like sector to have a prosperous modernization of the cultivation techniques
in the case of the apple exports the statistic future, there must be and of the varieties. In the cultivation
hide an important truth, which is more or there must be reduces its cost as much as
less known to all the players of the sector. a modernization of the possible and on the same time the yield
Actually, the all know that there is one cultivation techniques per hectare must be increased. This is a
group, with headquarters in the northern difficult algebra problem, but each problem
Greece, that imports high volumes of apples and of the varieties. In the has a solution no matter how difficult it is.
from Northern Macedonia and Albania and cultivation there must be But it needs someone to seek the solution.
then it re-exports them as Greek apples to Such topics, as the production cost
Egypt, avoiding thus to pay the customs. reduces its cost as much as reduction and the rendition per hectare,
So due to this unfair method, the real possible and on the same will be tackled thoroughly by important
volume of the Greek exports towards speakers of global reputation during the
Egypt is even lower than this that is being time the yield per hectare International Apple Congress of Freskon.
shown in the official statistics. Although, must be increased This is an first class chance for each player
ad beyond this factor, the decrease of the of the apple market to learn the most
production should be also based on the modern tendencies in each aspect of the
global drawdown, which has restricted the apple sector. Book your seat!



MAY 2022

Chatzidakis S.A.






COOLING FACILITIES | PACKING HOUSE

IMPORTS - EXPORTS






















Feel the taste!













































15th km. Larisa - Tirnavos,
401 00 Larisa Greece
Τel.: 2490 25301-2 | Fax: 24920 25303

Central Fruit & Vegetable Market of Athens Κ 28, 30
182 33 Ag. Ioannis Rentis, Attiki Greece
Τel.: 210 4838195 | Fax: 210 4838196
E-mail: [email protected]

14 FRESHLETTER








ÒPeaches





PRODUCTION IS MINIMAL IN THE EARLY VARIETIES,

NORMAL IN THE MIDDLE AND LATE ONES!



We are now able to have a first look at the new season of peaches and nectarines, although April is a
month that the weather can always surprise, overturning our current estimates.


The time has come for us to proceed
to the first assessment of the evolution
of production volume in peaches and
nectarines. As in the early varieties the
cultivation cares are in the stage of dilution,
our estimates for these varieties are now
safe, while we now have a good picture for
the middle and late varieties as well.

The picture in the early varieties
According to the observations of valid
production cycles, the frost of March has
caused great damage to the pre-early and
early varieties of peach and nectarine, in
all production centers of the country.
Specifically, as far as the Peloponnese
is concerned, the damage to nectarines in
Laconia, Argolis and Corinth is over 90%,
while in peaches the picture is a little
better, as it is around 70%. The damages
in the area of Tyrnavos are great in all the
early varieties of peaches and nectarines, bear rich fruit this year. We cannot say
while in fact for the nectarines there is much about the quality of the fruits at Ιt is not only the frost that
talk of universal destruction in the early this time, however we hope that there is a is causing many problems
varieties, with the result that the first sufficient workforce to smoothly complete
fruits that will be collected are from the the thinning of the fruits, the collection, as this year for the smooth
Big Bang variety, ie in mid-June. But well as the rest of the cultivation work. Of movement of citrus fruit;
also in peaches the damages are great in course, to do all this work requires money
Tyrnavos, with few estates being the ones and somewhere here begins the difficulties to this we must add the large
that will be able to bear fruit before the for the producers of the area, as they have drop in demand for oranges
middle of June. experienced as a whole many loss-making
The areas of Imathia and Pella have that has occurred on all
a similar picture to that of Tyrnavos, seasons in recent years. European markets
Closing the issue of quality, let us also
where the damage is huge in all the early mention that this season will be at least
varieties, both peach and nectarine.
10 days late compared to a normal year.
The middle and late varieties Marketing
In the middle and late varieties there
The market psychology is not good at the
is no problem from the March frost; so, moment, and it is not expected to improve
more or less all varieties are expected to



MAY 2022

in the coming months. To be precise, the Great Recession and
the war in Ukraine have created a «cocktail of problems» and no
one knows when this «bitter glass» will end.
Producers are in a difficult position, but traffickers are not going
back, as they see that many European markets are not dynamic
this year. At the same time, transport costs have skyrocketed
and chains are finding it difficult to accept an increase in the price
of the product, as they are afraid of low consumption, which has
been visible for about a year now.
If close to all this, we add the fact that a large market for
Greek peaches, such as Ukraine, has been lost or at best will
absorb few products, then you understand why we mentioned
that peaches will have to face a «cocktail» this year problems «.

The conclusion
Based on the above data, we see that by mid-June the
quantities in peaches and nectarines that will be given to us by
the early and early varieties, from all production centers will
be minimal. These quantities will cover part of the needs of
the domestic market, while the rest will be covered by imports,
probably from Spain. Let those producers who have some
quantity of the early varieties keep a small basket, because
usually the Spaniards offer the early varieties at competitive
prices and this will definitely affect the prices of the domestic
production.
From mid-June onwards, however, the scene changes and
what will occupy the peach and nectarine sector is absorption.
We expect that the domestic market will show better behavior
compared to last summer, as the data show that tourism will do
better this year, leading to an increase in fruit consumption in
the summer months.
In terms of exports, things are still murky here, but we more
or less expect them to move as in previous years. However, we
must not forget that in recent years in Imathia and Pella, many
peach crops have been abandoned or uprooted. Therefore, this
year’s total production volume will not be particularly high



MAY 2022

16 FRESHLETTER







“THE PRODUCTION OF VELVENTOS PEACHES


WILL BE OVER 12,000 TONNES THIS SEASON”



The growth of peaches and nectarines in Velvento is evolving
without any particular problems. However, Mr. Nikos Koutli-
ampas, president of ASEPOP Velvento, notes that it is still early
for the industry to make assessments regarding the commercial
course of the season.


We will emphasize mostly
in nectarines. Next year,
NIKOS KOUTLIABAS our production will consist

PRESIDENT of 40% of nectarines,
OF ASEPOP VELVENTOS while our overall goal is
for this percentage to reach
50%. We are also working
Mr Koutliaba, how has the growing
season for peaches and nectarines in on increasing production
Velvento progressed so far? from new patented varieties,
We have had some damage to various
early varieties of some estates, from the purchased by ASEPOP
March frost. Although it is too early to Velvento from Spain
make an accurate estimate of the losses, it
seems that they will not be extensive and
will not significantly affect the volume of
our production.

So what production volume do you
expect this year? Also, when will the
harvest start?
This year is a late year, with the harvest
starting after June 15. Otherwise, if in the
meantime there is no unpleasant surprise, increased by 50% - and it makes no sense
then surely the volume that we will place to sell at a loss. Also, the Ukrainian market
on the market will exceed 12,000 tons. Of is a loss for us. So, in general, it will be a
this total, 35% are nectarines, while the demanding year, but I repeat that it is still
rest are mainly yellow-fleshed peaches. too early to say anything more specific.
Of course, we will also have white flesh
peaches throughout the season. Finally, can you comment on your
plans for your cooperation with KIKU?
What are your plans for planting in the from new patented varieties, purchased by We are very pleased with our
coming years? ASEPOP Velvento from Spain. collaboration - and it was recently
We emphasize mostly in nectarines. renewed for three more years. So our goal
Next year, our production will consist of What do you think about this year’s for the future is to increase the quantity of
40% of nectarines, while our overall goal shopping season? Greek KIKU apple cultivation, expanding
is for this percentage to reach 50%. We I think it is too early to make estimates. the group of our cooperating producers in
are also working on increasing production Cultivation and production costs have all production zones of our country.



MAY 2022



18 FRESHLETTER







“SIGNIFICANT DAMAGE TO EARLY PEACHES


AND NECTARINES OF NAOUSA”



People in Naousa are worried about the new commercial season
of peaches and nectarines, as the loss of the Ukrainian market and
the widespread accuracy undermine the sales potentials.


is a case for any new products they import
to be re-seized by the country’s army.
On the other hand, we expect increased
demand from other countries, which
SOULA SERDARI have accepted millions of Ukrainian
refugees, such as Poland. However,
COMMERCIAL DIRECTOR we prefer to wait and see what the
OF ACN NAOUSA prices of the products will be in the
coming months.

Are there any changes regarding the
cultivated area of Naousa?
Mrs. Serdari, first tell us what is the People abandon peaches and put kiwis
condition of the peach and nectarine and nectarines. The peach / nectarine ratio
crops at the moment in the cultivated is currently at 3 to 1, but the nectarines
areas of Naousa. will further increase their share in the
Problems are recorded in the early Naousa plain in the coming years. Also, in
varieties due to frosts. In some areas, peaches, despite some increase recorded
in fact, the damage is big. However, an by the dark varieties, the predominant
accurate estimate of the situation, as well volume remains the blonde peaches, in the
as some estimate of the total volume of We work with a new, modern quality of which Naousa is unbeatable. The
production, will be able to be made safely sorter of GP Graders in peach and nectarine flat trees also have a
after Easter. small presence on the estates, which will
cherries, thanks to which increase in the coming years. ACN Naousa
In any case, when will the season start? we can meet strict quality is already successfully trading these
Are you afraid that at first you may find products and will increase its involvement
it difficult to satisfy big orders, due to requirements. We are also with them. In addition, cherries, especially
the damage to the early varieties? planning the installation dark-colored ones, are a popular crop, in
The season of peaches will start at the the production of which no problem has
end of May, but I ask myself the question: of a new, modern sorter been recorded so far.
«Will there be large orders this year? Even for the peaches that will
at Fruit Logistica the climate of trade Is ACN Naousa preparing any
contacts was sluggish and there were transfer a part of the investment moves?
many companies which were absent. packaging of the fruits First, we work with a new, modern GP

Is accuracy one of the reasons? from the field to the Graders cherry sorter, thanks to which we
can meet strict requirements regarding the
Increased production costs and accuracy packaging plant quality of the delivered fruits. What we are
erode the margins of big sales and profits. planning now is the installation of a new,
On the other hand, the loss of the Ukrainian modern sorter for the peaches that will
market does not leave anyone unaffected. transport a part of the packaging of the
Ukrainian importers do not know if it makes fruits, those that are harder, from the field
sense to reopen their warehouses, as there to the packaging plant.




MAY 2022



20 FRESHLETTER








ÒCherries





WITHOUT PROBLEMS IN THE MAIN PRODUCTION AREAS



Some damage is observed only in areas of Vegoritida, where the very low temperatures that occurred
in early April caused damage to very early varieties that were in the flowering phase at that time.



A year rich in quantities and good in
quality is expected to be this year for the Macedonian producers
Greek cherries, since with the exception of are preparing for the harvest,
only some damage to only early varieties in
a few cultivation areas, no other negative which will start this year
sign is recorded in the «book» of this around May 8th to 10th.
season. Thus, the Macedonian producers
are preparing for the harvest, which will This year’s cherry harvest
start this year around 8 to 10 May. Let’s nationwide is expected
see, however, how things are in mid-April
in key cherry growing areas in Macedonia, to reach about 80,000 tons
noting that the total production for Greece
this year is expected to be around 80,000
tonnes.

Naoussa: The fruits grow without
problems in the cherry estates of Naoussa.
Although at the time of writing these lines,
it was not possible to estimate the size of
the production with some relative accuracy,
the estimates of cooperative executives
speak of increased production, as the
cultivation of cherries in the area is gaining
ground, while for the time being no losses
have been recorded from adverse weather
conditions. In fact, the producers now
choose mostly dark varieties, which are
preferred by the consumers of continental
Europe, while they are also distinguished in the prefecture of Pella, which is the Star and Black Star. The late varieties of
for their shelf life, as the aim of the industry heavy artillery in the Greek production of cherries, such as Ferrovia, Kordia, Regina,
is to increase the exports of the product. cherries is very good and the estimates of but also the German ones, have also
For this reason, after all, A.C. Naoussa, the farmers of the area speak of a harvest suffered great damage, about 70-80%.
recently installed a new, modern machine of around 60,000 tons. Flowering is at a Finally, the damage is more intense in the
for sorting cherries. different stage, depending on the height area of Drosia, next to Lake Vegoritida.
of the estates, but generally everything Finally, it should be noted that in Pella
Pieria: No problem for the cultivation of goes well. An exception to the good course the dark-colored and resistant to storage
cherries in Pieria, as all the varieties have of the prefecture of Pella is the area of and transport varieties are selected for
come out unscathed from the frosts. With Lake Vegoritida, where many damages planting, although according to cooperative
the data so far, therefore, no reduction of are recorded in the cherries of this area. In executives from the area, there is a
production is expected in Pieria. mid-April the temperature dropped to 4.5 panspermia of varieties in the estates,
degrees Celsius below zero, resulting in the which makes it difficult to manage them
Pella: The general picture of the crops burning of the early varieties Sabrina, Grace more effectively.


MAY 2022

“A HIGH PRODUCTIVE SEASON


IS EXPECTED FOR PELLA CHERRIES”



Flowering is in progress in the mountainous cherry estates of
Pella, while in the lowlands it has already been completed with
excellent results. However, it seems that this season will be late.
The details are analyzed in Froutonea by Mr. Theodoros Mout-
sogiannis, owner of the company Moutsogiannis Bros.





THODOROS MOUTSOGIANNIS

OWNER OF THE COMPANY
MOUTSOGIANNIS BROS




Mr. Moutsogiannis, what production is
expected this year for the cherries of
Pella and when will the harvest start?
Until April 19, the evolution of flowering
is going well. In the lowlands, in fact, it has
been completed. In mountainous estates,
however, flowering has been delayed and
is either in its infancy or there are still
buds that have not yet opened. Due to this
delay, therefore, no estimate can be made
for the volume of production, although of the high quality cherries of the mountain
from what we have described there is no estates, which we pack by hand, after
reason for concern so far. It seems that the first passing them through a hydrocooler.
harvest will start around May 10-15 and However, we are preparing the purchase of
the season will be rich in cherries. a sorting machine, in order to increase the
standards of our work, as we sell both in EU markets prefer the black
What cherries do the markets prefer the internal market and abroad, mainly in and thick cherries and these
and what cherries are grown in Pella? Cyprus, Germany, Poland and Italy. are the varieties that are
EU markets prefer black and thick
cherries and these are the varieties What other products does your selected in the area of Pella.
selected in the area. In particular, many company manage? In particular, many cherries
cherries of the gordia, regina and ferrovia Our company selects the best fruits
varieties have been planted, as well as from its cooperating suppliers, but also of the gordia, regina and
German ones. At the same time, it has cultivates its own fruits, in a total area ferrovia varieties have been
been selected by several producers and an of 25 hecrares. Thus, we are able to
earlier variety, Grace Star. provide our partners with quality peaches, planted, as well as German
nectarines, cherries and apples. Regarding ones. At the same time, it
What volume of cherries will your peaches and nectarines, let me note that
company direct to the market this year so far in our area there are no particular has been selected by several
and how does it manage its cherries? problems in cultivation and, thus, we are producers and an earlier
In a productive year, as it seems to be preparing for a productive year in these
this year, our company handles 1,500 tons products. variety, Grace Star



MAY 2022

22 FRESHLETTER





“AT NORMAL LEVELS THIS


YEAR’S GREEK APRICOT PRODUCTION”



Mr. Grigoris Papoutsis, owner of the company, talks to Frutonea
about the new apricot season and Alfa Papoutsis priorities in
this fruit.











GRIGORIS PAPOUTSIS

OWNER OF ALFA PAPOUTSIS


Mr. Papoutsis, first tell us what do you
think about this year’s apricot season.
On the one hand, we see young
plantings entering production, which -
as far as Corinth is concerned - include
almost exclusively the late varieties of Along with apricots, Corinth, Argolida and Arcadia, while the
Cot International. On the other hand, we we also sell early peaches season for us will end at the end of July,
also had the damage caused by the March with apricots from Thessaly.
frost, which in some areas was severe. and nectarines, while from
The combination of these two opposing the end of June we will What are your priorities for the new
factors eventually led to a production apricot season?
at normal volume levels. However, the start packing the first grapes There are many varieties on the market
peculiarity of this season is the decreased of the season. These with different characteristics. In fact, in the
absorbing ability level of the markets, effort for expanded exports, it is a habit of
as the recession and the war in Ukraine are the seedless varieties the Greek industry to focus so much on the
complicate the situation both in the of the Volcani Institute issue of post-harvest lifespan, forgetting
domestic market and in foreign markets. other parameters. However, because the
and specifically for Early Greek market has begun to place more and
When will Alfa Papoutsis start selling Pearl, Starlight and Prime more emphasis on taste, our company has
apricots and on which varieties does decided to focus on a few varieties, which
it focus? which we cultivate in are distinguished for this feature.
We start packing the first batches from our own estates
the first week of May, focusing at that Finally, what other products can
time on the new, orange-red varieties of buyers get from your company, along
CEBAS. The market has highlighted them with apricots?
as the most delicious of all the early Along with apricots, we also sell early
varieties, while the red varieties of Cot peaches and nectarines, while from the
International will be harvested some days end of June we will start packing the
later. Then, in June, we will start working first grapes of the season. These are the
with the traditional varieties, namely seedless varieties of the Volcani Institute
Tirynthos apricots, Orange Red, Lady Cot and specifically for Early Pearl, Starlight
and Bebekou. In general, our company and Prime which we cultivate in our own
will market apricots from the regions of estates.




MAY 2022