The leek market is picking up again after the end-of-year holidays. “In fact, business even continued with us during the Christmas period, which is not a bad thing, but fortunately prices have normalized! In this situation, everyone can make a living,” says Tom Desmet of Desmet Agro.
The producer from Meulebeke, Flanders, describes a volatile leek market so far. “In daily transactions, we had very variable prices. We went from €1 in October to €39 cents at the end of November, which is too little. Costs are no longer what they used to be: even growing leeks costs a lot of money, so we need to achieve a good selling price to be able to make money. Every year we have to give notice, but luckily prices recovered after Christmas. We are currently at a level of 90 cents or €1. It’s fine, not spectacular, but everyone can live with it. Prices must not exceed € either, otherwise we will no longer sell anything. »
Desmet nevertheless expects the market to hold steady over the coming period. “Demand comes from all sides. Spain consumed well until the New Year, and it remains active. Furthermore, Poland finally entered the market a week ago. It took a long time, because they are pushed back to the maximum. They could source most of their supplies from their own production, but now they are starting to be demanding. We also see some demand from France, so we can speak of a good distribution, which makes me think that we will be able to sell well in the coming period. »
Could a possible frost then put a slight damper on sales? “Indeed, the growth of leeks is slowed down a little. The soil cools and production no longer increases. The weight is good, yet there is no question of cutting-edge production. Nor in France and the Netherlands. But overall, everyone is doing well. These are not the biggest returns, it also keeps the market going. A drop in volumes due to possible frosts will not pose a problem in this regard. »
In addition to leeks, the young producer currently markets his celery root. “He is increasingly sought after during this period. Prices are at a good and stable level. I don’t expect that to change either, as the harvest hasn’t been very good. Especially in the Netherlands. For us, it is correct, and as a result, we are facing a market of demand. It’s healthy and always appreciated, because leeks and celery root are export products par excellence. We depend on these products, so when the demand is there, as it is now, we work well. »
For more information:
Tom Desmet
Desmet Agro
Such. : +32 470688774
[email protected]
