The dried fruit market continues to grow, driven by favorable consumer trends. Raphaël Primeurs, a French family business founded 50 years ago by Raphaël Ohayon and now managed by his sons Georges and Albert, perfectly illustrates this dynamism. Specializing in dried fruits, nuts and olives, the company has distinguished itself by its demands for quality. “We work with a product, a variety, an origin,” specifies Manon Gayraud, deputy director, who underlines the importance of limiting sources of supply to guarantee constant quality, who spoke with Freshplaza.
Healthy and trendy products
Previously perceived as a niche market, dried and nut fruits now appeal to a wider audience. The growing demand for healthy and practical products, particularly for snacking or sports, has transformed the sector. “Dried fruits have become essential. Products like cranberries or goji berries, previously little known, are now widely democratized,” explains Manon Gayraud. This popularity allows Raphaël Primeurs to diversify its offering and expand its range.
Despite market growth, some crops are experiencing difficulties this year. This is the case for the Turkish fig, one of Raphaël Primeurs’ specialties. “The harvest is underway, but the weather conditions have been unfavorable, leading to smaller sizes than usual,” Gayraud told Freshplaza. However, the company assures that it will be able to offer large calibers, faithful to its reputation for excellence.
The Agen prune, another flagship product, will be available from the end of September. Although the harvest looks generally satisfactory in terms of volumes, excessive rains have affected the sugar content of the fruits. Consumers should therefore expect a flavor that may be less sweet than usual.
Rising prices for certain fruits
The grape market is, for its part, facing a surge in prices. Bad weather conditions in Turkey have led to a drop in supply, pushing market players to turn to the southern hemisphere, particularly Chile and South Africa. This pressure on demand contributed to a sharp increase in prices, particularly for the blond Golden and black Sultana or Flame grapes.
Despite these challenges, certain fruits are doing well. Apricots, for example, are having an exceptional season. “The harvest is abundant and the large calibers are there. We even manage to sell the super jumbo at the price of the jumbo,” rejoices Gayraud.
What about the future?
In November, the company will begin the Deglet Nour date campaign, while the new harvest of Medjool “candy” dates, a fresh and particularly popular variety, is already available.
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Raphaël Primeurs continues to ride the wave of success, driven by a growing demand for healthy and natural products. If certain crops suffer from climatic hazards, the company manages to maintain a diversified and quality offer, while innovating with new references adapted to current trends.
