Many traders and importers at the European Center’s Early Market (Mabru) in Brussels, Belgium, feel resigned. This mood prevailed throughout most of last year. A visit to several traders just before the festive season provided the same answer, “It’s quiet.”
The latest COVID-19 measures are partly to blame. Those are still limited for the Belgians compared to the Netherlands. A lot less money is being made on the Mabru. By 07:00, many traders had decided to call it a day.
“We’re making sales, but it’s getting quieter,” says Franck Valckenier. This statement personifies the prevailing feeling during these pandemic times, especially during the most recent holidays. “The corona crisis and rising consumer costs mean people have to tighten their belts.”
“Energy prices, among other things, are rising. The market then seems to bear the brunt. Those people who are unaffected by these rising costs are away on vacation. Let’s hope things pick up in the new year. But I don’t dare make any predictions about that,” Franck explains.
Wholesalers, Michel NV, Frans van Cleynenbreugel, and Vrijders agree that the crowds stayed away from the Early Market. So Vrijders’ Gerrit de Vlieger is mostly optimistic about 2022. “For now, it’s quiet. Soft fruit is in demand. However, the demand for apples and pears will pick up again after the festive season. We specialize in those. We’ll have to see how that plays out.”
Fruit Vandepoel is a bit of an exception, foot traffic-wise. Many of this wholesaler’s clients are more upmarket fruit and vegetable traders and market vendors. It experienced a slight peak during the holidays. “Christmas is a family affair in Belgium. This means, especially with the current measures, a lot of people eat at home,” says Steven Jacobs.
That benefited the wholesaler, which specializes in premium products. “Exotics and wild mushrooms do especially well during the festive season. We get much demand for stone fruit from Australia and Peru. And flown-in pineapples are popular.” Niche product sales, too, are increasing. “Things like lemon caviar or mini fruit and vegetables are becoming more and more popular,” he concludes.
For more information:
Franck Valckenier
Valckenier Bvba
Email: [email protected]
Gerrit de Vlieger
Vrijders Bvba
Email: [email protected]
Steven Jacobs
Fruit Vandepoel Bvba
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.fruitvandepoel.be
