For years, Mexican pepper growers have been key suppliers to the North American market alongside Canadian growers. From the Netherlands, Feeling Fresh coordinates the supply from several Mexican greenhouses to John Vena Inc. Specialty Produce in Philadelphia. These Mexican peppers are delivered alongside Dutch and Spanish peppers to ensure year-round availability for customers across North America.
"From the day I started Feeling Fresh, I sought partnerships with Mexican growers. After three years, we succeeded in securing a year-round supply of coloured peppers from various growing regions in Mexico. All of the peppers are cultivated in state-of-the-art greenhouses, equipped with the latest technologies," says Marcel van der Pluijm.
"This week, the first truckload of yellow, red, and orange peppers for the new season under our Lissy's brand will be shipped directly to John Vena Inc. Specialty Produce, our partner in Philadelphia. Within four days, the peppers go from greenhouse to this destination."
"John Vena has been an importer from the very beginning, and we've been in contact for over 30 years. They serve as our hub for the North American market. At the moment, we mainly serve the northeast coast, but we aim to eventually cover the entire country," Marcel explains.
The Mexican peppers are available in three colours in 5 kg boxes, with small packs also among the options. Overall, Marcel notes that the pepper market has been somewhat challenging this year. "We're seeing the same in the Netherlands, where prices for yellow and orange peppers dropped again today. Last year, we were able to sell well for four months starting mid-June, but now the market is generally weak. The question is what the coming weeks will bring, but for now I'm expecting an overall lower price level."
According to Marcel, US import tariffs have not yet negatively affected trade. "At the moment, there is a 10% import duty, but we're closely monitoring developments. Ultimately, we hope a proper trade agreement will be reached between the EU and the US, and that the duty will be removed for our fresh vegetables."
For more information:
Marcel van der Pluijm
Feeling Fresh
Mob: (+31) 653372891
[email protected]
www.feelingfresh.nl