There is unparalleled enthusiasm for Apulian cherries, which have been on sale in markets and supermarkets for several weeks now. Considered the most eagerly awaited and mouth-watering fruit of spring, they represent one of the most important products of the region's agricultural sector.
"An excellent commercial response was obtained right from the first hours of harvesting, which can be attributed to the lower availability of goods compared to last season, when the yields were lower than expected, making it a below-average season. It is estimated that there has been a 15 percent drop compared to a year ago. The sales trend is improving due to higher demand than supply. Despite the sudden ripening caused by the recent sunny days, operators eagerly anticipate the bounty of the new season. This weather phenomenon helped them partially make up for the one-week delay, making it possible to ship more packages to customers," says Antonio Guglielmi, owner of the Italian agricultural company Naturaviva and the consulting company Agromnia, specialized in the agricultural and agri-food sectors.
Here's a refined version of that passage with a clear, journalistic tone while staying faithful to the original:
"Prices are satisfactory for farmers, with the average producer price ranging from €4 to €5 per kilogram. The harvest in covered facilities concluded on 30 April, and attention has now shifted to open-field groves with early varieties. Picking has also begun in inland areas such as Turi, Sammichele di Bari, Casamassima, and Conversano. Among the varieties currently being harvested are Bigarreau, Early Lory, and Sweet, as producers await the arrival of mid-to-late season varieties, including the renowned Ferrovia."
Despite strong demand, there are still several concerns. "The weather conditions are worrisome. Last week, hailstorms hit some of our production areas, and this will inevitably reduce the quantities available. From a commercial perspective, however, we do not expect any price drops following the initial period of strong demand. As in previous years, we anticipate a stabilization of prices, in line with the lower yields. Once again, the limited availability caused by unstable weather patterns highlights the need for protective coverings in cherry cultivation," he concludes.
For more information:
Naturaviva Soc. Coop.
Via Puccini, 4
76011 - Bisceglie (BAT)
+39 335 5280240