Raspberry growing was once considered one of the most profitable branches of fruit growing, but times have changed and the situation for raspberry growers has become difficult. The current raspberry purchase price of 250 to 260 dinars per kilogram is not enough to cover the production costs, which amount to about 240 dinars per kilogram, leaving producers with a minimum profit of only 10 dinars per kilogram. The situation is further complicated by the remaining unsold crop from the previous year, as well as competition from cheap Ukrainian raspberries, which, although of lower quality, lower the price on the market.
In these conditions, many raspberry growers will probably reduce the area under raspberry, but clearing the plantation should be the last option. Agroklub offers several alternative ways to monetize the work of raspberry growers, depending on the quantity, type of raspberry and target group.
Alternatives for raspberry growers: how to approach the problem
The first alternative is online sales. Direct selling online can be a great way to find customers. Raspberries can be bought by restaurants, confectioners, citizens for consumption, and processors. Sales can be made through your own website or through platforms intended for small food producers. This will require additional logistics, as customers often expect the seller to organize transport, at least to several points where they can pick up the goods.
Another option is raspberry processing. Processing raises the price of almost every raw material. If raspberry growers have the possibilities and capacity for processing, they can produce jams, juices, liqueurs, fruit wines and other products. It is especially important to think about products without added sugar, which are suitable for diabetics and people who take care of their diet. These products have a longer shelf life and are easier to transport.
The third option is to sell through a cooperative or association of several producers. This model can work similarly to online sales, but shared resources are used, which saves effort, labor and money. The key is to create a sales plan and clearly highlight the advantage that separates you from other competitors, whether it is organic farming, sugar-free products or delivery to the customer’s address.
Let’s go to the greenhouse
Another good option for achieving a better price for raspberries is greenhouse production, which extends the harvest season. When raspberry growers have raspberries in periods when almost no one has them, they can charge much better for them. It is always advisable to produce less, but of better quality. Although it requires more work on organization and logistics, the results will not be lacking when the accounts are settled.
In any case, raspberry growers must be innovative and adaptable, looking for new ways to improve their situation. Sales planning and good communication with customers are key success factors. Customer satisfaction is extremely important, because a good voice can be heard far away, and a bad voice even further. Investing in product quality and efficient logistics can help raspberry growers overcome difficult times and find new sources of income.
Source: AgroTV
Source: boljazemlja.com
