This week, fervent anticipation surrounds the arrival of the first greenhouse cherries from Spain at Van Ooijen Citrus, located in Ridderkerk, the Netherlands. Although in modest quantities, these delicacies will be distributed in twelve packages of 1.5 kg each, thus confirming their status as a genuine imperative, according to Lucien Ruiter.
Although the name may mislead, Van Ooijen Citrus has distinctly established itself as an authority in the cherry business. "In weeks 12 through 17, there is a shortage of cherries, which become virtually unavailable worldwide. The cherry season in the southern hemisphere came to an end five weeks ago. The greenhouse cherries provided to us by our Spanish partner come to fill this gap," Ruiter explains.
"However, these cherries are not for everyone. We market them only by order, favoring sales by the kilo over packaged sales. The price is set at 75 euros per kilo (30+). Despite the high cost, transportation costs amount to 20 euros per kilo, making it difficult to make a profit. However, we manage to meet the demand of some experts who are eagerly waiting for them," Lucien continues.
"The elevated location of our greenhouse allows our grower to keep the temperature under control, thus anticipating the flowering and fruiting process. At a time when cherries are rare in the market, this allows us to offer a unique product," Ruiter points out. However, he does not foresee a major expansion of greenhouse cherry cultivation in Spain, given its high expense.
Read the full article: Fresh Plaza
Image: Fresh Plaza
18 Dec 2025
At FNCE 2025, the U.S. tart cherry industry reintroduced the fruit as a functional, versatile ingredient. With a focus on muscle recovery and daily wellness, U.S. dietitians rediscover the value of tart cherries in all their available and accessible forms today.
25 Oct 2024
In New Zealand, Central Otago meets most of the conditions, followed by Marlborough and perhaps Hawkes Bay and Canterbury. However, other important factors to consider are the distance from international and national markets and the possibility of extending the harvest season.
02 Apr 2026
Mercadona strengthens its 2026 cherry campaign with over 6,000 tonnes of Spanish fruit, doubling volumes. A strategy focused on short supply chains, national growers and price stability, supporting key cherry-producing regions across Spain during the season market growth.
02 Apr 2026
A China-based study investigates DMI fungicide resistance in Alternaria alternata affecting sweet cherry. The G462S mutation and AaCYP51 gene overexpression explain reduced treatment efficacy and highlight new strategies for resistance management in agriculture.
