Fedemco backs expansion of Spanish supply

Providing backing to exporters in their efforts to open up new markets is a priority for the Spanish federation of wooden container manufacturers, Fedemco.

Wood is highly resistant and does not warp easily, making it an ideal candidate for supporting long voyages.

With the closure of the Russian market, it is clear that Asia and the Middle East are bound to be the main poles of growth, but along with these new opportunities there will also be new requirements and demands.

“Our members can rest assured. We fulfil all the conditions to meet all the requirements demanded in these new markets,” said marketing manager Roberto García.

Another of the objectives set this year by Fedemco, is to achieve greater penetration in the retail sector. “In many supermarkets, wood is only used for fruit containers on the odd occasion for promotion, but this excellent support material can be used all year round and our goal is to get retailers to understand its advantages,” García said.

Wood improves the product image and increases its value through a more painstaking presentation. In addition, given it is sustainable and recyclable, it is a truly environmentally-friendly contribution.

And in recent studies by the University of Barcelona, wood was found to be 100% hygienic due to its antimicrobial properties. Biological produce continues to increase and is the perfect niche for Fedemco, as wood will always be the best backup for a coherent ecological project.

According to García, it is a market on the rise:

“Organic produce is on the up and up: this market is bound to continue to grow in volume and our members will also gradually increase their presence in the sector.”

Always at the forefront of innovation, Fedemco’s members are exploring new small box formats, designed for high-end niche markets seeking better packaging presentation for their fruits.

Along with this, they are developing new finishes for glossy printing on wood as well as new formats in lids with handles or stapling. These contributions will be especially welcome in the berry and citrus sectors, which is where Fedemco’s members have the highest penetration.

This article was first published in edition 145 (Sep-Oct 2016) of Eurofresh Distribution magazine on page 117. Read more technology and other fresh produce news from that issue at: www.eurofresh-distribution.com/magazine/145-2016-sepoct.