The composition of market channels differs within Europe. Northern countries (for example Germany, the UK, the Netherlands and Belgium) have a highly dominant retail channel. France and Spain go even further with large hypermarkets, alongside smaller specialist shops. Countries in the Alpine region (for example Switzerland and Austria) are more favourably disposed towards small local shops.
Tips:
- Find trade partners at trade fairs such as Fruit Logistica.
- Find the right partner: importers/distributors differ in their relationships to the retail sector. Some are suppliers for private-label products, while others have their own brands or market the brands of specific producers (cooperation). Choose an importer that fits your company best.
- Delivering to supermarkets is very demanding in terms of buyer requirements. Contact an experienced importer or distributor before entering the European market. As an exporter, you must meet precisely all of the requirements of retailers.
- For general information about market channels and segments, consult the Market Channels and Segments document available at the CBI market intelligence platform.
Opportunities in added value
Many varieties of beans and peas are packed fresh or sometimes sold frozen, which is the case with sugar snaps, for example. For these specific varieties from developing countries, it can be interesting to explore the possibility of combining fresh exports with supplying frozen products.
Tips:
- When exploring frozen supply, use company databases such as Europages to find out which companies in Europe are active in frozen vegetables.
- For more information on canned and frozen beans and peas in Europe, see the CBI market information on processed fruit and vegetables.
