From now on, the combined volumes will be marketed centrally through BelOrta. With this collaboration, both cooperatives aim to give Belgian blueberries a stronger market presence and ensure that this local quality product earns a prominent and visible place in the ranges of Belgian retail, wholesale and speciality stores.
Both cooperatives will continue to offer their blueberries under their own brand names in open packaging (12 x 125 g in cardboard punnets and 15 x 150 g in silver-coloured trays). For closed packaging, BelOrta and Coöperatie Hoogstraten have chosen a joint market approach via BelOrta.
This collaboration is further strengthened by the joint label Lokaal & Kwaliteit (Local & Quality), which both organisations launched several years ago. The label highlights the Belgian origin of the products and the short supply chain that guarantees optimal freshness. It also stands for authenticity, sustainability and transparency — values that are becoming increasingly important to conscious consumers. In this way, we respond perfectly to the growing demand for local products.
While global blueberry production is rising sharply, Belgian supply has in recent years been stagnant or even slightly declining. We are all aware that we hold a unique product in our hands: hand-picked, high-quality blueberries grown in Belgian soil. This is something we must cherish and support throughout the entire chain, from plantation to consumer.
Together with our growers, we are committed to strengthening this local supply once again. By joining forces and making use of the strong Lokaal & Kwaliteit label, we are providing a clear answer to the growing consumer demand for local and trustworthy products.