The consumption of Conference pears in Europe is declining, posing a major challenge for producers of this fruit. According to Mark Evrard, commercial director of the Belgian company Fruit Valley, the solution lies in changing the marketing strategy, with a stronger emphasis on taste and enjoyment.
Conference Pear Production in Belgium: Challenges and Issues
Conference pear production in Belgium faces numerous challenges. Climatic conditions significantly impact yields: a wet spring and abundant rainfall can contribute to groundwater replenishment, which is crucial for pear cultivation. However, some orchards may be affected by hail or drought, impacting the overall harvest. Although yields vary from year to year, fruit quality remains consistently high.
Declining Production in Europe
Belgium, one of the leading producers of Conference pears, has seen a production decline of 20 to 25%. In a broader European context, data from the Interpera international congress indicate an overall pear production decrease of approximately 30%. Besides Belgium, reduced yields have also been recorded in the Netherlands, Spain, and Portugal. Climate change is playing an increasingly significant role in these fluctuations, with extreme weather conditions—such as droughts, floods, and frosts—having a growing impact on yields. Despite these challenges, Belgian producers remain competitive thanks to high productivity, averaging 40 tons per hectare, which is twice as much as in Portugal.
One of the biggest challenges the sector faces is not just production but also the continuous decline in pear consumption across Europe. While lower yields may temporarily increase prices and profits for producers, a significant drop in consumption leads to market surplus issues. The reasons behind this trend do not stem from changing consumer preferences—pears remain popular across generations—but rather from high prices, making them less competitive compared to other fruits, such as nectarines.
Experts from the Belgian growers’ association advocate for a new approach to promoting Conference pears. Instead of focusing solely on their health benefits, more emphasis should be placed on taste and the variety of ways to enjoy them. Pears can be eaten fresh but also incorporated into salads, desserts, and pies.
Additionally, fluctuating fruit prices influence consumer decisions. To ensure stable demand, it is crucial to develop long-term collaboration strategies with retailers and consumers. Producers should also work on improving visual appeal and packaging to make Conference pears more competitive against other fruit varieties.
Challenges in the European Market
The European Conference pear market is facing increasing regulations affecting the use of plant protection products and sustainable production. The reduced availability of protective substances poses a major challenge for growers, who must transition to alternative protection methods. At the same time, consumers are increasingly demanding organic and environmentally friendly products, which can impact market strategies and require adjustments in production methods.
Trade barriers and internal competition also affect the position of Conference pears. Changes in EU agricultural policies can create additional financial challenges for growers. Therefore, producers must collaborate with associations and policymakers to ensure sustainable production and improve market conditions.
The future of Conference pears depends on producers’ ability to adapt their strategies to market changes. A stronger focus on quality, taste, and timely harvesting, alongside enhanced marketing and retailer collaboration, represents a key step toward sustainable sector development. Additionally, adapting to regulations and consumer expectations is essential to ensure that Conference pears retain their place in European consumers’ shopping baskets and continue to be successfully exported across Europe.
Source: Fresh Focus Apple and Pear
