Own melon production in Costa Rica restarted

The new Costa Rica melon season is about to start.
The first melons are expected in week 9, about 2 weeks later than normal.
Due to unusually high rainfall late last year and this January, Staay Food Group opted to plant the melons later.

“We also decided to extend the supply from the growing sites in Brazil to ensure a good seasonal match,” said Matthijs Vlasblom.
This Costa Rica season’s range includes, in addition to yellow and Galia melons, both seeded and seedless watermelons.

“After the Costa Rica season ends, we will continue working together on melon growing with our cultivation partners in Spain so that we provide a year-round supply from Brazil, Costa Rica, Panama and Spain.”

Extra cultivation of mini watermelons
“For some time now, we have seen an increasing demand for mini (seedless) watermelons. This is why we have put extra focus on growing these melons. We are pleased to have succeeded in growing more volume of these varieties this season,” says Matthijs Vlasblom.

Spread of own production
For stable supply, Staay Food Group has spread its own production over four locations in Costa Rica and two locations in Panama.
“With increasingly uncertain weather conditions, it is important that we continue to work on risk diversification.”

“Due to the erratic weather pattern, we expect a bit less volume from Costa Rica overall this season. Due to the rain, we are experiencing dropouts – both in the field and in our rigorous grading. The first shipments make us feel positive and we look forward to the first arrivals for our European retail, foodservice and wholesale customers.”