“Sales of greenhouse vegetables to the retail sector are going well this season. The combination of stable consumer demand and strong cooperation with our retail customers is keeping sales of peppers, tomatoes, and cucumbers at a healthy level,” says Stefan den Hollander, Commercial Director at TNI. “Overall, we are seeing stable demand from our retail partners. We are also noticing a strong willingness to run promotions, creating a healthy dynamic in the market. That gives us confidence for the remainder of the season.”

Forecasts for next week are favourable
The warm weather has had a clear impact on demand for fruit vegetables across Europe. “Last week, we saw exceptionally strong demand for fruit vegetables throughout almost all of Europe. As a result, we recorded our highest weekly turnover of 2026 so far.”

Although demand has eased slightly this week, the outlook remains positive. “After such a peak, you often see the market return to more normal levels for a short period. Nevertheless, the forecasts for next week are favourable once again. As long as the summery weather continues, we expect consumption of fresh vegetables to remain at a good level.”

© TNI

In terms of quality, TNI has had a relatively trouble-free season so far, with no major issues. “So far, we have encountered very few significant quality problems. That is encouraging, particularly given the challenges the sector has faced in recent years,” says Stefan. However, TNI is taking the possible consequences of the extreme temperatures into account. “Last week’s heat may affect product quality over the longer term. That’s why we will be paying extra attention in the coming weeks to aspects such as shelf life, colouring, and overall product presentation. It will be important for the entire supply chain to remain vigilant.”

Retailers entering the pepper market earlier than ever
One clear trend TNI has identified is that retailers are becoming active in the sweet pepper market earlier each year. Customers are also becoming increasingly involved in variety selection. “We are seeing our retail partners become much more knowledgeable about the varieties we grow. Whereas the focus in recent years has mainly been on resistance to ToBRFV, attention is now shifting back towards factors such as flavour, appearance, and the overall consumer experience.”

According to Den Hollander, this is a logical consequence of the challenges the sector has faced in recent years. “Because of the ToBRFV virus, there was a strong focus on finding resistant varieties. That was necessary to ensure continuity of supply. Now that the situation is coming under better control, we are working with retailers to focus once again on product characteristics that consumers can actually see and taste.”

According to Stefan, security of supply has been one of retailers’ top priorities for several years. “Product availability has become one of the most important topics of discussion throughout the supply chain. Retailers want certainty and continuity, especially after the disruptions we’ve experienced in recent years.”

Always guaranteeing the customer’s base volume
He says TNI has made significant progress in this area in recent years. “An important part of our growth is that we work with large-scale, professional growers. This enables us to guarantee our customers’ base volumes almost without exception. At the same time, we continue to invest in an efficient and intelligent supply chain, ensuring products reach retailers quickly and under the right conditions. In this way, we not only ensure that sufficient product is available, but also that it reaches customers in optimal condition. This combination of reliable deliveries, quality, and speed is becoming increasingly important to retailers.”

This week, TNI unveiled its refreshed corporate identity. The launch of the new visual identity follows the company’s 20th anniversary. “Our core values remain unchanged,” Stefan emphasises. “We are, and always will be, a reliable partner with strong relationships and a sharp focus on quality. Our new corporate identity does not represent a change in direction, but rather a modern and recognisable expression of who we are.”

For further information:
Stefan den Hollander
TNI
Tel: +31 (0) 174 519 100
[email protected]l
www.tniholland.nl