Pumpkins move beyond seasonal market in the Netherlands

In the Netherlands, pumpkins are gradually shifting from a seasonal product to an item available in supermarkets almost year-round. By expanding their presence on supermarket shelves, the Fossa Eugenia cooperative has increased its pumpkin production more than tenfold over the past seven years.

The cooperative expects the market to continue growing over the next 3–5 years. The main drivers are rising consumption and the continued expansion of the varietal range in cooperation with retailers. Organic pumpkins currently account for around 80% of Fossa Eugenia’s harvest, and growers aim to transition entirely to organic production, with a particular focus on butternut squash varieties.

Mechanization and long-term storage play an important role in the development of production. Around 60% of the cooperative’s pumpkin crop is now harvested mechanically. This requires varieties that can withstand damage during harvesting and remain suitable for extended storage, which runs from June to March.

At the same time, production faces climate-related and phytosanitary risks. Last season, drought and viral diseases complicated pumpkin cultivation and forced growers to increase spending on intensive irrigation. The sector’s further development will also depend on farmers’ ability to maintain consistent product quality and adapt growing practices to market requirements.

According to Fossa Eugenia director Ronny Bruijnen, taste and added value are key factors in encouraging repeat purchases. The cooperative is therefore focusing not only on increasing production volumes but also on improving its varietal range. Greater retail availability throughout most of the year is creating opportunities for further growth in the pumpkin market.

Tags: Netherlands