While most auctions usually involve items like artwork and other rare stuff, a pair of melons just fetched a record-breaking $29,000 at a Japanese auction.
Premium Quality Fruit
The two are part of an estimated 507 melons shipped by eight farmers in Yubari, Hokkaido. The area is popular for producing quality fruits like the ones that just broke previous sales records. The bidding took place at the Sapporo wholesale market
Moreover, it reportedly breaks the older record held by another pair of the same fruit in 2016, which sold for an estimated $27,540. According to financial experts, the higher amount is a good sign as it shows the current strength of the Japanese economy. The auction is just the first of many that are scheduled for this season.
Something Special For Customers
The winning bid for the pair of Yubari melons was made by Shinya Noda, Hokoyu Pack president. Sources reveal that the vegetable packaging company executive already intended to break previous records when he placed the $29,000 bid.
"I wanted to make a record-setting bid by all means," said Noda.
He plans to keep the fruits on display until the end of the month. The company plans to slice and share pieces of the cantaloupes to its customers, free of charge.
In Japan, it is customary for businessmen to buy summer gifts for their clients and customers during late spring. Commonly, these include items such as beer, cookies, premium slices of meat, and expensive fruit.
The latter is not limited to melons only as mangoes and cherries likewise command a high price depending on their quality or place of origin.
Price Comparison
Selling a pair of Yubari melons $29,000 definitely gives an impression that fresh fruits in Japan are expensive. Yet, it is not unusual for some buyers to spend insane amounts of money for premium varieties of the products.
However, it does not mean that all fruits are generally expensive in the country. Reports provide a quick comparison to give people an idea of the cultural differences between countries.
For example, affluent buyers in the west might go for items such as wines, truffles, and other rare spices like saffron. In Japan, expensive fruit or meat is seen as a status symbol for the wealthier members of society.
In fact, Yubari melons are not only sold in auctions, but classy department stores also offer $100 varieties as gift items. People who have tasted and compared the premium and regular fruits claim there is a big difference in color, size, aroma, texture, and most importantly, taste.
