Slovenian retailer Mercator has refuted claims it pulled Israeli-sourced fresh produce from its shelves.

Following press reports alleging the supermarket chain had bowed to pressure from the anti-Israeli Boycott Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) movement, www.freshfruitportal.com enquired directly with the retailer.

Media reports claim avocados, grapefruit and dates have been taken off the shelves, prompting a summons of the Slovenian ambassador to Israel for a meeting at the Foreign Ministry in Jerusalem.

However, Mercator emphasizes ‘there is no such boycott’.

“"Mercator in accordance with good business practice considers actual market circumstances, constantly seeks optimal purchasing resources and suppliers and respects products’ declaration regulation,”" says a statement sent to www.freshfruitportal.com.

"“Any other allegations are unfounded and untrue.”"

Mercator’'s primary markets are in Slovenia, but it also has retail chains in other Balkan countries including Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia and Montenegro.

www.freshfruitportal.com