New Zealand apple growers mostly had better weather conditions than they endured during the 2014 season, which made for fruit with excellent sugar content, or Brix, and starch levels, excellent eating quality and colour, according to Mr Apple’s Mark Pay. “Feedback on Mr Apple’s colour and eating quality of DIVA™, NZ Queen, Late Queen / NZ Rose has been very positive from the market.” A number of customers showed a preference for Mr Apple’s Royal Gala over alternative Southern Hemisphere suppliers because of both the presentation of the fruit and the eating qualities, he told Fresh Plaza.
There were some interesting ups and downs within the export markets, in particular a record crop in Washington in the US, Polish exports affecting the European market and currency fluctuations. Larger growers were able to cope with these conditions, however some smaller ones faced significant challenges when demand dropped in key markets because of them, Mr Pay said. “The seasonal challenges and changes are just part of the excitement of the fruit industry, and why it is important to keep all markets open and supported.” Mr Apple DIVA™ branded apples were in high demand because of the consistent taste, quality and food safety, according to him. “Customers demand food safety standards, consistency, quality and delivery on their programmes and use brands as a way to select fruit they trust and enjoy,” he said. “DIVA™ and Mr Apple branded fruit has again had high demand because of the consistent delivery of great tasting, quality NZ apples.”
The Chinese market was also a focus for Mr Apple this season, and the company opened an office in Shanghai together with Primary Collaboration, as a joint venture to supply market information and research. The end of the season is looking strong, according to Mr Pay. “With the CA and long-term storage fruit about to be packed, the 2015 NZ apple season has certainly had its challenges over the last few months, however it looks to end on a good note.”
For more information:
Mr. Apple
E-mail: info@mrapple.com