According to Agreste, apple stocks in April were 14% below those recorded at the same time in 2016. The decrease is partly due to a 7% decrease in harvest over the year. Prices in September 2016 were 2% above the 2011-2015 average (and 14% above for Gala apples). Exports in October were more dynamic for Galas than Goldens or Grannys. In December, national demand decreased over the year, except for “club” varieties, due to competition from citrus fruits.
Demand was active for Gala, Granny and Pink Lady apples in January. The Golden market was difficult, notably due to the closure of the Algerian market. Golden prices in February were 3% below the 2012-2016 average whilst other apples were 9% above it. Gala prices remained stable. Thanks to special offers in supermarkets, sales were normal. Exports to the UK were stable but decreased towards Algeria and the Middle East. Prices could not recover, notably for Goldens.
Pear stocks in April were 10% below those of 2016. Following an inactive start to the season in 2016-2017, demand increased in August on both the domestic and European markets. Prices of summer pears, such as the Guyot, were 30% higher than in 2015 at the start of the season due to a production shortage and active demand.
Lack of Williams pears in September allowed for prices to be more stable. Sales were fluid in October. High competition came from Conference pears from Holland and Belgium, countries that have high levels of production.
In January and February 2017, Comice pear sales came to an end. Sales were fluid, despite difficulties selling small calibre Conference pears. Pear prices in March were 19% above the 2012-2016 average.