The season lasts through to November having started a little later than the regular raspberries. The raspberry market in general in the UK hit a bit of a dip but is now coming on fairly strong, but prices can vary quite a lot, the Kwanza, however is a premium variety and tends to fetch a higher price. "Although production has more than tripled since we started, volumes are still limited," explains Ed Velasco from Rodanto, who grow the raspberry on a farm in Kent. "The demand is pretty stable, as is the price."
In 2015 production was 20,000 kg, this season they expect to produce approx 65,000 kg.
Whilst other raspberries will sell at around £1 a punnet, Kwanza will fetch between £1.50 - £2.
Rodanto supply wholesalers predominantly, the berries thereafter finding their way to caterers, up market hotels and restaurants but it does sometimes find it's way onto markets stalls too.
What is so special about the Kwanza? It has a much larger berry, bigger than a 50p coin, it has a much sweeter taste and is a brighter colour than your average raspberry.
For more information:
Edward Velasco Rodanto
Tel: +44 (0)208 150 3044
Email: edward@rodanto.co.uk
www.rodanto.co.uk