The apple market is quite dynamic at the moment. Overseas destinations like the Middle East and South Asia are taking a lot of volumes,” explains Benoit Carreau, sales manager at SICA Gerfruit and apple producer. “At the European level, the German market is a little less active for the French apples because there are still some German products present, but this supply is getting lower. This gives good prospects for the French apple in the coming months. As for the domestic market, I would say that it is balanced.”
A new organic variety
SICA Gerfruit has just completed its first harvest for the Swing Bio variety. It is a new exclusively organic variety grown in France. Benoit is happy with the first results. “We were able to harvest 500 tons this year. The variety is sold in France as well as abroad. We are currently developing sales in Asia, among other markets.”
Benoit explains that the Swing apple was always predestined for organic farming. “The variety is naturally resistant to scab and powdery mildew and not very susceptible to aphids. It keeps very well and can be on the market until the end of June.” The group of producers is making rapid progress on this project. The different producers planted more than 100 hectares in 3 years. This apple has its origins in the forests of Central Asia.
About Gerfruit
SICA Gerfruit is a group of producers located in the Loire Valley. The group grows apples over an area of 850 hectares. The total production is around 50,000 tons for some 20 different varieties. The Gala remains the most cultivated variety. The group also offers more classic varieties like the Golden, Granny and Chanteclair, as well as club varieties like the Jazz and Envy. The apples are mostly known under the brand Mylord.
All the Gerfruit orchards have the Eco-friendly Orchards and HEV Level 3 certifications. 85% of the orchards are certified Bee Friendly.
For more information:
Benoit Carreau
SICA Gerfruit
Phone: +33 (0)2 43 38 11 67
Mobile: +33 (0)6 11 88 65 02
bcarreau@mylord.fr
www.mylord.fr