Last week, ASF Edition (Agro Selections Fruits), a company that creates and breeds new varieties, signed an agreement with the company Atlantic Portuguese Apple, formed by the club of exporters of the PGI Maça de Alcobaça, for the commercial development of Candine.
"Its bright pink and reddish color, semi-sweet flavor, juiciness and crunchiness make it the perfect apple to meet market demands," said an ASF Edition spokesperson. "Given all these reasons, and its long shelf life, the Candine has gained international recognition."
The initiative launched by the merger of Atlantic Portuguese Apple and Candine will allow producer organizations to act under a single brand image and premium quality. The goal is to achieve positive market differentiation.
"This agreement is making it possible to cover the market demand for local and quality products. Besides, the production area in Portugal has the right conditions to obtain an apple with an attractive red color," says the company.
There are currently about 500 hectares of this apple planted in Spain, France, Italy and now also Portugal, which plans to have 150 hectares of conventional Candine and 20 hectares of Candine BIO. "We believe that the area will increase in the future and Candine apples will consolidate as one of the best on the market," says ASF Edition. "The strategy for each market is different and varies per country, but in France and Italy, where the harvest is coming from at the moment, it is very important for the product to be present in large-scale distribution and to allow the end consumer to enjoy the best taste experience."
"Candine has a universal taste that is generally appreciated in all markets. We are seeing the greatest potential particularly in Europe, China, Taiwan and Thailand," they say.