Last year, the total blueberry acreage in France continued to grow at a moderate rate of 6%. Although still minor compared to other crops, this progression is atypical in the declining French agricultural landscape and is attracting new growers into the crop. Since 2017, consumption has multiplied by 6 in volume and by 5 in value. According to studies, blueberries are mostly consumed between April and August. 64% of blueberries are purchased during this period, with a peak season in May.
2022 began with a severe episode of spring frosts, fortunately the damage was less severe than the previous year. An exceptionally warm summer resulted in an excellent quality crop. From mid-June to mid-July the market was oversupplied and it soon became difficult to maintain satisfactory prices. All of this led some growers to opt for the late season, with rabbit's eye blueberries, such as the Centrablue variety, native to New Zealand.
Source: blueberriesconsulting.com