NZ: Mr Apple reports strong demand for 2014 apple season
A combination of good quality and strong Asian, India-Middle Eastern, European and North American demand has seen shipments for this season well ahead of shipments during 2013.
Ben McLeod, Retail Sales Manager: “2014 demand is definitely ahead of 2013 at the same point in time. While last season was a slightly later start, when you compare packouts vs days packing, we are seeing even stronger demand in 2014 versus 2013.”
Mr Apple reports that their quality out of Hawkes Bay this season has been excellent. Wholesale Sales Manager Andy McDougall states, “When you look at the weather the region has enjoyed in the lead up to 2014 and right through to present, we’ve experienced almost perfect apple growing conditions. Our characteristic warm summer days, cooling coastal breezes and ideal amounts of rain have created great quality apples. Colour is fantastic and the eating quality – in terms of juice and crunchiness – is superb.”
Mr Apple exports 25% of New Zealand’s total apple crop to 60 countries around the world. As a result, they get a good feel for global supply and demand.
“Mr Apple supplies a range of customers globally and sales are definitely up across our markets,” says Mr. McLeod. “Growing and weather related issues in other Southern Hemisphere apple production regions have meant less availability of apples in total. As a result, we are seeing increased demand for apples out of New Zealand.”
Strong demand is a situation that suits Mr Apple just fine. With over $20 million invested in the past five years in orchard regrafting, packhouse technology to improve consistency and coolstores to lock in quality, Mr Apple supplies a range of apples to meet global customer needs.
For more information on Mr Apple, visit: www.mrapple.co.nz