Apricot producers are happy thanks to a year that should be ''exceptional, with harvest increasing 11% compared to 2013, which was already a good year''. Some 7,200 tons will be present in shops and almost 3,000 tons for direct sales or distillation.
For 20 or so years, the canton has invested almost 10 million francs renewing the apricot orchards which allowed them to double their harvest period. Total sales are in a continuous increase, they go over 30 million francs per year. ''Thanks to an equilibrium between the offer and the demand, we will have a good price stability'' says Hubert Zuffrey, Director of the Valais fruit and vegetable Interprofession. This year the Valais will cover half of Swiss consumption.
Other fruits are also benefiting from the weather conditions. Following a bad 2013, cherry harvest should grow by 20%. Strawberries, raspberries and apples should also reach good levels, but the result is that producers will have to drop prices.