British Apples & Pears Limited (BAPL) has released its 2025 Orchard Census and Storage Report, revealing that UK apple and pear production could decline significantly unless urgent investment is made. The report, based on an orchard census and storage survey, highlights the gap between the industry's potential and current planting trends.
British orchard area has remained stable, 5,577 hectares in 2016 compared to 5,532 in 2025, but 2023 and 2024 saw two of the lowest planting years on record. Over the past five years, growers planted an average of 213 hectares of apple orchards annually, but only 145 hectares are planned for the next three years, a 32% drop. To maintain current levels, growers would need to plant 369 hectares per year.
A significant proportion of existing orchards are aging: 12% of apple orchards and 55% of pear orchards are over 21 years old. Without renewed investment, orchard numbers could halve by 2037. Pears face an even steeper decline, with no growers planning new pear trees for 2026 or 2027 due to poor profitability.
Ali Capper, executive chair of BAPL, warned, "Supermarkets must commit to the British top fruit industry now, before it's too late. With long-term retailer commitments, growers can invest and ensure the future of British orchards and fruit supply."
The report also found that 840 hectares, 15% of total commercial orchard area, is currently fallow, representing a missed opportunity for expansion without increasing land use.
Key findings from the orchard census include 4,120 hectares of apple orchards managed by BAPL survey respondents (representing 92% of the crop), covering over nine million trees. Gala and Braeburn remain the most planted varieties, though both are in decline. Recent investment has gone into varieties like Jazz, Pink Lady, Magic Star, and Cameo.
For pears, 702 hectares are planted, with the Conference variety dominating. More than half of these orchards are over 21 years old. In the past five years, only 20 hectares of pear orchards have been planted annually.
On storage, the survey found that 1,203 stores across the industry can hold 197,271 tonnes of fruit. However, 63% of these are over 15 years old. While current capacity is adequate, upgrading is essential for long-term growth.
BAPL is urging supermarkets to commit to long-term contracts and the UK government to expand investment allowances, maintain labor access, and offer energy discounts. Capper concluded, "This is a watershed moment. With the right collaboration, we can become a British farming success story."
To view the full report, click here.
For more information:
British Apples and Pears
Tel: +44 (0) 1507 353778
Email: [email protected]
www.britishapplesandpears.co.uk
