Against a backdrop of limited supply in both France and Europe, and a Spanish production struggling to supply the European market - prices for Spanish flat peaches sometimes exceed €4/kg [4.7 USD/kg] on the French market - the French season got off to a good start and has now entered a "transitional stage."
© AOP Pêches et Abricots de France
French production experienced a shortage at the start of the season, especially for large sizes. The demand for summer fruit has been boosted by the weather, the quality of the fruit, and the lack of competition from imported products. "However, consumption slowed down at the end of July due to the weather (particularly in the northern half of the country). The large volumes picked around the 14th of July have enabled us to rebuild some stocks, which means that we can better meet the demand for all sizes and colors," explains Raphaël Martinez. There is still a shortage of peaches. "Prices are still very good," according to the director of Peaches and Apricots of France. "Prices are sustained by dynamic demand in the face of fairly low stocks, so the situation is healthy. With good weather conditions, we should see a fruitful second half of the season for everyone, with an increased supply of heavy varieties."
© AOP Pêches et Abricots de France
But the 2025 season also sees the return of plastic packaging for the first-price and ripe segments, following the cancellation of the Agec Law. While the figures have yet to be confirmed, Raphaël Martinez has no doubt that volumes will rise in line with the levels from 2 years ago. Last year, the producers' association confirmed that the introduction of cardboard trays had been one of the reasons for the difficult season.
Another key factor explaining this successful first half of the season is that "consumers are happy with the quality of the fruit. The recent rains will undoubtedly have some effect on the fruit, but we will soon get back to previous levels with the return of the good weather."
© AOP Pêches et Abricots de France
Promotional tools are also used in the stores, enabling consumers to obtain more information on the products, as part of the progress agreements signed with the Carrefour chains, Les Mousquetaires movement, and U Cooperative.
For more information:
Peaches and Apricots of France
pechesetabricotsdefrance.fr
