The new British apple and pear season will begin in September 2025, and UK growers report that a dry growing season has not harmed fruit development. Instead, they believe the 2025 crop could offer the best quality and flavour in many years.
Young apples and pears are currently growing and ripening slowly in orchards across the country. Growers have reviewed their crops and predict that apple volumes will be generally good. While yields may vary between orchards, the overall crop is expected to be slightly higher than in 2024.
© British Apples & Pears
Growers say the 2025 apples have an excellent skin finish, with much less russet compared to last year, and recent warm, sunny weather is contributing to a sweeter flavour profile. Despite the lack of rainfall, most orchard trees are holding up well in the dry conditions. However, some orchards have experienced hail damage to fruit, which is a concern this late in the season. Growers remain hopeful that favourable weather will continue to protect the developing crop.
Ali Capper, executive chair of British Apples & Pears Limited (BAPL), said: "For once, the Spring weather has been quite kind to growers. The fruit is looking stunning, and we're very hopeful that 2025 will be a great British apple and pear year. However, there is still time for the weather to affect the size of the fruit. Substantial rainfall will likely increase the size, while dry conditions will likely mean smaller fruit. What we do know is that whatever the size, the skin finish and sweet flavour profile will be very appealing to consumers."
As in recent years, BAPL members will work closely with retailers from October 2025 to promote British top fruit in-store. TV advertising and social media promotion have been used successfully in the past to raise the profile of the new season's apples, and it is hoped that this year will see an even greater celebration. BAPL also plans to invest heavily in social media advertising at the start of the season to highlight the health benefits of British apples and encourage shoppers to choose British apples and pears.
For more information:
British Apples & Pears
Tel: +44 (0) 1507 353778
Email: [email protected]
www.britishapplesandpears.co.uk
