South Africa's deciduous fruit marketing and distribution company Tru-Cape reports that the 2025 harvest season delivered a record 1.48 million cartons of Flash Gala apples, representing a 41% increase compared to last season and the largest crop since the brand's commercial introduction.
"This is the biggest Flash Gala crop ever. The increase is owing to orchards reaching maturity, exceptional harvests in key production areas, and the absence of adverse weather conditions," said Tru-Cape Fruit Marketing procurement manager and BigBucks Growers' Association chairperson Calla du Toit. Flash Gala apples are the trademarked brand of the growers' association BigBucks Gala.
© Tru-Cape
Kromco technical manager Angelique Pretorius noted: "We saw a dramatic improvement in the eating quality of Flash Gala this year, largely because the trees are maturing. When the trees were young, they were overly vigorous, especially when planted on strong rootstocks. This resulted in quality issues, which were not unique to BigBucks. Now that canopies have settled and we are shifting from vegetative to reproductive growth, it means better and more consistent fruit quality."
The season also highlighted orchard discipline. "Growers have learned to harvest closer to optimal maturity, even though the high colour can make it tempting to pick too early," said Du Toit. Expansion is expected. "We expect a second wave of plantings within two to three years, especially in regions where growers have had strong results. The solid returns and consistent market demand make BigBucks an attractive variety for growers."
Exports were directed to India, China, Malaysia, Vietnam, Singapore, and the Middle East, while Africa also remained an active market, with demand from Nigeria, Ghana, and Cameroon. Tru-Cape export manager for Africa, DG Malherbe, reported that African buyers valued the variety's shelf life and taste.
Fruit and vegetable producer Dutoit Agri's marketing manager, Louis du Toit, confirmed overseas performance. "Our clients were impressed with the fruit, and it sold exceptionally well. Overall, it was an above-average season. However, we must diversify our markets, and there's potential in the Middle East, Bangladesh, and the Far East. We also need to focus on improving storability to extend our sales window."
According to Calla du Toit, profitability has improved year-on-year. "BigBucks deserves to be valued as a variety. It is a Gala that colours well and is easy to farm. By focusing on the facts and the science, we can ensure we continue to improve quality and capitalise on its full potential."
Source: Engineering News
