The UK cherry harvest had been expected to start early this year but low temperatures in early June have meant that the harvest will be pretty much be in line with a normal season.
"We are starting to pick this week at our farm in Kent," said Boris Manz, Commercial and Procurement Manager at Fruit Growers Alianza, the UK import company for San Clemente, Purafruit & Gesex. "We are starting the harvest with our early varieties and focusing on sizes 30-32mm. The fruit is looking very good and we will start moving these first volumes in niche local markets."
After a very challenging season 2023, Boris is starting the season very optimistic. Milush Petrov, FGA's farm Manager is expecting a normal crop, albeit a later start than first thought.
"Our volumes this year are coming as per our forecast and the fruit is looking promising. As a strategy, we have been managing the farm to produce good quality, large cherries. In fact, this year we are planning to export 20% of our production to Europe, Far East, Middle East, and others. For our local and export customers we will be offering our Buddy's and Tudor labels, and this year we will be introducing our premium San Clemente Brand, which will be in the market with our first Kordias."
"In general, Europe is looking short this year, it changes from origin to origin in terms of supply and quality. We are seeing a lot of interest from our customers to start the UK cherry season as soon as possible, and I'm sure that the final customers will enjoy the experience and flavour of our cherries. Starting next week, we will be sourcing 100% UK cherries. Our main varieties are Regina, Kordia, Lapins, and we are testing different varieties to be able to supply British cherries for 100 days a year to our customers here and around the world."
For more information:
Boris Manz
Fruit Growers Alianza
[email protected]