2024 was a great season for New Zealand apples, Kurt Livingston, Export Sales Executive at Fern Ridge Fresh, said that most varieties performed well in all markets.
"Quality was great in 2024 and after two growing seasons of poor weather, it was nice to have a 'normal season'. The apples performed well in all of the markets which generated positive returns for growers."
Fern Ridge Fresh had sold out of apples by August 2024."China was the strongest for New Zealand apples, particularly Royal Gala and NZ Queen. Other Asian countries performed well, but there was certainly pressure due to increased supply from USA and South Africa."
KORU® rebrand
Fern Ridge Fresh did a rebrand of the Koru apple in 2024 and according to Kurt the reaction in the markets was very positive. "The new branding coupled with increased promotional activity was particularly effective in Vietnam, where KORU® performs strongly.
2025 apple crop
"This season's crop is looking great in New Zealand. It is looking clean, and the fruit is sizing well early. We have had warm spring and summer weather to date, with recent timely rain. We are excited to start the new season! There have been no weather events, just a warm settled spring, and a great start to summer. We are expecting the harvest to be slightly early, particularly out of the Gisborne and Hawkes Bay regions.
"As for the markets, it is still early days, but we are expecting the Asian markets to be strong for New Zealand apples this season. Delivering great quality is our focus in New Zealand, and the markets always reward that.
For more information:
Kurt Livingston
Fern Ridge Fresh
Tel: +64 6 651 2646
[email protected]
www.fernridgefresh.nz