New Zealand apples

New Zealand-based topfruit consortium T Seventeen has acquired exclusive marketing rights to a new apple bred by HortResearch, known by its development label as premA17.

The group, which is made up of nine companies including Enza Ltd and D M Palmer, will market the variety both domestically and internationally after acquiring the rights from commercial development company Prevar, the Otago Daily Times reported.

PremA17 is an early maturing red bicolour apple, which will appeal to consumers because of its refreshing and juicy texture and crunchiness, according to T Seventeen chairman John McCliskie.

'The apple also has superb storage and shelf-life, easy retaining its quality and is a robust, grower-friendly selection,' he added.

A trademarked brand name will be disclosed closer to the apple's launch, Mr McCliskie said, with the fruit expected to hit shelves both in New Zealand and overseas in 2-3 years time.

T Seventeen consists of D M Palmer XZ Ltd, Enza Ltd, FreshCo Ltd, Freshmax NZ Ltd, Fresh New Zealand Ltd, Heartland Group Ltd, Jonny Appleseed Holdings Ltd, Mr Apple New Zealand Ltd and PickMee Fruit Company Ltd.