Country’s Conference pears are becoming increasingly popular in the UK
Belgium is set to lead European pear production in 2025/26 according to the World Apple & Pear Association. With a forecast of 355,547 tonnes – an increase of 32.17 per cent compared to last year – the country is consolidating itself as Europe’s main pear-growing region.
In 2025, the Conference variety accounted for nearly half of all pears produced in the EU, with Belgium representing 37 per cent of total output.
“Belgium’s maritime climate with mild winters, moderate summers and regular rainfall, helps reduce the risk of frost and drought, allowing the production of healthy, top-quality produce. At the same time, packing and storage facilities are closely integrated, resulting in a highly efficient supply chain that benefits local and international markets,” said Nele Van Avermaet, marketing manager for Fruit and Vegetables at VLAM.
According to IndexBox’s latest UK Market Overview Report, in 2024 Britons consumed around 110,000 tonnes of pears, of which only 10 per cent were grown in the UK. Adverse weather conditions, rising production costs, and ageing orchards were, according to agri-experts, the main reasons behind the decline in domestic output. This gap between local supply and consumer demand has opened the door to greater imports from neighbouring countries, including 32,604 tonnes from Belgium alone.
“Due to their proximity, sustainability and reliable supply, Belgian Conference pears are a great choice for British retailers and shoppers alike,” said Van Avermaet. “Conference pears also offer exceptional versatility and can be enjoyed at various stages of ripeness: crunchy for a refreshing snack or soft and honey-sweet when fully ripe. That’s why they’re a staple food in many British households and we expect them to become even more popular in the near future.”
Despite the increase in UK imports of European pears, overall consumption has remained relatively stable over the last decade, at around 1.6kg per capita. “Pears in Britain are mainly consumed by adults aged 40 and older. As in other European countries, engaging new generations remains a challenge,” Van Avermaet noted.
“However, we believe there is a real opportunity to boost sales of Belgian Conference pears amongst younger shoppers by highlighting them as a convenient, on-the-go snack, and also as an ingredient for sandwiches, breakfast bowls, desserts, and more.”
