The Spanish berry producer is expanding production of the premium raspberry variety bred by Advanced Berry Breeding
Spanish berry producer Onubafruit has revealed that it is entering a new strategic phase with the expansion of Malaika, the premium raspberry variety bred by Advanced Berry Breeding (ABB).
Under a long-term agreement with ABB, Onubafruit has scaled its plantings ”at exceptional pace”, as it continues to position itself as a supplier of high-quality raspberries during the autumn–winter window.
ABB said that Malaika, known for its large fruit size, shiny light-red colour, shelf-life and balanced flavour, has quickly become one of its most in-demand premium genetics.
Following an initial technical trial phase in 2024 of under 10ha, Onubafruit expanded to approximately 40ha in 2025.
Plantings are planned to accelerate further, reaching 150-200 hectares in 2026, with continued growth expected in the years ahead.
”This commitment reflects both Onubafruit’s confidence in the variety and more importantly the rising demand from retailers for stable premium raspberry programmes,” ABB stated.
Onubafruit’s advanced technical expertise has enabled Malaika to express its full potential at commercial scale in Spanish climate conditions.
“Onubafruit has demonstrated strong technical understanding leading to a quick and sharp approach to producing Malaika at commercial scale,” said Hubert Gadret, CEO of Advanced Berry Breeding.
“Their investment reflects both the potential of the variety and the growing demand from retailers for dependable premium fruit during the winter season.
”We value the professionalism they bring to cultivating Malaika within their production system,” Gadret outlined.
“Malaika has proven to be an exceptional fit for our production strategy and for the quality expectations of our customers,” said Marco Vaz, Head of R,D&I at Onubafruit.
“Its reliability, fruit presentation and shelf-life performance – combined with an extraordinary cost-efficient production – make it an ideal variety for strengthening premium programmes during the autumn and winter months.
”We are proud to deepen our partnership with ABB and look forward to supplying retailers with the consistency and quality they expect from Onubafruit.”
ABB concluded that, as Onubafruit increases its plantings, Malaika is set to play a more prominent role in strengthening premium winter supply across Europe.
”With demand for consistent, high-quality raspberries rising, the variety continues to position itself as the premium and reliable choice for retailers and growers operating in this seasonal window,” it added.
