Premium volumes surge as growers overcome challenges and expand plantings, with over 80 per cent of orchards now at maturity
Growers in South Africa say they expect a larger crop of BigBucks Gala apples – sold under the Flash Gala brand – after achieving another record season and overcoming many of the challenges that once hampered the variety.
According to export marketer Tru-Cape, production increased to around 2.2mn cartons in 2025, from approximately 1.9mn cartons a year earlier, driven by orchard expansion and improved performance.
Of this volume, 68 per cent met Flash Gala’s premium specifications, a 53 per cent increase year on year, and a sign that problems with uneven ripening and quality inconsistencies seen in the past have indeed been overcome.
At the same time, volumes of standard BigBucks Gala declined by half, the group noted, reflecting a “decisive shift towards higher-quality fruit”.
BigBucks Gala plantings are now reckoned to cover more than 1,300ha, and an estimated 81 per cent of those orchards have now reached maturity.
“The 2025 season was the first in which the industry received consistently positive feedback across all major markets,” says Calla du Toit, procurement director at Tru-Cape and chair of the BigBucks Growers Association.
“With strong foundations now in place, Flash Gala is well positioned to deliver improved returns to growers while reinforcing its reputation as a premium apple offering in both local and export markets.”
