Markets news from Fresh Produce Journal
Essential stories, analysis and research from UK’s fresh produce markets, with a focus on retail, wholesale, marketing, and consumers.
Licensed apples are ‘priority’ as Vip enjoys club classics
As Cosmic Crisp becomes Europe’s first year-round apple, South Tyrolean association says club varieties are at centre of its commercial plan
Food redistribution rates drop slightly
Food redistribution is increasing as demand continues to grow, with storage facilities and untapped surplus from farms identified as areas of potential growth, according to new Wrap figures
BerryWorld signs up padel’s world number one
Supplier announces Delfi Brea as company’s brand ambassador for 2026, part of a strategy to connect with health-conscious consumers
Monaghan uses dull weather to push Vit-D mushrooms
Monaghan is promoting its UV-enhanced mushrooms to sun-starved Scots after weeks of dull weather as it celebrates 25 years of supply into Asda
Produce prices ‘will rise’ due to Middle East conflict
Wholesalers are reporting shortages of Israeli produce and warn ‘extreme costs’ will be passed on, as inflation is expected to hit homegrown salad veg and retail food prices within six weeks
Labour MP calls for debate on farmer co-ops
A ’co-op shaped food system’ can help keep costs down and strengthen food security, according to Labour MP calling for new debate on how to expand agricultural co-ops in the UK
Brakes takes its chefs and sister companies on the road
Fresh Direct and Country Choice will join parent company Brakes and a raft of development chefs at a series of ‘food expos’ this summer as the foodservice giant takes to the road
Berry business faces up to new challenges as growth continues
Investment in varieties, segmentation, marketing and technology will help build more profitable berry business, delegates heard at Fruitnet Berry Congress
Middle East conflict impacts airfreight options for fresh produce
Some flights have been able to reach Middle Eastern markets to supply fruit and vegetables, but global capacity has dropped as prices rise
Martin Emmett re-elected as NFU Hort chair
Three key re-appointments to the NFU’s Horticulture and Potatoes Board have been confirmed after voting today
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BerryWorld launches health-focused campaign for berry category
Leading berry supplier BerryWorld is launching a major health-focused campaign to educate consumers about the nutritional benefits of berries. The initiative, previewed at Fruit Logistica and supported by new consumer research, targets key wellness trends including immunity, gut health and weight management throughout 2026
French stonefruit suppliers face steep challenges
Apricot growers in France are struggling to make a profit, according to Serge Mouneyrac of Mouneyrac Frères, while cherry production requires substantial investments to protect the crop
Little Joya launches nationwide in Tesco with limited-edition Peppa Pig packs
Activation features collectible co-branded packs and is supported by fully integrated marketing campaign aimed at parents with children
AVA Dalicia strawberries to launch in UK by end of year
Scottish berry breeder hoping for high demand when Mediterranean variety opens for UK sales in 2026/27 following strong performance this season
NCP to appeal High Court judgment on Nadorcott
Group to fight on after court ruled Asda had not infringed plant breeders’ rights with sale of Tang Gold mandarins
High court decision on mandarins could have wider implications
UK judge’s decision to dismiss Nador Cott Protection’s case could mean retailers continue to sell Tang Gold variety
‘Resilience is about more than just multiple origins’
Wealmoor CEO Avnish Malde tells Fred Searle about the grower-importer’s rich history, his journey into fresh produce, and why supply resilience is in the firm’s DNA
Designing the future of strawberries
Dyson Farming’s Steve Barker shows Nina Pullman round the company’s cutting-edge glasshouse complete with robotic pickers and a vertical, rotating growing system
S&A Produce kicks off new season British strawberries
The British strawberry season is underway with the first pick at Kent supplier S&A Produce, alongside growing advances in winter season British berry supply
Lidl aims to cut food waste by 70 per cent
Individuals will be able to help redistribute food surplus from Lidl stores as the discounter announces it is accelerating food waste reduction plan