For the last few years, the top fruit grower association, British Apples & Pears Limited (BAPL), has been running a dedicated export grower group to explore potential markets for premium, larger-size British apples.
Now, the BAPL board has approved seed funding investment for an inward trade mission from Vietnam. This trade visit by representatives from Vietnam is a key step in opening this new market to British-grown apples.
This exciting development follows a comprehensive export assessment carried out by the Department of Business and Trade (DBT), which identified Vietnam as offering the highest export potential for British apples. The DBT’s evaluation was provided at no cost to BAPL and reinforces the organisation’s efforts to find valuable outlets for apples that exceed UK supermarket size specifications.
“Larger apples are not always suitable for domestic specifications, but are ideal for international consumers,” said Ali Capper, executive chair of BAPL. “The export market we’re interested in is for premium, highly coloured, larger apples. It’s not just the size, but also the flavour, quality and environmental credentials of British-grown apples that give them strong overseas appeal.”
British apples are grown under some of the highest environmental and food safety standards in the world. Key factors that enhance their international appeal include:
- A unique maritime climate that allows apples to ripen more slowly, developing a unique and complex flavour profile.
- A low water footprint due to the UK’s mild maritime climate and ideal growing conditions that support sustainable farming.
- Widespread adherence to Red Tractor and the LEAF Marque standard, demonstrating environmentally responsible and sustainable production practices.
Importantly, opening new export markets will not impact the availability of apples for UK consumers. Domestic shoppers tend to prefer smaller apples, which remain the focus for UK supermarkets. The export initiative is aimed at finding a profitable home for premium apples that fall outside the UK’s typical size specifications, thereby improving the overall return on crop for British growers.
“This is about ensuring every apple grown finds its best market,” Ali Capper added. “By expanding internationally, we’re strengthening the entire industry and supporting the long-term future of British orchards.”