The Summer Fruit Company | soft fruit specialist

Latest News

Strawberries

Lack of sunshine in early june supresses availability but changes ahead

Surge in demand

The British strawberry season continues to build throughout June, even though the early weather conditions gave an indication that the open tunnel crop would be delayed. For early June we estimated that the Elsanta and Sanato crop was running between seven to 14 days later than anticipated. This suggested that a June peak would be more concentrated. June started as a struggle to reach the volume levels required. This was compounded by the effects of heavy rain, which meant that growers had to be particularly vigilant in watching for outbreaks of botrytis. The good news is that there is plenty of fruit on the plants, and if the forecasters are correct, then sales and demand will increase.

Raspberries

Build up underway

A mix of English glasshouse fruit and initial pickings from tunnel production, which is now starting to build, has meant that in June the British crop increased its foothold on the market. Both Glen Ample and Tulameen are looking very promising and there will be unbroken continuity and excellent quality in the weeks ahead. Before the UK is able to be self sufficient, this will be supported by Tulameen from Spain and Holland.

Blackberries

UK already shows its worth

Early picking from English glasshouses are now being supported by tunnel grown fruit, which has meant that by mid July we will already have a National presence on the market. Volumes continue to build as July approaches, although June programmes continue to be supported by Dutch and Spanish fruit.

Blueberries

Seasonal support

June sees the Spanish crop coming to a close, with its place taken by French and Portuguese fruit. This continues to show promise. Availability will extend into July, when the baton will be passed to Poland. Latest reports from our growers indicate that there is an excellent crop ahead.

Red Currants

Fresh approach

We are moving towards the period when the last of the Dutch CA stored crop will be making way for fresh crop. Volumes available will be adequate to meet the needs of our specialist customers.

Rhubarb

Still going strong

Recent heavy rains have benefited outdoor English rhubarb production. We are well placed to meet demands for a crop that continues to retain its popularity throughout the summer months.