French apples are core to the UK market

French apples are driving sales growth in the UK apple category and Le Crunch, the 'umbrella' brand for the French apples industry, is hoping to boost the market even further with the launch of its 2007 marketing campaign this month (September).Mintel statistics reveal sales of apples have remained fairly flat since 2004, seeing only 0.8% value growth, but French apple sales have grown by 3% during the same period (Mintel Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Report, January 2007).French apples, including the Golden Delicious, Gala, Granny Smith and Braeburn varietals, account for 34% of all apples imported into the UK (source: Comtext and Prognosfruit) and overall crop forecasts are reported to be up this year. Other smaller volume varieties such as Pink Lady and Tentation are also performing promisingly and are expected to see double-digit growth of almost 12% and 10.5% respectively.The Le Crunch campaign will run from September to April in the major multiples, with tailored support and in-store tasting. In-school activities are also being organised to target children and parents. In addition, Le Crunch will be helping suppliers, buyers and importers stay up-to-date with the latest news from French growers through a series of newsletters containing information on crops, trends and profiles of French producers.
Source: talkingretail.com