Due to the geographical distance between the US and the UK, few Californian apples make it over the vast expanse of the Atlantic Ocean.
“Most of California’s apples are sold domestically and two of its main export markets are Canada and Mexico,” says Ott who replaced former executive director Kenton Kidd when he retired in April. “One of the main reasons is that these markets are close in proximity to California.”
“Clearly, it is much further to send to the UK and as a result, shipping costs are more expensive. This is not to say that California is not interested in the UK, and once once a way is found to lower costs and maintain a good return, California will increase its shipments.”
Californian growers begin packing apples in late July and the main varieties grown are Gala, Granny Smith, Fuji and Pink Lady. Although it is early days, the state anticipates a 10 per cent increase in the crop this year compared to 2004/05.
The California apple industry is relatively young, with commercial packing only really beginning in 1984, says Ott, adding that the CAC opened its doors in 1995.
California produced 10 million cartons 10 years ago and today that is down to 5m cartons. In addition, only 27,000 acres are devoted to apples in California ,compared to 40,000 in 1995.
According to Ott, the reasons for the lower volumes are varied, ranging from changing market demands, state regulations and housing development. Decisions to plant varieties that were unsuitable to the state’s climate also hurt production.
However, he believes that production has stabilised and as new markets open, volumes will increase. Pink Lady, in particular, is performing well in California and given the UK’s interest in this variety, shippers could strike gold.
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