The value of close communication between market wholesalers and English fruit growers has never been greater, according to Ron Salter, managing director of the family firm based at Highland Court in Bridge.

He is facilitator for some 30 growers, who distribute through a network of 30 wholesalers across the UK.

“If markets get the right support and are not viewed simply as dumping grounds, they still perform well, because their customers in turn have confidence in the quality they can buy regularly,” Salter told FPJ. “It benefits the industry as a whole.

“The good news is that I believe there is now a move in this direction, despite the power of the supermarkets. Growers’ own brands are again becoming valued, sales are building, and in many cases returns have been higher.”

As the English apple and pear season gets underway, Salter adds that the quality of fruit looks good, and unofficial forecasts point towards a slightly smaller overall crop than last year.

“There appears to a higher incidence of russet on Cox, and Bramley size looks to vary across Kent,” he added.

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