Figures released at the Prognosfruit conference earlier this month indicate the total German apple crop should reach 773,000tonnes, some 16 per cent down on last year's figure and 20 per cent below the five-year average.

However, Gala volumes continue to rise steadily and should total 30,000t this season, just a one per cent increase on last season and still 27 per cent above the five-year average. This is in line with expectations for a newer variety.

UK importer Empire World Trade is looking forward to the start of the season. 'Many of our growers have their crops under hail nets now,' explained EWT's David Pratt. 'Volumes will be lighter on most varieties except Royal Gala, however the fruit there is, is in good condition and Germany will be more competitive on Gala this year.' EWT expects to bring in its first arrivals of the variety from Germany in mid-September and will also be supplying Cox and Braeburn. 'We bring in Braeburn from Germany after Christmas and Gala next month,' said Pratt. 'The good keeping quality of Gala from Lake Constance means it tends to be kept longer than fruit from other European sources.'

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