However, while grower support of the event has increased, the number engaged in commercial production has continued to shrink, confirmed Marden Fruit Show Society chairman Robert Mitchell.
He estimated only 500 growers are registered for levy purposes, but added this figure may have bottomed out. 'Those who remain are increasingly focused on the market, building strategic alignments and producing the new generation of varieties that can be grown profitably,' he said. He identified these as Braeburn, Cameo, Empire and even Pink Lady.
'It is the beginning of a major switch' agreed MFSS vice chairman Jeremy Scott, possibly as a result of climate change.
Although most growers have picked less volume this year they seem to be in a better mood, Mitchell added. 'Last year proved that even the best crop can be a financial disaster and this year crops all over the world are perhaps better matched to demand,' he said.
Meanwhile, Mitchell added that fears still exist over some alarming industry dynamics.
He said: 'We have had the proposal to merge the APRC and the HDC which, although it will not solve all our problems, will certainly provide focus and purpose for near market research.
'Rather more disturbing is the stark conclusion that the East Malling site must either close or become part of the East Malling Trust.
'As a trustee I can confirm we are working very hard to ensure a future for the East Malling site, but it will no doubt emerge as a rather different and hopefully more grower-focused organisation.
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