The UK berry market has exceeded the £1 billion mark in terms of market value for what is believed to be the first time.
Figures released by Kantar Worldpanel today (22 October) showed that the fresh berry market - comprising the likes of strawberries, raspberries, blueberries and blackberries - grew by an impressive 31 per cent during the latest period (four weeks ending 11 October).
Mark Player, managing director of Total Worldfresh, a leading business in the British berry market,said: 'This growth has come from a combination of new customers, buying berries more often. This is exciting news, and is consistent with our own market research where customers demonstrate their excitement and expandability of this category.
'Indeed, through the forthcoming winter season, berries are set to become even more important in the overall fruit category. £1bn is a good milestone, but over the next few years there are many further exciting pathways to the continued accelerated growth in the berry market.'
Chairman of British Summer Fruits, Laurence Olins, added: “The sales figures released today reveal the steady rate of growth in the UK berry industry within recent years. Berries used to be a luxury item, but are now a staple as part of a healthy diet for many consumers.
“The robust and expanding soft-fruit category is meeting this growing consumer demand and continues to do so as we enter the winter season.”
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