US watermelons target UK

US watermelon producers are targeting the UK and European markets for fresh sales for the first time.

Suppliers have only ever previously exported product for the juicing market, but the National Watermelon Promotion Board believes there is an opportunity to supply during the shoulders of the European season in spring and autumn.

The first sales of fresh US watermelon could hit European stores as early as the next two months, according to retail merchandiser for the organisation, Neil Gordon.