Highlights include premium variety rollout in the US, climate-related yield challenges across Europe, and strategic moves to diversify blueberry export markets.
Varietal Expansion & New Offers
Florida increases acreage; introduces “pineberries”
Bova Fresh will expand by about 300 acres for 2025/26 and introduce ~15 acres of pineberries (“white strawberries”). Planting begins in late September; early fruit expected mid‑November. Strategy focuses on steady winter supply and spring promotions, supported by strong domestic demand.
Michigan: Koyo Berries debut in select stores
Oishii’s premium Koyo Berries—vertically farmed Japanese-style strawberries—launch in Michigan from September 4 in select retailers. Offered in trays of 6 XL to 20 small berries, priced $9.99–$11.99. Focus is on consistent quality, year-round availability, and premium positioning.
Climate & Production Impacts
Germany (Lüneburg Heath): blueberry harvest cut short by heat
Harvest ended three weeks early due to heavy rain followed by extreme heat up to 38 °C. Despite reduced yields, prices stayed above €4/kg. Direct sales and demand for loose berries helped buffer market impacts.
Switzerland: raspberry yields down 40–50%
Heat and adverse weather caused 40–50% yield losses in raspberries. Supply shortages and limited imports are driving price pressure up. In contrast, blackberries performed well with high quality and growing volumes.
Market Diversification & Export Strategy
Asia Fruit Logistica: Peru showcases berry strategy
At Asia Fruit Logistica 2025, Hortifrut and Naturipe will present their strategy to expand blueberry exports to Asia—aimed at strengthening presence in eastern markets and balancing global seasonality.
Blueberry Boost: US innovation in snacking
USHBC’s “Blueberry Boost” accelerator selected startups like Farmer Bob's Beyond Berries, creating upcycled blueberry-raspberry snacks. The program seeks to drive value beyond commodity via innovation and storytelling.
