Over the last two weeks, the berries sector has been shaped by contrasting dynamics: on one side, growing investment in new varieties, premium packaging and branded programs; on the other, increasing concern over production costs, logistics and climate volatility. Internationally, Peru and Poland continue to strengthen their role in blueberry and raspberry supply, while European retailers and producers focus more intensely on quality, shelf life and visual differentiation to support consumption growth.
Production and markets
Peru: expanded blueberry programs targeting Europe and North America
Vanguard International is accelerating its Peruvian blueberry operations through a new integrated program designed to supply fruit from June through December, with plans to further extend the commercial window. The company is targeting distribution across the United States, Europe, the Middle East and Asia, leveraging premium varieties and vertically integrated management. The strategy highlights Peru’s growing importance as a global platform for high-quality blueberries with extended shelf life.
Source: HortiDaily — Publication date: 13 May 2026
Poland: investment in raspberries and blackberries boosts production plans
BigRed berry farm, led by Oleh Naumenko, expects significant growth in raspberry and blackberry production following investments in new plantings and long cane varieties. The company forecasts around 500 tons of raspberries and 140 tons of blackberries in 2026, with additional expansion already planned for 2027. The project underlines Eastern Europe’s increasing strategic importance as a supply base for berries destined for European retail programs.
Source: GroentenNieuws — Publication date: 02 May 2026
California: premium raspberry supply rises from Watsonville
Gem Pack Berries reports increasing raspberry availability from Watsonville, California, driven by the Majestic variety, valued for sweetness, firmness and shipping performance. According to Trent Etchandy, the market continues to prioritize fruit with superior shelf life and eating quality, while labor and logistics costs remain major profitability challenges for growers. The company sees strong retail demand for consistent premium programs during the summer season.
Source: FreshPlaza — Publication date: 12 May 2026
Retail, consumption and branding
France: blueberries focus on visibility and consumer expansion
The Association des Producteurs de Myrtilles de France (APMF) is positioning the 2026 season around varietal innovation, new formats and stronger shelf visibility. With plantations approaching 600 hectares, the French blueberry industry aims to reinforce the category as an impulse purchase within retail. Newly appointed president Côme Lapierre stresses that packaging and merchandising have become essential tools for stimulating berry consumption and attracting new consumers.
Source: FreshPlaza — Publication date: 07 May 2026
Italy: “Un’estate da Copertina” campaign promotes berries through storytelling
I Frutti di Gil, part of Gruppo Orsero, has launched the summer limited edition “Un’estate da Copertina”, developed together with branding agency KAERU and illustrator Alessandra “Allissand” Bruni. Inspired by the atmosphere of the 1970s Riviera romagnola, the campaign transforms blueberries, currants and raspberries into visual lifestyle icons. The initiative confirms the growing importance of storytelling and emotional branding in the premium positioning of berries.
Source: Italiafruit News — Publication date: 03 May 2026
France: local raspberries seek space in an import-driven market
According to Strawberries Raspberries of France, the French raspberry market remains heavily dependent on imports, which account for around 85% of total consumption. The 2026 campaign is starting with limited volumes but encouraging quality, while supply issues affecting some Moroccan shipments and high prices from Portugal are opening opportunities for domestic fruit. The sector’s long-term objective is to build a stronger and more recognizable French raspberry industry.
Source: FreshPlaza — Publication date: 14 May 2026
Costs, climate and sustainability
United Kingdom: energy and input costs continue to pressure berry growers
UK growers represented by British Berry Growers are reporting strong increases in fertilizer, energy, packaging and transport costs. Producers using greenhouses and protected cultivation systems are particularly affected by higher electricity and natural gas expenses, impacting the profitability of strawberries, blueberries, raspberries and blackberries. Industry representatives warn that structurally higher production costs may reduce future investment and weaken competitiveness against overseas suppliers.
Source: HortiDaily — Publication date: 01 May 2026
El Niño raises concerns for South American blueberry exports
The potential intensification of El Niño is raising concerns among blueberry operators in Peru and Chile, especially regarding quality, drainage and phytosanitary pressure. Industry experts warn that heavy rainfall and climate instability could negatively affect fruit shelf life and export performance. As a result, producers are increasingly focusing on drainage systems, agronomic monitoring and more resilient logistics protocols to protect fruit quality and commercial returns.
Source: HortiDaily — Publication date: 14 May 2026
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