The blueberry confirms itself as a highly successful fruit, but other berries are also gaining ground, with the blackberry expected to see significant developments in the coming years. The Sant’Orsola Cooperative firmly believes in this and confirms its strategy of growth and innovation in the sector.
At the upcoming edition of Macfrut (a trade fair scheduled from May 6 to 8), Sant’Orsola will be alongside the Berry Area, a space specifically dedicated to berries, created by Ncx Drahorad in collaboration with Macfrut. “Although our participation in European trade fairs is strategic, 95% of our revenue is generated in the domestic market. The Rimini fair is an important event for the main Italian large-scale retail chains, and our presence in the Berry Area represents an opportunity to share industry challenges and explore new development opportunities,” said Nicola Leonardi, commercial manager at Sant'Orsola.
Blueberry success and raspberry challenges
The success of blueberries is now well established, with steady growth thanks to increasing production quality in both Italy and internationally. “The 125-gram package is no longer the standard: retail chains are offering larger packages, and consumers are willing to pay more for a high-quality product, keeping demand high even during peak pricing periods,” explained Leonardi.
Raspberries are also gaining market share, despite their high production costs. “We have accustomed consumers to a premium product, and despite high prices in 2024, demand has remained stable or slightly increased.” However, raspberries still pose challenges related to their handling and home storage. “In the coming years, varietal development will allow for easier management, reducing current difficulties,” added Matteo Bortolini, director of Sant’Orsola.
Stability and continuity for success
On one hand, quality is crucial, but on the other, continuity and consistency in supermarket shelf availability are essential. Consumer habits play a key role in the success of berries. “It doesn’t matter which berry we’re talking about—blueberry, raspberry, or blackberry,” Leonardi continued. “Assuming the product has a certain quality, it is crucial to ensure stable supply with these characteristics for at least three months a year. Without this guarantee, all supply dynamics collapse.”
Blackberry: a winning bet
The investment made in research in recent years is yielding results. Sant'Orsola is heavily investing in blackberries, considered the berry with the greatest growth potential. “Traditionally seen as the third reference among berries, the blackberry recorded a 20% increase last year, with full market absorption and positive economic feedback throughout the supply chain,” Leonardi told Italian Berry.
“The company has worked to optimize production between Northern and Southern Italy, ensuring a continuous and balanced supply. The increase in blackberry production mainly comes from the South, where we have structured a production system capable of preventing excesses and shortages,” added Bortolini.
The 'Residuo Zero' project
An additional milestone is the ‘Residuo Zero’ project, which from 2025 also includes blackberries. “After successful tests in 2024, we are launching Residuo Zero blackberries in April, alongside blueberries and raspberries, which already have this certification for most of the Italian production,” Leonardi told Italian Berry.
The Residuo Zero blueberry season runs from March to late September/mid-October, while Residuo Zero raspberries are available for 9-10 months a year. “We are now adding Residuo Zero blackberries from April to late June, currently in the South during spring, but we aim to expand Residuo Zero production in Northern Italy as well. Demand for Residuo Zero products is growing rapidly, and Sant'Orsola is investing in effective communication to highlight this differentiation.”
New crops and innovations
Among the latest developments, Sant’Orsola has started producing strawberries in Sicily, complementing its traditional cultivation areas in Trentino and Veneto. “After a test carried out last year, 2025 marks the debut of strawberries from our Sicilian growers, expanding our offerings and ensuring a longer growing season.”
Additionally, the company has inaugurated a new greenhouse in Campiello di Levico, the result of a collaboration with Wageningen University. This innovative facility enables an annual average temperature reduction of 3 degrees, a 14% water saving, and increased yields without compromising quality.
“In the coming years, we will see expansion nationwide among cooperative members. This is the result of three years of research, and it’s not just about steel and bolts. The €27 million Operational Plan 2025-2031 will further support these innovations,” concluded Bortolini.
Berry AreaThis article is part of a series dedicated to Berry Area in co-operation with Macfrut 2025. This content is in support of the event which will take place May 6-8, 2025 in Rimini Expo Centre, where the Berry Area stands as a reference point for all those seeking innovative solutions for the production and marketing of berries. 👉 Learn more about the Berry Area at this link. |
