Apple prices surge 31% amid bad weather and rising costs
- Apple prices in the UK have increased by 31.1% over the past year, with Aldi's Bramley apples rising by 20.4%.
- Sales of British apples dropped from 148,041 tonnes to 123,802 tonnes due to adverse weather conditions affecting crop yields.
- The situation highlights the challenges faced by growers and retailers, emphasizing the need for better promotion of British apples.
Recent analysis reveals a significant increase in apple prices, with an overall rise of 31.1% compared to the previous year. This surge is attributed to rising input costs and adverse weather conditions affecting crop yields. Notably, Aldi's Nature Pick Loose Bramley apples experienced the highest price hike, increasing by 20.4% in just one year. Other retailers also reported substantial price increases, with Waitrose's Pink Lady apples rising by 29.2% and Asda's Crisp and Juicy Apples up by 25%. The decline in sales of British apples, from 148,041 tonnes to 123,802 tonnes, is linked to a reduced supply caused by weather-related issues. Despite this, Tesco emerged as the leading seller of UK apples in the 2023-2024 season, narrowly surpassing Aldi, which had topped the sales chart the previous year. Aldi has emphasized its commitment to sourcing British apples whenever possible, aiming to provide customers with the best value. The British Apples & Pears organization expressed optimism for the current crop, hoping that supermarkets will promote British apples and pears more vigorously this year. The increase in apple prices and the decline in sales highlight the challenges faced by growers and retailers in the UK, as they navigate the impacts of climate and economic factors on the fruit market.