By Trudy Kelly Forsythe
It appears that demand for Prince Edward Island apples is outpacing the supply.
Barry Balsom of Arlington Orchards says that's been the case at his orchard. Apple harvest began on Balsom's orchard in mid-August and saw such a huge demand for yellow transparent and August apples that they sold out in about a week.
Other orchards have temporarily closed their u-pick orchards due to sell-outs of some early varieties, planning to reopen once later varieties are ready for picking.
Balsom believes the increased demand is because of a shortage last year -- particularly of many favourite late season apples, which were out of stock before this year's crop was ready.
"Indeed, here in Summerside, only the offer of greenish gala was available for a few weeks," Balsom says.
An increased demand could also be due to more educated consumers.
"We have been providing information to our customers on cooking and different flavours of early season apples, so many now look for their particular favourite and are no longer restricted by what the major chains offer and at what ripeness," Balsom says.
"In short, variety and flavour is what our customers are looking for, and we are now seeing this as a growing trend in the marketplace. With a mixed offering of heritage, rare and new varieties, apples are more fun and exciting. People want choice."
Another trend is a focus by families to eat healthier, "and, apples are a part of that," Balsom says.
After seeing a price increase last year, Balsom adds that prices remain good. This is good news, since the cost of growing and labour has increased as well.
Source: FCC