Pink-Lady-Apples

Source: Pink Lady

The southern hemisphere season has seen the biggest increase in volume ever sold by British retailers

Pink Lady has reported a record year of sales, helped by increased support from growers, licensees and retail partners.

Helped by a bumper southern hemsphere growing season, British value sales increased by 8.7% last year, while volumes climbed by 14.2% – marking the apple’s biggest increase in volume ever sold by UK retailers.

Retailers have offered a much broader range of produce to consumers and partners have increased the amount of Pink Lady branded packaging in-store, creating greater visibility and recognition among shoppers, the brand said.

“Once again, our retailer partners have driven an extremely successful season for Pink Lady UK,” said Julie Criddle, head of commercial at Pink Lady licensor and marketer Twenty Degrees. “They have really invested in the power of branding, taking on more branded packing to increase visibility and drive volume.”

Sainsbury’s had played a particularly significant role in this growth, according to Pink Lady, as the retailer had a dramatic increase in market share value in the 12 weeks leading up to 3 November 2024.

“The record-breaking results are testament to the dedication of retailers like Sainsbury’s, who continue to champion the qualities that Pink Lady has become renowned for,” Criddle added. “With the northern hemisphere season looking just as promising, we are excited to continue our journey with these valued partners.”

Pink Lady has a 22% market share, second only to Royal Gala.

The brand has also now established commercial orchards in the UK, France, Spain, Italy and in the southern hemisphere to maintain year-round production.

This goes against the performance of the wider apple category which saw volumes decline by 0.6% last year and pries rise by 7.7%, according to The Grocer’s Top Products data.