Guatemalan berry producer Planesa is introducing a new super blackberry called Kiowa to replace the traditional Brazos under an agreement with the breeder, Kansas University.
Said to be larger and sweeter, it is expected to increase the export potential of a crop which is continuing to find more and more favour with UK supermarkets as part of the soft fruit range.
Its season lasts through the winter so is well placed to develop the niche market although it will compete with other sources such as Argentina, Mexico and Chile. UK imports are rising and have seen a year-on-year increase of 64% to £2.5m.