Intermarché introduces smaller apple packs

Intermarché and the Association nationale pommes poires (ANPP) announced in early October a new product line featuring 1.5 kg bags of French Golden and Gala apples of smaller size, priced at 3.29 euros. The initiative, set to launch in November, aims to address the reduced size of apples caused by summer heatwaves.

Partnership details and scale

The initiative, a collaboration with the ANPP, is expected to involve 1,000 tonnes of apples produced by around 500 French orchardists over the next few months. Seven partners, including Blue Whale and Gerfruit, are involved in the project, which also includes a marketing campaign titled "Small size, Strong support."

Broader initiative by Intermarché and Netto

This product line is the first part of a larger initiative announced by Intermarché and Netto in late summer. Additional products may be added depending on harvests and sector needs, as outlined in a statement from August 31. The ANPP hopes the initiative will help revalue all apple and pear products and expand to more stores.

ANPP criticizes lack of action

The ANPP expressed disappointment in a statement from October 2 that other retailers have made promises without following through. The association warned that without swift support from grocery stores, some orchardists could face bankruptcy or be forced to remove their orchards.

Price increases and grading challenges

Apple producers are calling for a 0.35 euro per kilogram increase in purchase prices, but the actual increase observed since early September has been only 0.12 euro per kilogram. While grading standards have been adjusted to accept smaller apples, some grading processes remain overly strict. For pears, progress is expected as some stores rely heavily on imported products, despite sufficient French harvests.