"European high-bush blueberry acreage increased five-fold from 1995 to 2010, from 4,000 acres to nearly 21,000 acres. Poland, Germany and Spain lead the way in Europe, with 7,800 acres, 5,300 acres and 2,600 acres, respectively, in 2010. Total European production increased from an estimated 56 million pounds in 2008 to 81 million pounds in 2010", said Mark Villata, executive director of the U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council (USHBC).
"Given such growth, the blueberry industry needs to attract new consumers across the globe and significantly increase per capita consumption by 2015. There are opportunities to do so. Despite North America’s huge share in blueberry production, some of its markets remain underdeveloped. There continue to be excellent market prospects inn Europe, China, India and South Korea", says Villata.
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Blueberries continue to be a key ingredient in new fruit product development and their “health halo” continues to drive purchases. The key is to design and implement market promotions that leverage the blueberry’s healthful reputation. Villata who was speaking in Great Lakes Fruit, Vegetable and Farm Market EXPO in Grand Rapids, Mich., said he was optimistic about the long term prospects for blueberries.
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