Ukrainian apples appeared on the shelves of ASDA - one of the UK's leading retail chains. Negotiations on supplies began two years ago, Info-Shuvar informs..

"All this time we studied the features of the UK market for deliveries of melons, melons, pumpkins. Not all these supplies were successful, it was on the mistakes that we learned, there is no other way, unfortunately, "said Maxim Kulik, Export Consultant of Vinigretta LLC.

The preparation of the first export batch took 2 months, because the buyer had very specific requirements. In addition to the Global Gap certificate, it was necessary to fulfill all the requirements prescribed in the product specification: the caliber of 65+ fruit with a deviation of not more than 5 mm, a color of at least 50%, a marriage and defect tolerance of not more than 5%.

The supplier also specified rather strict requirements in the specifications for the container: the apple was loaded into new wooden or plastic containers, in which certificates of safety confirmation.

Before getting on ASDA shelves, Ukrainian apples were repacked once again into polypropylene bags of 6 pieces.

The main challenge was a test for the presence of pesticides in an independent laboratory in the UK, and Ukrainian apples were completely safe, and in quality even better than Polish ones.

At this time, the buyer chose the grade Royal Gala, and it was not a surprise, because this is one of the most favorite varieties of UK residents.

Good prospects also for grades Golden Delicious and Granny Smith.

"We do not focus on increasing supplies, because, firstly, we still do not have a lot of apple that meets the requirements of European buyers, and secondly, all the operational processes require careful revision. For example, this time the repacking of Ukrainian apples took place at the buyer's warehouse, and we would like to do the same directly on the loading place, this would significantly increase the added value of the products, "says Maxim Kulik.