Blackberries are booming in the UK

Sales of blackberries are on the rise in the UK thanks to new improved varieties and growing awareness of the fruit's health benefits, driving the growth of the category. The British spent 51 million pounds in arrears last year, an 8% increase over the previous 12 months (editor's note: this turnover corresponds to about 50% of the Italian turnover of the entire soft fruit category) A key reason for this increase in popularity is the new blackberry varieties that have been developed in recent years. These new berries, along with advanced growing techniques, have combined to extend the blackberry season and ensure quality, making blackberries on supermarket shelves almost unrecognizable by their wild counterparts. Furthermore, there is a growing recognition of blackberries regarding their great health benefits. They are a rich source of vitamin C - an important antioxidant that protects cells from damage and strengthens the immune system. And the fruit is well known for keeping ...