Sales of fresh raspberries going up

Republic of Ireland sales of fresh raspberries have grown significantly from a small base with imports up by over 300% in value and volume terms between 2003 and 2006. While many soft fruits may not flourish in the cooler climate of the border region, raspberries are seen as potentially being suitable. At the Teagasc 2004 National Soft Fruit Conference, a buyer for one of the leading multiples in Ireland noted the limited organic production of berries and queried why this niche is not being exploited by Irish growers.