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June 2003, World Apple Report Highlights

Future of Washington Apples
The future of the Washington apple industry will never be the same after the sudden court decision that the promotional programs of the Washington Apple Commission (WAC) were unconstitutional because they contravened member growers' rights of free speech. New organizations will have to be framed and implemented to take over the critical functions once conducted by WAC. This article assesses the strengths and weaknesses of the WAC programs, analyzes what market changes undermined WAC and looks at potential strategies after WAC.

United Kingdom Market Puzzle
The United Kingdom has a long apple-eating tradition. It has enjoyed a decade of economic growth much faster than any other major country in Europe. Yet its domestic apple industry has been declining and its imports of apples static. This article shows that much of the decline has been due to the decreasing appeal of apples and the increasing attractiveness of other imported fruits for U.K. consumers. Revival of the apple industry will require a multicountry promotional effort.

Turmoil Among U.S. Grocers
Turmoil in the U.S. grocery industry is likely to continue as traditional supermarkets continue to feel the inroads supercenters, Walmart's neighborhood markets and dollar stores. The average number of yearly trips to supermarkets per household continues to fall, while shoppers increasingly use mass merchandisers and wholesale clubs more frequently. Struggling retailers give only mediocre ratings to their suppliers. This suggests that apple suppliers can gain a competitive advantage by keeping retailers happy.

Special Statistics
United Kingdom: Apple Industry Trends, 1991-2001 (chart).
United Kingdom: Import and Farm-gate Prices of Apples (chart).
United Kingdom: Fruit Imports, Calendar years, 1990-2002 (chart).
The Aging of World Markets, million people, 2000-2050 (table).
European Union: Trade in Fresh Apples, 1989-2001 (chart).

The authoritative guide to the world apple business today.

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