The blueberry market is currently led by Peru in this period of supply of red fruits to the United Kingdom. However, due to poor weather conditions in Peru during the cultivation and harvest period, exports have decreased by between 40-60%. This fact has allowed South Africa to strengthen its presence in the sector.

“South Africa is currently filling the blueberry supply gap,” says Ben Goodchild of Nationwide Produce. "The price of South African fruit is on par with that from Peru, since the supply is scarce and there is demand."

Ben says that if South Africa can sort out the port situation, seaborne South African blueberries will be a viable option for British buyers.

"The big question is whether Peru will be the dominant force again next season, or whether countries like South Africa will hold on to this momentum and maintain the customer base that came to them in desperate need of help when there were no other options available."

The two countries differ in terms of varieties, Peru has well established varieties and plants while South Africa is new to the market with newer varieties of great flavor.

Higher prices don't seem to affect demand, according to Ben. «The demand for berries tends to fall in the first ten days of December, when buyers think about Christmas expenses. “On the other hand, wholesale demand remains good with the Christmas holidays, functions and increased footfall at independent supermarkets and farm shops.”