The raspberry variety Zawadi® (ABB136), developed by Advanced Berry Breeding (ABB), is undergoing significant expansion across Southern Europe, with growers in Morocco, Spain, and Portugal increasing production to meet rising demand from European retailers. In the first year of commercialization, Morocco and Spain have each planted over 70 hectares of Zawadi, marking one of the more notable developments in soft fruit cultivation this season.
The expansion is linked to increased interest from retailers, particularly in the United Kingdom, where ABB's partners WB Chambers Farms and Angus Soft Fruits have been active in introducing the variety to the market. Through trials and engagement with UK retailers, the companies helped establish familiarity with the variety and its performance, contributing to the current demand being seen across the broader European market.
Tim Chambers, Managing Director at WB Chambers Farms, stated that the variety is gaining traction in the UK as part of efforts to improve winter raspberry supply through production in regions such as Morocco and Iberia. Johnnie McMillan, Head of International Farming at Angus Soft Fruits, added that the retail sector is increasingly focused on securing a consistent supply during periods of lower domestic production. Benchmarking results this winter have reportedly been positive, contributing to increased interest across multiple countries.
The 140+ hectares now planted in Morocco and Spain reflect both market demand and grower interest in the variety's agronomic characteristics. According to ABB, Zawadi has demonstrated adaptability to Mediterranean climates, low input requirements, and strong disease resistance. These traits have been cited by growers as beneficial for managing production costs and supporting environmental targets, particularly around water and fertilizer use.
In Portugal, growers are similarly trialing Zawadi as part of broader efforts to manage seasonal supply gaps. According to ABB CEO Hubert Gadret, the variety has been developed to meet both agronomic needs in the field and market requirements for supply consistency during early-season months.
While the commercial trajectory of Zawadi is still developing, its current uptake suggests it may play a role in shaping raspberry supply dynamics during the winter period across key production regions. Growers cite both production and market stability as motivating factors in adopting the variety.
As the 2025 planting season begins, Zawadi's growing footprint across Southern Europe reflects ongoing adjustments within the soft fruit sector in response to changing retailer expectations and environmental constraints. The variety's performance will continue to be evaluated as it expands into more farms and markets.
For more information:
Advanced Berry Breeding
Tel: +31 611 263 448
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www.abbreeding.nl