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Gooseberry (Ribes uva-crispa), a shrub native to the Caucasus and northern Ukraine, is a popular choice for its tangy berries, which have multiple culinary uses and nutritional benefits. In France, this crop is experiencing renewed interest thanks to diversification opportunities, growing production, and sustainability-focused innovations, despite challenges related to international competition and the organic market.

Presentation and commercial uses

Gooseberry (Ribes uva-crispa) is a thorny shrub native to the Caucasus and northern Ukraine, growing between 50 cm and 1.5 metres in height . Its fruits, called gooseberries, are oval berries 1.5 cm in diameter, which can be white, red, yellow or green depending on the variety . These fruits are distinguished by their thick, slightly fuzzy skin and juicy, tangy flesh .

In France, gooseberries are experiencing a renewed interest, particularly in contemporary cuisine where their acidity is sought after . Their main commercial uses include fresh consumption, processing into jams, and use as an accompaniment to meat or fish dishes . Additionally, these berries are valued for their nutritional benefits, being rich in vitamins C, A and B, as well as minerals such as calcium and potassium . Their low sugar content and diuretic and digestive properties also make them a product of choice for health-conscious consumers .

Evolution of the French market

The French gooseberry market has seen mixed trends in recent years. For the conventional market, production increased from 80,512 metric tons in 2019 to 90,904.3 metric tons in 2021 . This growth reflects increased demand, both domestically and for export. However, the organic sector has faced challenges. In 2023, the organic vegetable sector suffered a 6% decline in its agricultural area . This decline is part of a broader trend in the French organic market, which has seen its share in consumers' shopping baskets decrease slightly, from 6% in 2022 to 5.6% in 2023, mainly due to inflation .

Key points:

• Increase in conventional gooseberry production
• Decline in organic vegetable farming areas
• Slight drop in the share of organic products in consumption
• Inflation impacting organic products less (+8%) than conventional products (+12%)
• Growth in direct sales (+9% in 2023), reaching 14% of the organic market

Current market status

The French gooseberry market is currently experiencing moderate growth, reflecting trends in the European market, which dominates global production with a 90% market share. In 2024, the French conventional market represents around 10% of European production, or approximately 9,000 metric tonnes . Cultivated areas are estimated at around 500 hectares, mainly in the North-East and Central regions of France.

For the organic market, despite a slight general decline in the organic sector in France, demand for organic gooseberries remains stable. The area cultivated organically is estimated at around 50 hectares, producing nearly 450 tonnes per year . There is a growing trend towards product diversification, with an increase in demand for specific varieties such as Crispa varianta, suitable for organic cultivation . Organic producers are banking on the quality and health benefits of gooseberries to maintain consumer interest, despite current economic challenges .

Favorable regions and terroirs

The main gooseberry-producing regions in France are the Northeast (Grand Est, Hauts-de-France) and the Centre-Val de Loire. These regions benefit from favorable climatic conditions with cool, humid summers and harsh winters, ideal for growing this shrub .

Gooseberry thrives particularly in semi-mountainous areas and appreciates heavy, clayey soils . Producing regions generally offer:

• A temperate climate with good summer rainfall
• Deep, fresh soils rich in organic matter
• A sunny or partially shaded location, protected from strong winds
• Low winter temperatures, promoting plant dormancy

These specific conditions explain the concentration of production in these regions, where market gardeners can optimize their yields while benefiting from a terroir conducive to the quality of the fruit .

Varieties and cultivation techniques

The main gooseberry varieties grown in France include ' Germania ' (early red fruits), ' Varianta ' (tart golden fruits), and ' Freedonia ' (thornless, burgundy-red fruits) . These shrubs thrive in moist, rich, well-drained soil, preferring clay loam . They tolerate partial shade but produce best in full sun with good air circulation .

The recommended planting density is approximately 1.20 m between plants . Irrigation is crucial, especially during times of drought . Average yields vary between 2 and 3 kg per plant in conventional farming, while in organic farming they are slightly lower. Gooseberry bushes come into production in the second year and remain productive for 8 to 10 years . To optimize cultivation, it is advisable to add compost in the spring and crushed horn in the fall.

Trade and international competition

France occupies a modest position in the international gooseberry market, with production primarily intended for domestic consumption. Europe dominates the global market, accounting for 90% of total production, with Russia, Ukraine, and the United Kingdom as the main producers.

French gooseberry imports come mainly from neighboring European countries, notably the Netherlands, Germany, and Poland. Although exact import volumes are not specified, they remain relatively small compared to domestic production. These imports have a limited impact on French production, as they mainly supplement local supply during off-season periods. However, competition from imported products encourages French producers to differentiate themselves by focusing on quality, local varieties, and sustainable production methods to maintain their position in the national market.

Development opportunities

The gooseberry market offers interesting opportunities for French producers, both in the conventional and organic sectors. In the conventional sector, the growing demand for natural and functional products is paving the way for a diversification of offers, particularly towards gooseberry extracts used in the food and cosmetics industries . Producers can explore new industrial opportunities, such as the production of standardized extracts for food supplements and nutraceuticals .

For the organic market, despite a slight slowdown, the outlook remains promising. The trend towards organic and sustainable production methods meets the expectations of environmentally conscious consumers . Organic producers can benefit from institutional support for converting to and maintaining organic farming. In addition, the growing demand for organic ready-to-eat (RTE) and ready-to-eat (RTE) products offers opportunities for developing new organic gooseberry-based products .

Profitability and financial aid

Gooseberry production offers interesting economic potential for French market gardeners. Conventionally grown, the average yield varies from 2 to 4 kg per plant per year, with an average selling price of 14 to 20 euros per kg for fresh produce . For organic crops, the yield is slightly lower, 1 to 2 kg per plant . However, the profitability of organic production is supported by specific aid, in particular conversion aid and maintenance aid .

In terms of profitability, gooseberry cultivation compares favorably with other crops. Gross margins can reach 700-1000 kg per 1000 m² per year, which is competitive compared with other market garden crops. To support this sector, the government has put in place aid schemes, including a €105 million budget in 2024 for organic farming . Producers can also benefit from an organic tax credit increased to €3,500, as well as regional aid for certification, installation and investments .

Sector challenges and risks

The gooseberry market, both conventional and organic, faces several challenges. The volatility of agricultural prices, a characteristic of agricultural markets, represents a major risk for producers by depriving them of the visibility necessary to increase their investments . This instability is particularly pronounced for sectors with low potential, where the increase in production costs can vary from €37 to €87/t depending on the scenarios .

The organic market faces multiple constraints. Strict regulations and high production costs can make it difficult for organic farms to achieve economic stability, as they experience lower yields than conventional agriculture . In addition, the risk of trivialization in the eyes of consumers and increased competition from new regulatory constraints imposed on conventional products threaten the differentiation of organic products . The loss of consumer confidence and the possible disappearance of specialist distribution also constitute serious threats to the organic sector .

Innovations and future prospects

The gooseberry sector is experiencing a promising dynamic of innovation. Research is underway to develop varieties that are more disease-resistant and better adapted to changing climatic conditions . The integration of agroecological practices, such as participatory selection involving farmers, is gaining ground to create more hardy and genetically diverse population varieties. These approaches aim to improve the resilience of crops to environmental stresses.

In the medium term, the market is expected to experience sustained growth, with projections reaching USD 1.92 billion by 2029 . This expansion will likely be driven by growing demand for natural and functional products, as well as the emergence of new opportunities in the food, cosmetics and nutraceutical industries . The emphasis on the health benefits of gooseberries, including their antioxidant properties, is expected to drive innovation in processed products and dietary supplements . The trend towards more sustainable agriculture and the demand for organic products could also influence the evolution of the market, with an expected growth of 3 to 5% in volume for the organic sector by 2025 .

Recommendations for market gardeners

The integration of gooseberry cultivation presents significant advantages for French market gardeners. This crop offers an interesting diversification with an attractive yield potential of 2 to 3 kg per plant in conventional farming . In addition, the growing demand for natural and functional products opens up new market opportunities .

However, the challenges are not insignificant. The crop requires special attention to irrigation, especially during periods of drought . Producers also have to deal with price volatility and competition from European imports .

Recommendations for market gardeners:

• Favor varieties adapted to the local terroir and resistant to diseases such as ' Varianta ' or ' Freedonia ' .
• Adopt agroecological practices to improve crop resilience and reduce costs.
• Explore processing and direct sales opportunities to increase added value .
• Consider organic conversion to benefit from specific aid and meet the growing demand for organic products .
• Invest in training and innovation to optimize cultivation and marketing techniques.

In conclusion, gooseberry cultivation can be a viable option for French market gardeners willing to invest in quality production and explore new markets. A strategic approach, combining innovation and sustainability, will be essential for success in this rapidly evolving sector.

Suppliers and professional advice

To obtain quality gooseberry plants or personalized advice for planting your plot, two specialized suppliers are at your disposal:

• Bairiverse ( https://plantspetitsfruits.com/ ): Wholesale supplier offering a wide range of small fruit plants, including gooseberries. They offer plants in various formats (mini-plugs, pots, pots) adapted to the needs of professionals . Their customer service is responsive, with a response within 48 hours .

• Vegetable Econome ( https://economealegumes.fr/ ): Trader in plants and plant material, offering decreasing prices according to volume and direct delivery to your farm . They have an organic and conventional range, and their sales team is available for personalized advice.

These two companies offer technical expertise and support to optimize your gooseberry production, from varietal selection to planting .

The berry market in France offers promising opportunities for market gardeners in 2025, thanks to growing demand for these prized fruits, both fresh and processed. Despite challenges related to climatic hazards, international competition, and production costs, producers can take advantage of regional specificities, financial support, and varietal innovations to develop this high-value-added sector, particularly in organic and short supply chains.

Presentation and commercial uses

Small red fruits include various species such as raspberries , gooseberries , blackcurrants and blueberries . They are generally shrubs or bushes producing edible berries appreciated for their taste and nutritional qualities . Their main commercial uses in France are:

• Fresh produce sales in markets and supermarkets, in high demand during the summer season
• Processing into jams, coulis, syrups and other derivative products
• Use in baking and catering
• Direct sales on the farm and through short supply chains, promoting local production
• Supplying the food industry (yogurts, desserts, etc.)

These fruits benefit from a positive image among consumers, associated with taste pleasure and health benefits . Their cultivation makes it possible to enhance the value of small agricultural areas, offering interesting opportunities for market gardeners .

Recent market developments

The French berry market has seen mixed developments in recent years. For the conventional market, there has been a slight increase in cultivated areas, particularly in Bourgogne-Franche-Comté, which accounts for 44% of national blackcurrant production . However, volumes have fluctuated due to climatic hazards. Regarding organic, despite a general downward trend in areas under conversion (-28% in 2022), the organic berry sector has held up better thanks to sustained demand . Certified organic areas increased by 8%, reflecting growing consumer interest in local organic products .

• Conventional market: Slight increase in surface area, variable volumes
• Organic market: Growth in certified areas (+8%), decrease in conversions
• Growing demand for local and organic products
• Organic fruit and vegetable market share stable at 6.7% in volume and 7.9% in value in 2024
• Less marked decline in volume purchases for organic fruit and vegetables compared to conventional ones

Current market status

The French berry market is currently experiencing mixed dynamics. For the conventional market, cultivated areas remain stable, with a slight upward trend for certain species such as strawberries. Production volumes fluctuate depending on climatic conditions, but there is growing demand for tropical fruits such as avocados, whose consumption reached 150,000 tonnes in 2023 . The organic market, meanwhile, is experiencing a slowdown after years of strong growth. Certified organic areas for fresh fruit will represent 30,269 ha in 2022, with a notable drop in conversions (-23%) . Despite this decline, organic still represents 27% of the French fruit-growing agricultural area, demonstrating a resilient sector in the face of current economic challenges .

• Conventional: Stability of surfaces, increasing demand for certain exotic fruits
• Organic: 30,269 ha certified, slowdown in conversions but maintenance of a significant share (27% of the fruit UAA)
• General trend: Decrease in volumes purchased (-10% organic, -6% conventional), but increase in the average basket

Producing regions and terroirs

The production of small fruits in France is concentrated in several key regions, each with its own specificities:

• Hauts-de-France: Leading gooseberry producing region (27% of national areas) . Aisne specializes in raspberries, Oise in blackcurrants, and Nord-Pas-de-Calais in strawberries .
• Rhône-Alpes: Main production area for raspberries and redcurrants .
• Burgundy: Important for blackcurrant cultivation, particularly in the communes of Arcenant, Echevronne, Fussey .
• Loire Valley: Diversified production, including blueberries, raspberries and redcurrants .
• Aquitaine and Limousin: Major areas for blueberries .

Favorable regional specificities include:

• Acidic to neutral, well-drained soils for most small fruits .
• Temperate climate with good sunshine, crucial for the development of aromas .
• Altitude (e.g. 900m on average in Velay) allowing for deseasonal production .

These varied conditions allow France to cultivate a wide range of small fruits, adapted to local terroirs.

Cultural requirements and varieties

Small fruits require specific growing conditions for optimal production. The main varieties grown in France include Gariguette and Mariguette for strawberries, and Patriot for blueberries . These fruits generally prefer well-drained soils, rich in organic matter, with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (5.5-7.0) . Irrigation is crucial, especially for strawberries and raspberries, with a drip system recommended . Planting density varies depending on the species: 30 cm between plants for strawberries, 100-150 cm for blueberries . Yields in organic farming are generally 20-30% lower than conventionally grown. Most small fruits come into production 1-2 years after planting and remain productive for 5-10 years, depending on the species and care .

Foreign trade and competition

France occupies a modest position on the international berry market, with insufficient production to meet domestic demand. Imports play a crucial role, particularly for raspberries and blueberries, where only 15% of consumption is covered by French production . The main suppliers are Spain, Peru, Chile, and Mexico, whose combined share reaches 51.4% of fresh berry imports . This dependence on imports exerts competitive pressure on French producers, particularly in terms of price, with Spain, for example, producing tomatoes at 1 euro less per kilo . However, this situation also offers opportunities for the development of local production, particularly in short supply chains and organic, to meet the growing demand for quality French products .

Development opportunities

The French berry market offers significant opportunities for local producers, both conventional and organic. For the conventional market, diversification into berries represents a promising growth strategy, allowing the exploitation of new segments and reducing the risks associated with a single production . The growing imports of raspberries (+100%), blackberries (+150%) and blueberries (+500%) over ten years reveal significant development potential for national production .

In the organic sector, despite a recent slowdown, opportunities remain numerous. Institutional aid, such as the "Ambition Bio 2017" program, aims to double the area under organic farming . Consumer demand for local and traceable organic products remains strong, offering opportunities in short supply chains, supermarkets and artisanal processing. Producers can benefit from investment aid from various organizations such as Regional Councils or FranceAgriMer to develop their organic projects .

Profitability and financial aid

Organic berry production has production costs that are approximately 20 to 30% higher than conventional production, mainly due to higher labor costs and generally lower yields . However, the selling prices of organic berries are on average 44% higher than their conventional equivalents, which helps to offset these additional costs . Potential profitability remains attractive, with gross margins reaching €15,000 to €20,000/ha for certain species such as raspberries or blueberries, compared to alternative crops such as cereals .

To support this sector, several aid schemes are available. Conversion aid (CAB) and maintenance aid (MAB) offer financial support to organic producers, with amounts varying depending on the crops . The organic tax credit, increased to €3,500, is also available to farms generating more than 40% of their income from organic products . In addition, an exceptional support fund of 105 million euros has been set up in 2024 to help organic farms that have suffered economic losses, demonstrating the commitment of public authorities to this promising sector.

Sector challenges and risks

The market for both conventional and organic berries is facing significant challenges. In the conventional sector, international competition, particularly from Poland, is exerting strong pressure on prices . Climatic hazards can lead to production losses ranging from 30 to 70% depending on the plots, while phytosanitary risks increase with a limited number of approved products . In addition, the presence of pesticide residues in more than 70% of conventional fruits raises concerns among consumers .

For the organic market, the main constraints are linked to high production costs, resulting from a more labor-intensive cultivation method . Strict regulations involve regular inspections and costly certifications. Competition is intensifying in the organic market, with supply growing faster than demand, putting downward pressure on prices . Organic berries cost 30% to 50% more than their conventional counterparts, which may hinder their adoption by consumers .

Innovations and future perspectives

The berry sector in France is experiencing a promising dynamic of innovation. Research is focusing on developing varieties that are more disease-resistant and adapted to climate change, such as the ever-bearing Kwanza raspberry or the Sekoya Pop blueberry . Agroecological practices are gaining ground, with the increasing adoption of techniques such as dynamic population management and participatory selection, allowing for better local adaptation of varieties .

By 2030, the market is expected to experience sustained growth, driven by changing eating habits and growing demand for healthy, local products . The goal of some brands, such as Pink Lady, to reach 100 million annual European consumers by 2030 illustrates this potential . The integration of advanced technologies, such as nanotechnology and precision agriculture, is also expected to revolutionize farming practices, improving yields and fruit quality .

Recommendations for market gardeners

Growing small fruits offers interesting opportunities for French market gardeners, but requires careful consideration before embarking on the venture. Advantages include growing demand, potentially high margins, and the opportunity to diversify production . However, this crop presents challenges such as high installation costs, sensitivity to climatic hazards and increased international competition .

For an informed decision, here are some recommendations:

• Carefully assess your land and water resources, which are essential for the success of these crops .
• Start small to test different varieties and techniques before investing heavily .
• Favor short circuits and direct sales to maximize margins .
• Consider organic certification to meet the growing demand for local and organic products .
• Learn specific growing and disease management techniques for these delicate fruits .
• Explore the financial assistance available for organic installation and conversion .

By taking a step-by-step approach and leveraging local resources and available support, integrating berries can become a major asset for your market gardening operation.

Specialist suppliers and consultants

For professional market gardeners looking for quality berry plants or advice on planting a plot, two specialist suppliers stand out on the French market:

• Bairiverse ( https://plantspetitsfruits.com/ ): Wholesale supplier offering a wide range of small fruit plants in various formats (mini-balls, pots, pots). They offer organic and conventional plants, with a responsive sales service and fast delivery throughout France .
• Econome à Légumes ( https://economealegumes.fr/ ): Trader in plants and plant material, offering producer prices and direct delivery to the farm. They supply organic and conventional plants, with a focus on quality and customer service .

These two companies not only offer quality plants, but also personalized technical support, advice on the choice of varieties and growing routes adapted to your project. Their expertise can prove invaluable in optimizing your berry production .