New apple bears fruit

T&G says the new apple is the result of over ten years of innovation in New Zealand.

A productive, large, full-flavoured bright red juicy apple, the company says it will appeal to both consumers and growers, with trees producing high yielding, high colour fruit.

Global consumers will be able to enjoy the new apple from 2028 onwards.

T&G Global chief executive Gareth Edgecombe says Joli harnesses New Zealand's great intellectual property and its addition to the company's premium apple portfolio will help build a stronger horticulture sector.

"New Zealand has an enviable global reputation for innovating, developing and sourcing the world's best plant genetics and growing world-class premium apples," he says.

"T&G's growth strategy is focused on utilising this to create value for our growers, regional communities and economy. This is critical in order to succeed in what is a highly fragmented and commoditised global apple market."

Edgecombe says the new apple has very strong orcharding attributes, including high levels of output and the ability to grow throughout New Zealand.

He says a new variety requires a team effort and Joli is the result of VentureFruit, T&G's IP management and commercialisation business, working closely with innovation company Prevar and Plant & Food Research in New Zealand.

"These organisations work in collaboration on the world-renowned pipfruit breeding programme, to deliver new varieties that meet both current and future market opportunities."

T&G is the global exclusive license holder for growing, marketing and selling the variety. It plans to plant 27 hectares on its own orchards over the next three years.

T&G is also seeking expressions of interest and from independent growers across New Zealand to be part of the commercial growing pilot. Over the next five to six years, as additional trees become available, T&G says it will extend the opportunity to growrs in other countries.