This year, Latvian apples will be scarce in supermarkets due to a poor harvest. Many orchards are directing their limited supply to schools, while juice producers are also facing shortages.
The worst situation is reported in Latgale, according to Vidusdaugava Television.
In Lona, Jēkabpils region, lies the country's largest commercial fruit orchard, Poceri, covering 150 hectares. Normally, the farm produces around 1,000 tons of apples. This season, however, the harvest will be only 60–70 tons. Although Poceri usually works with major retail chains, this year it will not supply supermarkets. "Unfortunately, we won't deliver anywhere this season, only fulfill obligations under the 'Fruit for Schools' program," said Modris Lāčplēsis, chairman of the Poceri cooperative.
The shortage is also affecting the juice industry. In one Jēkabpils plant, staff admit they have never seen such a poor season. "We try to press at least something every day to keep customers, but there's little sense in it," explained Kaspars Ribikauskis, head of Sulu Box. The company primarily works with private clients, who bring their own apples, but the lack of fruit results in falling income, difficulties paying salaries, and problems covering expenses.
According to Jānis Zilvers, deputy chairman of the Latvian Fruit Growers' Association, unfavorable weather hit orchards across the country. "The situation is very bad, not only in Latvia, but also in neighboring countries. The worst is in Latgale and eastern regions, where cold, wet weather and spring frosts struck during flowering," he noted.
Source: rus.lsm.lv