The 2025 harvest season has set a historic benchmark for Flash Gala, with a record 1,478,454 cartons packed – the highest volume since the brand’s commercial debut. This represents a remarkable 41% increase from last season.
“This is the biggest Flash Gala crop we’ve ever seen,” says Calla du Toit, procurement manager at Tru-Cape Fruit Marketing and chair of the BigBucks Growers’ Association. “The surge is driven by orchards reaching maturity, exceptional harvest conditions, and the absence of adverse weather. Fruit quality was outstanding, and pack-outs exceeded expectations.”
Quality and Horticultural Progress
This year’s harvest set new benchmarks for quality, colour, and consistency.
“We saw a dramatic improvement in eating quality, largely because the trees are now maturing,” explains Angelique Pretorius, technical manager at Kromco. “In the early years, young trees planted on strong rootstocks were too vigorous, leading to quality issues. Now, as canopies settle and growth shifts from vegetative to reproductive, fruit quality is more stable and reliable.”
Improved orchard discipline has also been critical. Growers are learning to harvest closer to optimal maturity, resisting the temptation to pick too early when colour is already strong.
Rising Global Demand
Flash Gala is giving South Africa a competitive edge in global markets.
“It’s a premium Gala that can match New Zealand’s in both colour and eating quality,” says Calla.
Export demand has been robust, led by India, where strong brand loyalty quickly developed. Shipments also went to China, Malaysia, Vietnam, Singapore, the Middle East, and across Africa, where buyers value Flash Gala’s shelf life and consistent specifications.
“In Africa, especially in Nigeria, Ghana, and Cameroon, demand was excellent,” notes DG Malherbe, export manager for Africa at Tru-Cape.
Profitability and Expansion
Flash Gala’s profitability continues to climb.
“Profitability levels have improved dramatically year on year,” says Calla. “Prices have exceeded expectations, with inflation in sales outpacing cost inflation.”
Encouraged by strong results, growers are planning a second wave of plantings within the next two to three years. Regions with proven success are expected to expand significantly, supported by solid returns and growing international demand.
Louis du Toit, marketing manager at Dutoit Agri, says client feedback was overwhelmingly positive: “The fruit sold exceptionally well. But we must diversify into new markets such as the Middle East, Bangladesh, and the Far East, while also improving storability to extend the sales window.”
Teamwork and Innovation
The record season reflects collective effort across the value chain.
“This has been a team victory – from production to packing to export,” says Calla. “With continued collaboration and focus on quality, the growth potential is enormous.”
Innovation is also playing a vital role, with many young horticulturists and technical specialists driving progress.
“With record volumes, top-class quality, and strong global demand, Flash Gala is establishing itself as one of South Africa’s most exciting apple success stories – and a brand with a bright future,” concludes Louis.
