Innovar, the independent innovation division of the Freshmax Group dedicated to varietal innovation, has launched an ambitious project to introduce a new range of intellectual property (IP) cherry varieties in Australia, sourced from some of Europe’s most renowned breeding programmes: Gräb, JKI and Schwitzky.
This initiative involves selected growers across Australia’s leading cherry-producing regions, with the aim of testing and developing high-potential varieties for global premium markets. The proposed portfolio spans a wide harvest window—from early to very late-season cultivars—and is characterised by high Brix levels, crisp texture and long shelf life, making it well suited for export.
The Gräb KIR programme, developed in Kettig, Germany, represents one of the key pillars of the initiative. Among the most promising varieties are Volcano and Lamour, both positioned in the late-season segment. These cultivars are designed to extend the commercial season, offering large, sweet fruit with firm flesh. Initial commercial production is already underway in Tasmania and in several southern Australian states.
The prestigious Julius Kühn-Institut (JKI) has also granted access to a selected group of varieties conceived as high-yield alternatives for the early and mid-season segments, particularly as potential replacements for Kordia.
The third European partner, Schwitzky, has introduced two new selections with an intense aromatic profile and long stems, developed through a breeding programme based in Beesenstedt. Schwitzky material is currently in the process of being imported into Australia and other international markets.
Innovar has chosen to replicate in Australia a collaborative platform model that has already proven successful in New Zealand. The system is based on semi-exclusive and transparent licensing, ensuring fair access to new varieties for all participating partners.
“This approach allows us to scale innovation effectively, offering Australian growers access to some of the best cherry genetics currently available worldwide,” said Tess Palamara, Head of IP Grower Relations at Innovar Global.
According to William Snell, IP General Manager at Freshmax Australia, “the varieties currently under evaluation represent a step change, both in terms of production timing and fruit quality. Working directly with our supply chain partners is essential to fully unlock this potential.”
The project, Innovar explains, represents a significant strategic investment in both varietal research and commercial infrastructure. Initial feedback from Australian industry operators has been highly positive, reflecting a sector ready to embrace genetic innovation as a key driver of differentiation.
Innovar is thus confirmed as a central pillar of Freshmax’s strategy, increasingly focused on the development and valorisation of protected varieties, while strengthening its position as a reference player in IP licensing and horticultural innovation across the Asia-Pacific region.
Source: fruitnet.com
Image source: Stefano Lugli
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