Sweet cherries: German season kicks off with early harvests and limited supply

25 Jun 2025
2416

With the beginning of June, Germany has officially kicked off the sweet cherry season. Early varieties such as "Burlat" and "Bellise" are already available on the markets, coming mainly from the country's earliest production areas.

First harvests between direct sales and wholesale markets

In northern and western Germany, the color change in tunnel-grown fruits is now imminent. However, the early harvested quantities remain limited and are currently not sufficient to meet the needs of large retail chains.

The first German cherries are therefore mainly intended for direct sales and wholesale markets. Despite the limited volumes, prices remain fairly stable.

Underwhelming European supply: Turkey and Southern Europe struggling

Across Europe, supplies from Spain, Italy, and Greece are slowly increasing but remain lower than in previous years. Supply from Turkey also appears reduced, and the prices requested by suppliers remain high.

The majority of the available volumes are absorbed directly by supermarkets and discount stores, leaving little room for other channels.

In calendar week 23, according to AMI data, promotional activities in German retail stores numbered only 19, compared to 29 in previous years. Promotional prices range between €7.90 and €9.97 per kilo.

However, it is expected that in the coming weeks, retail chains will increase their promotional campaigns, further stimulating demand.

Figure 1. Fewer promotions compared to previous years. Promotional initiatives for sweet cherries in German food retail. Source: AMI promotional prices in food retail (LEH) © AMI 2025/OG-MW-1127 | AMI-informiert.de 

How will the season develop?

With availability still fragmented but growing, and demand showing signs of awakening, the coming weeks will be crucial in determining the overall trend of the sweet cherry season in Germany and Europe.

The spotlight remains on the balance between supply and price, a key factor for the commercial success of the sector this year.

Source: ami-informiert.de

Header image source: SL Fruit Service


Cherry Times – All rights reserved

What to read next

The hidden potential of sweet cherry waste: valorisation of cherry by-products for industrial applications

Processed

19 Jan 2026

Cherry stems, pits and pomace account for up to 30% of total output. This article explores how to turn agro-industrial waste into high-value products via green extraction and biorefineries. A concrete opportunity to support the circular bioeconomy.

29 bottles containing cherries from over 200 years ago discovered in the USA

Specialties

19 Jun 2024

The bottles were found in five storage pits in the cellar of George Washington's mansion, 29 of which contained cherries. The bottles were extracted from the pits and refrigerated, and it is planned to subject them to scientific analysis, the statement said.

In evidenza

Cherry cultivation in Uzbekistan has a minimal environmental impact

Tech management

13 Apr 2026

A FAO study in Uzbekistan analyzes the life cycle of apple, cherry and grape orchards, showing a negative carbon balance but critical issues in water use and eutrophication. Drip irrigation and solar energy improve sustainability, productivity and environmental impact.

A new era for Chilean cherries: building on success and diversifying to sustain it

Production

13 Apr 2026

Chile’s cherry industry has surged thanks to China, which absorbs 87% of exports. As the super cycle ends, the sector faces new challenges: tighter margins, rising competition and the urgent need to diversify markets to ensure long-term stability and growth.

Tag Popolari