Agricola Fraiburgo have taken the best strains of Royal Gala and Fuji apples into high altitue production in the Urepema region of Brazil, more simply known as the Highlands. Growing at 1450 metres altitude, fruit is of a much higher colouration and is more suited to the top end of the export market. The objectives for the brand are to access the specific UK retail and fresh cut processing customers who prefer later season, high coloured, sweet tasting clones. By taking production into the Highlands the risks of hail damage, becoming more common in traditional growing areas, is being reduced.

An added bonus is the social impact behind the project. Agricola Fraiburgo have taken virgin land, considered agriculturally unsuitable until 2002, into production generating the most important job creation scheme in the area. Known locally as the CEDRO project over 100 permanent and 200 seasonal jobs have been created in an area with traditionally high levels of unemployment.

The orchards are surrounded by land set aside as a natural reserve Production in 2007 will be 1400 tonnes of Royal Gala and 600 tonnes of Fuji. Production will grow to 5000 tonnes by 2010; 70% Royal Gala , 30% Fuji.

Partly good economic sense, partly ethically sound business practise, Agricola Fraiburgo's investment is expected to deliver a more export driven range of products.

Capespan Ltd are proud to be part of this exciting new offer.