Blackcurrants and redcurrants are the favourites, with sales of redcurrants increasing by more than 264% since last year, and blackcurrants more than 120%.
Even gooseberries are getting in on the act with a greater demand for the plump British berries, with an increase of over 15% in the last four weeks.
Waitrose buyer for soft fruits, Nicki Baggott, says: “The increase in sales of forgotten British berries can be put down to a warm summer, meaning more alfresco dining, which encourages Brits to create a variety of lighter dishes with fresh berries.
“We’ve seen an increase in customer demand for soft fruits ever since we launched pineberries at Waitrose in April this year. The customer is looking for the taste of something traditionally British, and of course summery when the weather is this good.”
Redcurrants, blackcurrants and gooseberries are just as versatile as their more common friends and can be used in a variety of dishes.
Waitrose is set to launch limited edition yellow raspberries, Amber raspberries and fragrant Rose strawberries over the next few weeks.
Source: Waitrose
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