ENZA TRIMS GRANNY SMITH PROMOTIONS

VANCOUVER, B.C. -- New Zealand Granny Smith apples are going to be hard to find this season, but Braeburn and Fuji apples from the land down under will be plentiful.

significantly scaling back supplies and promotions of Granny Smiths.

"The changeover is market-driven," said James Milne, Enza's vice president. "Many other Granny Smith suppliers have emerged all over the world, which in part prompted New Zealand growers to focus their efforts on the premium varieties like Braeburn and Fuji."

North America has recently been flooded with Granny Smith apples from several foreign sources, particularly since the U.S. government lifted economic sanctions on South Africa, which last year shipped 850,000 cartons to U.S. receivers.

Enza manages a 10-member North American merchandising team that will work with retailers and wholesalers to promote Braeburn, Fuji and other New Zealand varieties. The board hopes to increase sales of Fuji apples alone by 100% over a year ago.