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Apple growers angered at Coles' new size rule
17 Sep 2003
Growers are outraged at a decision by Coles Supermarkets to change the specifications for the supply of apples, which they say are "unrealistic". In some instances, growers are expected to put in an additional 1.5kg of fruit in a carton, to meet weight rules, without gaining one single extra cent. Other unrealistic specifications include one requiring a minimum amount of red colour on fuji and sundowner apples.
Growers say they were not officially notified of the changes and don't know when they'll be enforced. Others say they're being enforced, but only for sundowners.
Apple and Pear Australia Ltd said it believes Coles has changed the specifications to ensure standard size apples are displayed in all supermarkets. It says growers may have to consider selling to retailers by weight. They says it's important for retailers to acknowledge that producing apples is not an exact science.
Coles confirmed it has lifted the minimum carton weight from 12kg a to 12.5kg to "take account of weight lost through the supply line”. It said growers had been consulted and that to date most suppliers have been supportive of the changes proposed.
Weekly Times, 17/9/03, page 9.
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