As the 2025 apple and pear season charges ahead, there’s a noticeable energy in the air — not just across the industry, but here at Betko too. Our packhouses are alive with movement week on week. Cold storage is nearing full capacity. And for the last month each week, we’re receiving record volumes of fruit at intake. It’s a season that’s testing our capacity, rewarding our preparation, and reminding us why we do what we do.
Across the country, growers and packers are experiencing the ripple effects of what’s shaping up to be a very strong season. Apple exports are expected to increase by 5% compared to last year, and pear exports are close behind with a 4% rise. This comes down to a combination of well-timed rainfall, cool night-time temperatures that boost fruit colouring, and maturing orchards that are coming into their own.
Red bi-coloured apple varieties like Royal Gala and Bigbucks are leading the charge, with the latter seeing a 24% growth in volume alone. Pears like Forelle and Abate Fetel are also trending upwards. While the season started slightly later than usual, packing operations across the country are now operating full steam ahead — and Betko is no exception.
At Betko, our intake figures recently have reached record highs. Our teams have adapted quickly to keep up with demand. We’re running at full capacity, and our cold storage is operating with precision to accommodate the pace.
Behind every box that leaves our facility is a coordinated effort across many teams — and none more central to this season’s success than our quality assurance department.
We sat down with Jeanne-Mari Burger our Quality Assurance Manager, to get a closer look at how we’re managing quality during one of the busiest harvests in recent memory.
Q: How would you describe the season so far at Betko?
It’s been one of the busiest I can remember, but also one of the most rewarding. We’re seeing strong volumes and good quality overall, but what’s really stood out is the energy across our teams — everyone has stepped up.
Q: With so much fruit coming in, how are we maintaining our usual quality standards?
It comes down to process and teamwork. We’ve put additional checks in place, and our QC teams are trained to spot even the smallest issue. The goal is consistency. Whether it’s the first bin or the thousandth, each fruit gets the same care and attention.
Q: Have there been any new challenges this season?
The volume alone has required us to think differently. Logistics, storage space, timing — it’s all more demanding. But thanks to the upgrades we’ve made in recent years, we’re managing it well. Communication between departments has also been key.
Q: Any trends in the varieties we’re packing this year?
Definitely. The red bi-colours are performing well, and we’re seeing high demand for Bigbucks. In pears, Forelle is looking very promising, both in size and colour. It’s exciting to see these varieties doing so well.
Q: What do you think sets Betko apart during a high-pressure season like this?
I’d say it’s our ability to keep calm under pressure and still prioritise quality. It’s easy to focus on speed when you’re busy — but for us, quality always comes first. That mindset is part of who we are.
As we move deeper into the season, it’s a good time to pause and appreciate the people making it all happen. From the intake bays all the way through to the dispatch team, every fruit passes through many hands before it leaves our facility. These hands — skilled, experienced, and committed — are what make the heartbeat of Betko.
This season may be defined by numbers — record volumes, full storage, fast turnaround — but behind it all, it’s still a people story. And that’s the part we’re most proud of.
The season is far from over, and if the past few weeks are any indication, we’ve got a lot more work ahead of us. But we’re ready. Our lines are running smoothly, our team is focused, and the fruit is looking fantastic.
As always, we’ll continue to pack with care — not just because it’s what we do, but because we know where our fruit is going. And that journey starts right here.