Fresh Strawberry Market Report and Forecast 2024-2032

Global Fresh Strawberry Market Size

The global fresh strawberry market reached a value of around USD 20.69 billion in 2023. During the forecast period of between 2024 and 2032, the market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 4.40% to reach around USD 30.56 billion by 2032.

Fresh Strawberry Market Outlook

• In 2022, the USDA-NASS reported total strawberry production of 27.82 million hundredweight (cwt, 100 pounds) with California producing 89.1% and Florida producing 10.9%.

• According to the latest data from the National Horticulture Board (NHB), India's total strawberry production in 2021-22 was 13.52 thousand tonnes. Haryana was the top producing state, contributing 31.50% or 4.26 thousand tonnes to the national output.

• In 2022, Maharashtra was the second largest producer of strawberries, accounted for 24.25% or 3.28 thousand tonnes, where Mahabaleshwar was responsible for about 85% of total strawberry production.

Fresh Strawberry Market Growth

A strawberry is a small, juicy red fruit with small brown seeds on its surface, which comes from the strawberry plant (genus Fragaria) in the rose family (Rosaceae). The fruit is widely appreciated for its characteristic aroma, bright red colour, juicy texture, and sweetness. Fresh strawberries are very high in water, so their total carb content is fewer than 8 grams of carbs per 3.5 ounces. They are an excellent source of vitamin C and manganese and contain decent amounts of folate (vitamin B9) and potassium.

Factors that positively impact fresh strawberry market outlook include the increasing demand for superfoods, the rising popularity of organic and locally sourced strawberries, and the growing consumption of functional foods and beverages. Consumers are increasingly seeking nutritious and natural products like fresh strawberries, which are rich in vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants, to support their health and well-being. Also, the trend towards organic and locally sourced produce aligns with environmental sustainability goals and further drives the market’s growth. Additionally, the market benefits from the innovation in incorporating fresh strawberries into functional drinks to enhance nutritional content and flavor, catering to the changing dietary preferences of consumers.

Key Trends and Developments

Incorporation of fresh strawberries in functional foods, popularity of organic strawberries, and advancements in production technology are factors boosting the fresh strawberry market growth

April 2024

A Japanese fruit-selling company called Ikigai Fruits began exported high-end strawberries to the US in 2023, including Kotoka strawberries for USD 89/lb, Kirameki strawberries for USD 238, and Pearl White strawberries for USD 128 per 500g.

November 2023

Tic Tac, the confectionery brand of Ferrero India, launched two new flavours nationwide: Tic Tac Strawberry pills in the core and Jeera-Black Salt pills from the Tic Tac Seeds range. The strawberry flavour redefined the way Indians savour mint.

September 2023

Bayer AG expanded its fruits and vegetables business by including strawberries to meet growing consumer demand for year-round, high-quality strawberries. The company acquired the strawberry assets of UK-based NIAB to provide premium strawberry genetics and crop protection products to large-scale growers.

April 2023

Red Bull launched a limited-edition strawberry and apricot-flavoured energy drink in the US. The strawberry-flavoured drink was launched in a single can format and experienced great revenue from online and offline distribution channels.

Incorporation of fresh strawberries in functional foods and beverages

The growing popularity of functional foods and beverages has bolstered the fresh strawberry market development as manufacturers are incorporating fresh strawberries into different food items. Chobani, a leading yogurt brand, offers a line of real strawberry-flavoured Greek yoghurts that are high in protein.

Increasing popularity of organic and locally sourced strawberries

Consumers are becoming more conscious of their health and the environmental impact of their food choices, driving the demand for organic and locally sourced fresh strawberries. Organic strawberries, grown without synthetic pesticides and chemicals, are perceived as a healthier option. Driscoll's, a leading berry company, offers a range of organic strawberries that are grown using sustainable farming practices.

Diversification of strawberry varieties

The fresh strawberry market offers a diverse range of cultivars, including June Bearing, Ever Bearing, and Day Neutral strawberries, each with its unique flavour profile, characteristics, and growing patterns. This diversification allows consumers to choose from a wide selection of fresh strawberries.

Advancements in production and storage technologies

Technological advancements in areas such as protected horticulture, plastic tunnels, and glass greenhouses have enabled strawberry growers to increase their production capacity and extend the availability of fresh strawberries throughout the year.

Fresh Strawberry Market Trends

Additionally, improvements in transportation and storage technologies have allowed for the distribution of fresh strawberries to a wider geographic reach, making them accessible to consumers year-round. For example, Driscoll's utilises advanced greenhouse technologies to grow strawberries, which ensures a consistent supply of high-quality berries. These advancements have contributed to the fresh strawberry market expansion.

Additionally, the availability of different strawberry types throughout the year also enhances the market's resilience and appeal to consumers. For instance, June Bearing strawberries are known for their intense sweetness and are typically harvested in early summer; while Ever Bearing and Day Neutral varieties produce fruit throughout the growing season.

Fresh Strawberry Industry Segmentation

The EMR’s report titled “Fresh Strawberry Market Report and Forecast 2024-2032” offers a detailed analysis of the market based on the following segments:

Market Breakup by Type

• Organic

• Conventional

Market Breakup by Plant Type

• June Bearing

• Ever Bearing

• Day Neutral

Market Breakup by Application

• Food and Beverage
  • Dairy
  • Confectionery
  • Beverages
  • Bakery
  • Condiments
• Cosmetics and Personal Care

Market Breakup by Sales Channel

• Online

• Offline

Market Breakup by Region

• North America

• Europe

• Asia Pacific

• Latin America

• Middle East and Africa

Fresh Strawberry Market Share

Organic strawberries lead the market due to their perceived health benefits and environmental sustainability

Organic strawberries are leading the market due to the increasing consumer preference for clean-label and organic products free from synthetic pesticides and fertilisers. The demand for organic strawberries is driven by the perception of them being healthier and more environmentally friendly. Organic strawberries are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and beneficial compounds, making them a desirable ingredient in various food and beverage products, cosmetics, and personal care items.

Conventional strawberries, while still prominent in the market, face competition from the organic segment due to the rising demand for healthier and cleaner food options. Conventional strawberries are widely used in processed foods, confectionery, dairy products, and condiments, which contributes to the overall fresh strawberry market growth. The segment benefits also from its broad availability, cost-effectiveness, and established market presence.

Food and beverage industry holds a significant market share due to its diverse range of applications for fresh strawberries

The food and beverage industry showcases a diverse range of applications for fresh strawberries. In the dairy segment, products like strawberry-flavored yogurt, smoothies, milkshakes, and cottage cheese prominently feature fresh strawberries to enhance both taste and nutritional value. Yoplait offers a popular line of strawberry yogurt enriched with real fruit pieces. Additionally, the beverage industry incorporates fresh strawberries into juices, smoothies, and fruit-based drinks to provide a natural sweetness and refreshing taste. Brands like Naked Juice offer strawberry-flavored smoothies that highlight the freshness of the fruit.

As per fresh strawberry market analysis, strawberries, renowned for their rich antioxidant content, vitamins, and beneficial compounds, are also used in cosmetics and personal care products. In skincare, brands like Tata Harper and Drunk Elephant utilise strawberry extracts in their formulations to capitalise on the fruit's skin-brightening properties and protective antioxidants. Additionally, the sweet and fruity aroma of strawberries is a popular choice in fragrances, with perfumes like Jo Malone's "Strawberry and Mint" and body mists like Bath & Body Works' "Strawberry Pound Cake" featuring fresh strawberry notes.

Leading Producers in the Fresh Strawberry Market

Market players are focused on introducing new varieties of fresh strawberries with improved flavour, texture, and shelf-life

Naturipe Farms, LLC, established in 1917 and headquartered in California, United States, specialises in a wide range of fresh berries, including strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, and raspberries. The company also offers frozen berries, value-added berry products, concentrates, and purees.

Carlsbad Strawberry Company, located in California, United States, provides a unique experience for visitors with its U-Pick strawberry and pumpkin fields. The company was founded in 1950 and is known for its fresh strawberries and seasonal pumpkin offerings.

Keelings was founded in 1926 and is based in Dublin, Ireland. It is Ireland's largest fruit and vegetable distributor and specialises in a wide range of berries, including strawberries, blueberries, raspberries and blackberries, with a growing capacity of 100 million strawberries annually. The company also grows apples, pears, pineapples, and cherries.

Wish Farms, Inc. was founded in 1922 and based in Florida, United States. It is a leading supplier of strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, and raspberries. With growing regions spanning across the USA, Canada, and South America, the company ensures a diverse and consistent supply of flavourful berries.

Other key players in the global fresh strawberry market include Dole PLC, GÖKNUR GIDA, Berry Gardens Growers Limited, Fresgarrido, S.L., Driscoll's, Inc., and Strawberry Hill U.S.A., among others.

Fresh Strawberry Market Analysis by Region

North America holds the largest share in the market due to vast production of strawberries in the United States

North America holds the largest share in the market due to the vast production of strawberries in the United States, which is a significant producer worldwide. As per industry reports, the U.S. strawberry market primarily thrives in southern and coastal areas, with California leading in production volume. Moreover, the growing improvement of the supply chain facilitates the easy availability of raw materials to end-user application industries for manufacturing diverse processed food items is a fundamental factor driving the regional fresh strawberry market share.

The Asia Pacific region is a rapidly growing market for fresh strawberries, driven by countries such as China, Japan, India, and South Korea. The region is likely to see significant development in the coming years as per capita consumption of fresh strawberries rises. Moreover, several processed food producers are establishing production bases in the region due to the availability of raw materials and labour, which further propels regional market expansion.

Key Highlights of the Report