Due to the relatively small volumes of fruit currently available, three possible valued-added products, Juice, Cider and Preserves, have been identified and investigated with potential collaborative partners identified and approached. In each case the collaborative partner is willing to discuss the possibilities further.
The potential and mechanism for creating a Clyde Valley Orchard brand is also examined. However, discussions with David Craig at Clyde Valley Tomatoes revealed that he has structured his brand in such a way that other products from the Clyde Valley can be added to the ‘brand family’. He appears very supportive of any initiative with the Clyde Valley Orchard and could help with marketing and distribution. With David’s retail experience, this would seem to be an ideal solution but would be subject to further negotiation and agreement.
There is a real opportunity to develop added-value products from the Clyde Valley Orchard but, because of the current state of the orchards and the nature of expanding fruit production, it is going to take several years to create a business of a significant size. However, the current market conditions make this an ideal time to begin if there is willingness amongst enough of the producers.
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