Tesco and Lidl have both been recognised as two supermarkets defying market trends with British apple sales growth.

Tesco was named British apple supermarket of the year 2024 by British Apple & Pears Limited (BAPL), selling 26,705 tonnes, or 192m individual British apples, which is the equivalent to six apples every second.

The UK’s largest retailer’s sales usurps Aldi, which held the title last year.

Tesco chief commercial officer Ashwin Prasad said: “From British orchards to our tables, our customers love delicious home-grown apples. We’re proud to work with British growers to provide the nation with more apples than any other supermarket.

“Whether it’s enjoying one as a simple healthy snack, as part of a packed lunch on the go, or making a classic crumble to enjoy with loved ones, apples have a special place in our hearts and in our kitchens.”

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Meanwhile, Lidl achieved its best year-on-year performance in the category, buying 18,096 tonnes of British apples from BAPL members, representing 14% of all British apple sales, compared to its grocery market share of 8%.

Lidl was the only discounter to stock British apples 52 weeks of the year as part of a trial in selected stores, and with the introduction of a 50% off promotion via its loyalty Lidl Plus app, the supermarket chain saw apple sales jump by 51% on the first day of the offer.

The discounter’s chief commercial officer Richard Bourns said: “We’re delighted to receive recognition from BAPL for the increased volume of produce we buy from British growers. In a challenging year for the sector, it has been more important than ever that we back our British growers, and our significant over-index in British apple sales is testament to our ongoing commitment.

“We look forward to building on this positive development, as we roll out new varieties to ensure we’re stocking quality British apples throughout the year, whilst continuing to deliver market leading value for our customers.”