This project aims to investigate consumer demand, factors in the supply chain and availability of local orchard produce, with the intention that better use can be made of this important resource.

Until the advent of modern global fruit supply chains, local orchards were an important source of fruit - even in areas of the UK such as Yorkshire and Humberside which are not traditionally associated with fruit production.

Often local orchards can offer traditional fruit varieties, indigenous to the area, having their own distinct flavour and character.

Having been reintroduced to these traditional varieties at such events as the National Apple Day celebrations, consumers are increasingly wanting to buy them

Although sometimes available through farm shops and farmers markets, consumers often complain of a difficulty in obtaining locally produced, traditional orchard produce.