The British apple industry is continuously asked by UK retailers to extend availability; this being achieved
by implementing ever more sophisticated storage technologies. Whilst this demand is driven by a
brand loyalty to domestic production, the industry is increasingly challenged by imports. In order that
primary production of UK apples can be fully utilised and be made more competitive, a paradigm shift is
needed to improve how apples are stored such that the focus is moved towards ‘flavour-life’ rather than
being just driven by firmness and sugar content. The proposed work will develop novel sensor and allied
storage interventions which will control ripening whilst maintaining ‘flavour-life’. This offers a route to
incremental storage extension to help reduce the reliance on imports and extend the window in which
high quality British fruit can be offered.