FruitMasters introduces Bestum: a sweeter blackberry in the Best of Berries soft fruit programme 

Berlin, 6 February 2025 – FruitMasters officially introduced the new sweet blackberry, Bestum, at Fruit Logistica in Berlin. This flavourful variety is the latest addition to FruitMasters’ Best of Berries programme, an exclusive selection of soft fruit varieties that meet the highest standards in production, taste, quality and sustainability.  

This innovative variety was developed with a strong focus on excellent taste and strong performance throughout the production chain. Bestum stands out for its uniformly sweet flavour, better texture and reliable yield. Offering a consistently high Brix value, Bestum provides a flavour experience that will delight growers, retailers and consumers alike. The new variety also ensures consistent firmness and dependable production, making it a reliable choice for both domestic and international markets. 

FruitMasters marketing manager Coen Kampschoër explains: “Bestum is a valuable addition to the blackberry category. Its refined flavour, excellent quality, firmness and high productivity make the variety particularly well-suited to a category in which yield and taste are closely linked. Our Best of Berries programme aims to introduce the best varieties and add value across the entire supply chain.” 

 

Benefits for growers, retailers and consumers

Improvements in production and quality make Bestum an attractive choice for growers, with yields comparable to common varieties. The first commercial harvests are expected this year. The variety offers retailers a steady supply of consistently sweet blackberries, while consumers can enjoy a superior taste experience.  

Working together on the future of soft fruit 

The launch of Bestum aligns with FruitMasters’ vision to develop sustainable varieties that benefit growers, supply chain partners, and consumers. The variety will be available in the Netherlands exclusively through FruitMasters’ Best of Berries programme, which also includes the seed-bred Sonrosa strawberry and the sweeter Skoander redcurrant. The programme’s strategic collaborations and groundbreaking varieties are driving continuous innovation in the soft fruit sector.