Australian Soluna apples make US comeback with expanded coast‑to‑coast supply
Following a successful 2025 debut, Australian leading fresh produce exporter WA Farm Direct is bringing back premium Soluna apples to the United States for the 2026 season.
"This season marks a significant expansion for the Australian‑bred variety, with shipments arriving on both the East Coast and West Coast, improving availability and service across key retail markets," said the company in a press release.
Developed in Western Australia, the Soluna apple (technically known as ANABP 01) is renowned for its deep burgundy skin, outstanding crunch, and balanced, sweet flavor profile.
Soluna apples ride the export wave
Export momentum is building as the 2026 harvest concludes across Australia. Production volumes are up 10 percent year‑on‑year, supported by ongoing grower investment and younger orchards progressing toward maturity.
“Demand for Soluna is exceptionally strong this season, with production also increasing through better growing conditions,” said Elliot Jones, General Manager at WA Farm Direct.
Following a successful inaugural launch in the US last season, the Soluna program continues its partnership with Canadian grower and distributor Oppy and returns with an enhanced logistics strategy. Fruit is set to arrive through both East Coast and West Coast ports, enabling improved distribution efficiency, greater market reach, and increased consistency for retail partners.
"Color break is critical for driving excitement and incremental sales in the apple category, and Soluna delivers exactly that," said Piers Hanbury, Executive Director of Apples, Cherries, Pears and Category Development at Oppy. "After a standout debut season, expanding to coast-to-coast distribution this year is a natural next step; a testament to the quality of the fruit and the strength of our partnership with WA Farm Direct."
Quality, resilience and long‑term growth
Despite seasonal challenges, including heat events in parts of Victoria and South Australia, fruit quality has remained strong. Protective orchard cover and a diverse national grower base of more than 80 orchards have helped mitigate climatic risk and ensure reliable supply.
“With Soluna, we’ve developed a premium product with long‑term growth in mind,” Jones said. “Our priority is to deliver returns that support grower sustainability while continuing to build the brand in key global markets.”
In addition to North America, WA Farm Direct continues to advance Soluna programs across Asia and explore new opportunities in the Middle East, reinforcing the variety’s global appeal.
*All images courtesy of Oppy.
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