French strawberries are holding their own against competition thanks to the development of soilless cultivation.

While the strawberry season is in full swing in France, the French industry continues to face particularly strong international competition. To maintain its market position, producers have profoundly transformed their cultivation methods over the past few decades, notably through the development of soilless greenhouse cultivation.

Today, French production reaches between 50.000 and 60.000 tons per year and covers more than half of national consumption. This performance is remarkable in a context where nearly 60% of the fruit consumed in France is imported. In twenty years, strawberry imports have even decreased by 44%, a sign of the sector's ability to adapt.

More efficient and quality-oriented production

Soilless cultivation has become a major driver of competitiveness. Planted in substrates placed at eye level, the plants benefit from better monitoring and significantly increase yields while improving working conditions for harvesters. This system also facilitates labor recruitment in a sector facing increasing challenges.

French producers prioritize taste above all else to differentiate themselves. Varieties like the Gariguette remain particularly sought after by consumers. Harvested at peak ripeness thanks to shorter distribution channels, French strawberries have a higher sugar content than some imported fruits, which are picked earlier to withstand transport.

While the sector remains profitable, it must nevertheless contend with rising production costs, whether for seedlings, substrates, transport, or energy. Industry professionals also believe that room for growth remains limited, due to a lack of new farms and candidates to take over existing operations. Varietal innovation now appears to be one of the main drivers for continuing the development of French production while maintaining its quality standards.