Global Plant Genetics, a UK-based company that provides intellectual property management and technical support for a range of protected berry and asparagus varieties, has reportedly won a major contract to develop the international market for blueberries belonging to Oregon Blueberry Farms and Nursery in the US.

According to a news report posted on Spanish trade website Fruit Today, Oregon Blueberry Farms and Nursery has appointed Global Plant Genetics to manage its blueberry genetics around the world.

The group has been breeding blueberries for 16 years and now, with Global Plant Genetics’ help, is apparently ready to introduce two high-chill varieties, Megasblue and Titanium, to growers outside the US.

“There will be more exciting advanced selections coming through the pipeline shortly,” commented Bob Gabriel, owner of Oregon Blueberry Farms and Nursery.

Rupert Hargreaves of Global Plant Genetics commented: “This is an exciting development in the blueberry world. We have a renowned international presence in the management of intellectual property with a strong focus on our blueberry portfolio.”

He added: “The quality of the plant breeding, the commitment of the team at Oregon Blueberry Farms and Nursery, as well as their desire to internationalise their blueberry genetics makes this a perfect combination for our two companies.”

The Global Berry Congress, which took place in Rotterdam on 27-29 March, heard that commercial production of highbush blueberries worldwide is expected to reach 904,000 tonnes by 2021.

Global planted area for highbush blueberries is now in excess of 135,00ha, according to the International Blueberry Organization, more than double what it was in 2008.