Australian Grapes Record Strong Sales Across Japan from Golden Week Through the End of the Spring Season!

The Australian Table Grape Association Inc. (ATGA), the industry body representing Australian table grape growers, is pleased to announce that its nationwide in-store sampling program, which began in April, has recorded strong sales throughout the spring season, including the Golden Week period (April 29–May 6). Import volumes to Japan for the 2026 season increased by approximately 30% compared to 2025, marking a new record high. Through over 132 sampling events across more than 18 prefectures, we are delivering the delicious taste of Australian grapes to consumers nationwide. Supply to Japan will continue until early June, and sampling events remain ongoing.

■ Golden Week Sales Performance
Golden Week falls during the off-season for domestic Japanese grapes, leading to high demand for Australian grapes, which arrive within 14–21 days of harvest, at major supermarkets nationwide. Significant sales growth was confirmed at stores conducting sampling events; according to a retail representative in Shizuoka Prefecture, grape sales on the day of the sampling event reached 394% compared to the same day the previous week. Multiple stores achieved sales more than three times higher than the previous week, with many reporting near sell-outs. Reports from various stores indicate that sales more than doubled depending on the presence of sampling events, leading to requests for future events.

■ Expectations as a Staple Fruit for Children's Day
Throughout this year's Golden Week and Children's Day (May 5) season, Australian grapes received particularly strong support from families. The convenience of being "seedless and edible-skin" was well-received by households with young children. Sales staff reported, "When children say they are delicious, fathers almost always buy them." This season's Children's Day served as a major indicator that Australian grapes are becoming a new staple fruit on family dining tables.

■ 2026 Season Key Data
● Import Volume: Approx. 30% increase year-on-year, record high
● Available Varieties: Over 130 (Green, Red, Black)
● Freshness: 14–21 days from harvest to store, 3°C cold chain maintained
● Sampling Events: Scheduled at over 132 locations across 18+ prefectures and 14+ retail chains

■ About the In-Store Sampling Program
Running from April through early June at major retail chains nationwide. Each event offers a three-color (green, red, black) tasting set, conducted in partnership with major importers KIFA and Union Co., Ltd.