Peach varieties are divided in two main categories:

• clingstone, where the flesh of the fruit clings to the stone. This type is generally used for canning.

• freestone, where the stone readily twists away from the fruit. This type is generally found in supermarkets.

Clingstone and freestone peaches are available in both white and yellow varieties.

General news 2011:
Main events of 2001: The financial crisis, the increase of VAT in almost all EURO zone countries, along with the massive increase of sugar (an active traded commodity by now) from 560-580 to 900-920 USD/tn pressured prices to an average 15% higher than previous year. The USD-EUR stabilization at about 1,30 helped Greek packers regain previous market share lost by the strong EUR. USD-EUR of an average 1,5 in the years 2005-2009. Prices of fresh fruit slightly higher than last year.

Peach puree: peach puree production is increasing with positive news from the markets

Glass Jar: an increasing tendency from major markets. Still not an alternative. This packing has a long way to go.
 

General news 2007:
Due to oil price increase, production cost in Greece will follow the rest of the world. In addition the canning industries received in the past years prices which did not cover their cost. We are expecting this year higher cost for fresh fruits, in addition to oil related cost increase. 
The fruit – Peach:
Blossoming is over, no weather problems. Crop looks much better compared to last year, also good quality of raw material is expected.
Production expectations:
500,000 tons maximum available quantity fresh peaches
150.000 tons will be absorbed for purees
 30.000 tons will be absorbed from the frozen industry
 20.000 tons will be bought from various channel (local market, export etc.)
300.000 tons will be canned
 

In 2006 peach canneries packed approximately 275. 000 t.
Thereafter a minimum of 10% increase is expected.