During the distribution process of apples, “an export organization can either supply wholesale market or retail chains, depending on particular circumstances.” Also during the distribution process, distributors will wash, sort, and package the produce so that it is ready for consumers. Exporters are responsible for labeling and bar-coding their items. While some large commercial operations sell directly to an importer, others will work with agents during the distribution process of apples. This means that “agents will establish contacts between producers/export organizations and buyers in the importing country, an will usually take between 2% and 3% commission” (NDA 45).
One possible social and environmental effect that is vital to investigate during the distribution process of apples is the idea of pests and pathogens existing in apples. One of the main pests that has been prominent in South Australia is the codling moth. They are believed to have been imported accidentally overseas. Along with codling moths, the fear of pathogens in apples coming from Australian is a prevalent fear due to recent issues with apples coming from South Australia. In 2011, apples were rejected from South Australia due to the presence of leaf matter. It is very important for these apples to be continuously checked for possible diseases and pests, even through the distribution process, to ensure consumers are not exposed to any diseases.