Peach for the future: A specialty crop revisited

•Current trends on peach cultivar and rootstock breeding initiatives are highlighted.•Efficient cropping system is linked to appropriate rootstock selection and canopy architecture.•Training system selection is of equal importance with rootstock selection.•High density plantation may result in reduced production cost and enhanced orchard sustainability.•Decision making in the orchard and packinghouse is critical for optimum fruit quality.•Peach industry needs to shift to a systems approach through a re-design of the whole supply chain.