2.5 million boxes of cherries shipped in 7 days

Through July 14th, the Northwest cherry industry shipped 18,511,530 boxes (20-pound equivalent). While daily volume has dropped below 300,000 boxes there are still promotions in place in both domestic and export markets. "Over the past 7 days, we’ve shipped 2.5 million boxes, at an average rate of 358,000 boxes per day." mentioned James Michael from Northwest Cherries.

Interestingly, both 2015 and 2016 seasons saw 7 days over 500,000 boxes, but with two notable differences. While 2016 had two days over 600,000 boxes (651K on June 27, and 625k the next day, June 28) the spread of this year’s 500,000 box shipping days occurred over a 19 day window. Contrastingly, all but one of 2015’s days occurred within a 9 day window. "We will surpass this season’s 5-State estimate. Industry experts are citing the record shipments in June and high quality of late season fruit as key drivers in the crop picking out above expectations."

"Cherry displays are still strong, owing in large part to the tremendous quality of this season’s crop. Feedback points to sustained repeat sales as consumers continue to enjoy the seasonal treat. As the Northwest season begins to wind down, Top Retailers are boosting attention to their in-store displays to ensure they don’t miss opportunities for late season sales."

Total Rainier shipments are just over 1.54 million 15-pound boxes. Rainier shipments per day have a decreased weekly average, ending on the 5th, of 17,000 per day to just shy of 7,000 per day for the same period ending yesterday.

For more information: www.nwcherries.com