Warm days and cool, crisp nights have allowed Pacific Northwest cherries to develop high sugar, great flavor and color this season. “It is exciting to see such great quality coming off the trees,” says George Harter with CMI Orchards. “This year seems to be better than anyone can remember,” he added. “We’ve had reports from the field and packing facilities that our cherries are the best they’ve seen in years.” Harter reported that retail customers are already sharing feedback on how pleased they are with the quality, sweetness and texture, and CMI is receiving rave reviews from customers.
National Rainier Cherry Day
Harvest has started with red varieties that will be followed by Rainier. “With optimal weather conditions this year, Rainier cherries will truly be a Nature’s Candy with exceptional sweetness,” Harter said. There should be ample supply of Rainier cherries for National Rainier Cherry Day on July 11th. Earlier in July, there will be plenty of opportunity for retailers to promote cherries for the 4th of July holiday. CMI has a package to fit all retailers including a 6 oz. snack size cherry pouch bag for snack displays, convenience store formats and grab-and-go snack sections. Organic volume up
This year, CMI Orchard organic cherry volume has greatly increased from last year, for both red varieties as well as Rainier. Organic cherries are sold under the company’s Daisy Girl brand and available in clamshell as well as Ziploc stand-up bags. Both conventional and organic cherries are shipped within the United States and exported to Asia.
“It is so important to promote Red, Rainier and organic cherries to maximize category results and customer satisfaction. The outstanding eating quality this year will generate those much sought after repeat sales. We are looking for this to be an amazing year for retailers and consumers.”For more information:
George Harter
CMI Orchards
Tel: (+1) 509-888-3415