Asian markets have preference for Washington’s white flesh stone fruit

Stone fruit harvest at Vanguard Pride is in full swing. “As Washington’s largest single stone fruit grower, this is a busy season,” says Craig Stauffer, CEO of Vanguard International. “We are currently harvesting apricots and harvest of peaches and nectarines starts this week,” he added. For the first time this year, the company offers organic stone fruit. “We will have organic apricots, peaches, and nectarines,” says Brett Calhoun, General Manager of Vanguard Pride. “We are excited to deliver our high-quality organics in response to our customers’ demand.” 

Calhoun expects fruit sizing this year to be a bit larger compared to last year. “The weather during this year’s growing season has been ideal for growing good quality, highly flavorful fruit,” he said. The company anticipates good volumes. 

All Vanguard Pride’s stone fruit is sold through the company’s partner Sage Fruit. “We ship throughout North America, and also have a strong export program to Asia,” shared Calhoun. “Within the US, we have always enjoyed a particularly strong following and high demand from our long-time valued customers on the West Coast,” said Stauffer. In recent years, there has been much more growth east of the Mississippi, as well as significant export growth.

Taiwan has always been a strong market, particularly for the white flesh varieties. In recent years however, Asia as a whole has developed into a strong export market for Vanguard Pride. Asian consumers have a preference for the white flesh varieties of peaches and nectarines. “This fruit flavor profile is best suited to our Asia markets,” commented Stauffer. 

For more information:

Craig Stauffer

Tel: (+1) 425-557-8250

Brett Calhoun

Tel: (+1) 509-877-3836