It's no secret that the US apple crop is abundant this season and stocks are significantly higher compared to previous years. "On the upside however, fruit condition is holding up very well," says to Dan Davis with Washington Fruit Growers. This offers retailers an opportunity to stay in the domestic market through the summer months and promote Washington grown fruit. Typically, many retail partners start shifting to import programs this time of year, but Davis is hopeful retailers will continue to promote domestic fruit until the new apple season starts in the Fall. It wouldn't require much of a change for Washington Fruit Growers as the company has always had a strong domestic focus with 365 days domestic supply, even prior to this season.
Gala moving well
Despite an abundant supply overall, supply of some varieties is more balanced than others. Gala for instance isn't seeing as high of an uptick and volumes are moving at a good pace. "Gala is a success story this season," commented Davis. "In addition to an appropriate supply, Gala has become a staple in every produce department. It is the Go-To apple variety."
Increase in exports
Good fruit quality also offers opportunities to sell the fruit outside the country, which typically requires a longer transit time. "For some varieties, we're seeing successes outside the U.S. market," Davis shared. Red Delicious is able to access India again due to a tariff reduction and this will help move volumes going forward. This variety is also popular in Mexico while Taiwan is a big fan of Fuji apples. All varieties considered; the US is witnessing a dramatic increase in exports this year. While it is not a fair year-over-year comparison due to last year's short crop, it is a very positive development in light of the volume that needs to be moved. Washington has always been a strong exporter of apples and over the years, the state has built a solid reputation that proves to be invaluable this year.
For the second half of the apple season, Washington Fruit Growers will be focusing on maintaining the pace that fruit is currently moving at as well as maintaining the shelf space of domestically grown apples. "We will collaborate with our retail partners on continuing to promote the domestic crop." Next month, the trees will start to bloom, and the industry will have a better idea of how early or late the new crop will be. "That will tell us how much we need to push the current crop."
For more information:
Dan Davis
Washington Fruit Growers
Tel: (+1) 509.961.1919
ddavis@washfruit.com
www.washfruitgrowers.com