Envy™, the New Zealand-born varietal with year-round production in Washington, Chile, Europe and New Zealand, is set to increase its 2019/2020 domestic conventional volume by nearly 40 percent versus last year, with organics growing by more than 50 percent, growers say.
Producers of the crop are promising a high-quality apple due to a mild Washington summer which placed little stress on the fruit, following a cold spring. They are also expecting a smaller size profile. As a result, New Zealand-based T&G Global, the owners of the seed and brand, and its North American sales agents – Oppy, CMI Orchards and Rainier Fruit Co. – are feeling optimistic about the season.
“The growing season finished well, and harvest is underway; so far, the fruit coming off the trees looks excellent and should enable a smooth transition from a strong NZ import season,” said Chris Willett, general manager at EnzaFruit Products, Inc., T&G’s Wenatchee, Washington-based branch.
“We feel Envy demand – customer and consumer – has escalated during the last few years, and our research helped confirm it rises to the always evolving shopper preference; a unique sweet/tart balance, firm and juicy texture and beautiful white, interior flesh.”
Vancouver, British Columbia-based Oppy said it is enthusiastic about partnering with customers.
“As always, there’s great anticipation among our customers for the fresh-crop Enza varieties,” said Roger Aguirre, Oppy’s apple category director. “Envy™ continues to shine, and provide clarity, as a category driver in the crowded apple set. It is the No. 2 apple in the category for YOY-dollar-and-volume gains, with only near 5 percent of the premium apples segment. We believe it can perform even better with consistent placement and the exciting, customer promotions planned for the season.”
Suppliers of Jazz™ say this variety is also making strides this season, particularly organically. Jazz’s growth is organic driven, at 60 percent versus last season, and should be available now through March. The variety traditionally sizes smaller, and this season is no different. Producers say bagged programs will be prevalent and can be customized for the trade.
Meanwhile Pacific Rose™, which is a large, pink- skinned, sweet apple rounds out the T&G portfolio from Washington.
For more information:
www.tandg.global