Superfresh Growers charts apple growth in new retail reality

Apples, and more specifically, bagged apples, are seeing a boost in demand as consumers try to limit time spent on shopping trips.

In the four weeks ending March 21, packaged apple sales rose 34% in volume, according to Domex Superfresh Growers, Yakima Wash.

“As consumers hunker down, they are turning to apples, which are not only a staple, but juicy, nutritious and kid-friendly,” according to a Superfresh Growers news release. “They are also readily available and easy to handle along the whole supply chain.”

Apples are up 22.3% in volume and 13.6% in dollar sales year-over-year for the four weeks ending March 22, with galas representing 28% of all apple volume. Honeycrisp led the apple sales in dollars, with 26% of the entire category, according to the news release.

Bagged apple sales were up 25% in dollars and 34% in volume. Gala, fuji and Honeycrisps led the bagged category in terms of volume, according to Superfresh Growers.

Organic apples also saw a boost, with an increase in 22% in sales and 34% volume.

Apples and pears are easy for grocery operations in these challenging times,” according to the release. “Superfresh Growers has multiple display options including floor bins and display-ready cartons that make life easier on produce department and supply chain operations staff.”

For more COVID-19 news, see The Packer’s coronavirus updates page.

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