Belding, Mich.-based BelleHarvest Sales Inc. is promoting higher-end, high-flavor varieties like SweeTango, Smitten and Honeycrisp, says Casey Jarrard, vice president of sales.
BelleHarvest, one of Michigan’s oldest grower-owned distributors of fresh apples, offers a robust year-round program of conventional traditional and high-flavor varieties, he said.
“The overall quality and volume coming out of Michigan has been exceptional compared to other areas of the U.S. that are affected by tumultuous weather patterns,” Jarrard said. “In addition, it has been great to show that Michigan apples are high-profile in terms of taste, quality and consistent sizing.”
To get the most of the 2022-23 season, Jarrard said retailers can spotlight traditional varieties throughout the next few months. In addition, retailers can continue to keep a good variety profile to appeal to the varying consumer, he said.
Jarrard said BelleHarvest is continuing to innovate with apple packaging.
“We are innovating the apple category with the launch of our sustainable apple boxes,” Jarrard said. “The boxes are 100% recyclable and are optimized for e-commerce sales and in-store merchandising. We currently offer sustainable boxes for Honeycrisp, gala, and fuji but are expanding into our other high-flavor varieties this year.”
