Wenatchee, Wash.-based CMI Orchards is projecting its cherry harvest will continue into late July, says Joel Hewitt, vice president of sales.
Hewitt said complications last year from the overlap with California cherry season and compression of the Northwest cherry crop created a tough year, even though the eating quality of the 2023 cherry crop was outstanding.
“Our cherry season is on track for steady volumes, aligning perfectly with major summer holidays,” Hewitt said. “With fruit size and quality looking promising, we recommend securing POS and product early to capitalize on this lucrative window. Our partners can feel confident in pushing these seasonal delights all summer long!”
Hewitt said he also anticipates strong export demand this season.
Rochelle Bohm, vice president of marketing, said CMI Orchards carries one the largest varietal selection of cherries in the market.
“We have red and rainier cherries in conventional and organic, as well as our branded varieties, Skylar Rae and Strawberry Cherries, as well as our signature cherry program, Nature’s Candy, and our jumbo cherry program, XXL Cherries, guarantee something for every shopper,” Bohm said.
For a long time only red and rainier cherries were offered to consumers, Bohm said.
“Now, specialty cherries are gaining traction, diversifying with high-flavor options like our Skylar Rae and Strawberry cherries,” she said. “Skylar Rae cherries stand out with their dedicated PLU and UPC codes, streamlining sales tracking. Renowned for their supreme sweetness and crunchy texture, they’re eagerly anticipated each season, and quite possibly the best cherries you’ll ever eat!”
Bohm said Strawberry cherries boast a striking appearance with freckled, ruby red exteriors and creamy white interiors.
“Their larger size, a result of lighter tree volume, ensures they stand out prominently on store shelves,” she said. “With a hint of strawberry sweetness, expect a ‘very berry cherry.’”
As the season nears, Bohm said CMI Orchards is thrilled about the promotable volume the marketer will have throughout the summer.
She said the American Dream program enables retailers to create dynamic in-store promotions, generating buzz around upcoming patriotic holidays and boosting sales year-round.
“It’s a cause retailers and shoppers can rally behind, with a portion of proceeds supporting military families and veterans,” Bohm said.
Bohm said CMI Orchards offers a range of options for cherry shoppers: clamshells and pouch bags with several weight options, top seal — which reduces plastic by 30% — or loose, and available with both conventional and organic options.
