Oppy announced a new crop of Envy apples is coming from New Zealand at the beginning of August, then crops will begin coming from Chile and South Africa in the following weeks. This Southern Hemisphere sourcing will ensure a seamless transition from the Washington season and an uninterrupted supply of one of the most popular apple varieties, the company says.
“Strategic alignment with our international partners has enabled us to execute a smooth and efficient transition between growing regions,” says Roger Aguirre, director of apples and pears. “Oppy has marketed New Zealand products since the 1950s. These decades of connectedness have positioned us as a trusted bridge to the Kiwi nation’s premium pipfruit in the North American market.”
Piers Hanbury, executive director of apples, pears and category development, says: “The transition this year has been especially smooth. From growing conditions to logistics, the Southern Hemisphere crop positions us to keep pace with growing demand. Envy continues to outperform other proprietary varieties, and we’re well prepared to support retail programs all summer long.”
Demand for Envy apples continues to rise, the company says, with two in five Envy shoppers being new to the variety within the past year. Consumers are highly engaged, spending 1.8 times more than the average apple shopper, and loyal, with units per trip ranking second among all branded apples.
Hanbury notes, “Everything is in place to ensure no gaps in availability, providing our retail partners with consistent supply and shoppers with the crisp, sweet Envy experience they expect.”
Oppy says its marketing support and countrywide supply chain ensure a reliable source of Envy apples year-round to retail partners. It also offers a wide range of fresh apple varieties including Jazz, ambrosia, braeburn, Smitten, royal gala, fuji, granny smith and Pink Lady.
“Our year-round program is built on the foundation of delivering the very best eating experience, and it’s what our retail partners can continue to count on from Oppy,” Aguirre says.
