Suppliers share optimism about Northwest cherries

In a survey of Northwest cherry shippers, The Packer asked suppliers for their reasons for optimism for the 2021 Northwest cherry season.

Here are their replies:

“2020 taught us that the world loves Northwest cherries and seeks them out as an affordable luxury. The demand was high, and dollars were up, despite less volume than expected in June. Consumers are experiencing a strong California season which is setting the Northwest up well for good demand.
— Catherine Gipe-Stewart, communications manager for Domex Superfresh Growers, Yakima, Wash.

“Cherries are always a summer favorite and one of the only produce items with pent-up demand.”
— Mac Riggan, director of marketing for Chelan Fresh, Chelan, Wash.

“Because we get to build upon last year’s success of delighting consumers with world famous cherries. There is a lot of pent-up demand for cherries, so we are ready for the busy season ahead.”
— Brianna Shales, director of marketing for Stemilt Growers, Wenatchee, Wash.

“Spring always bring optimism for us.  New beginnings and hope abound for the upcoming crops.”
— Dan Davis, director of business development for Oneonta Starr Ranch Growers

“(There is) still an extra 20% of U.S. consumers using grocery as their primary food source.   Consumers looking for healthy foods to supplement their diets.”
— B.J. Thurlby, president of Northwest Cherry Growers, Yakima, Wash.

“It’s a blank slate, a fresh start. We look forward to the fast pace of a new season.”
— Chuck Sinks, president of sales and marketing for Yakima, Wash.-based Sage Fruit

“We’ve experienced indications of huge demand from our partners.”
— Ray Norwood, director of sales and marketing for Auvil Fruit, Orondo, Wash.

“We expect a phenomenal crop and we’re looking forward to giving our customers a great experience this year with outstanding Northwest cherries.”
— George Harter, vice president of marketing for CMI Orchards, Wenatchee, Wash.

“I’m always optimistic. Every retail meeting is filled with excitement over cherry season, and that makes you feel really good.”
— Jon Bailey, director of the cherry category for the Oppenheimer Group, Vancouver, British Columbia.

Related:
Cherries: 2020 rewind and 2021 marketing outlook
Northwest cherry growers look for strong crop
Cherry suppliers report greater demand for fixed-weight packaging