Honeybear Brands touts the arrival of First Kiss apple

Elgin, Minn.-based Honeybear Brands reports that its First Kiss early apple variety will be available Aug. 28.

First Kiss is produced in Minnesota and has quickly become a fan favorite since it was introduced in 2021, according to a news release.

 “As with any new variety, it takes a while to increase volume,” Don Roper, vice president of sales and marketing for Honeybear Brands, said in the release. “We’re excited to see a much larger supply of First Kiss this season. While it sells out every year, we’re hopeful that more apples mean more shoppers get to enjoy this tasty variety.”

First Kiss will be available from Minnesota on Aug. 28, providing retailers with an opportunity to kick off fresh apple season and drive sales a few weeks earlier than some of the other key varieties, Roper said.

First Kiss was developed through the University of Minnesota’s apple breeding program and is a result of crossing Honeycrisp with an early ripening apple (AA-44), the release said. The variety has the juicy full flavor of a Honeycrisp with a refreshing tartness, according to the release.

The branding of the First Kiss apple has a 70s playful vibe reminiscent of a carefree era, the release said. Bright pink boxes with smacking red lips make an impressive and inviting display in the produce department, the Honeybear Brands executives said in the release.    

“We took the opportunity to have some fun with this brand,” Kristi Harris, Honeybear Brands brand manager, said in the release. “Perhaps it triggers a fond memory of a first kiss or a coming-of-age story that everybody can relate to.”