Washington
The merger expands the opportunity and scope of both companies to serve their unique customer base, while also working together with the customers the two companies share coast to coast.
Wenatchee, Wash.-based CMI Orchards is projecting its cherry harvest will continue into late July, says Joel Hewitt, vice president of sales.
Last year’s cherry crop was difficult because of an overlap in California and Washington and compressed harvest windows in Washington, but the 2024 crop is different, says Brianna Shales, Stemilt marketing director.
The Northwest cherry crop for Sage Fruit is wide-ranging across Northwest growing regions and high-flying in quality expectations.
The Washington cherry crop could be a bit short of earlier expectations, but retailers should have plenty of fruit to promote this summer, says Mac Riggan, Chelan Fresh vice president of sales and business development.
Recent Shelby Report market data reveals the top retailers by market share in each region of the United States.
A threat to honey bees and other pollinators, the so-called “murder hornet” was originally found in Washington state in fall 2019.
“Consumers are willing to pay a premium for higher-flavor, specialty options, and when shoppers demand more, branded organics deliver,” said Danelle Huber, senior marketing manager.
With a projected Honeycrisp shortfall, retailers have a good opportunity to diversify offerings, said Joel Hewitt, CMI Orchards vice president of sales.