CASHMERE, Wash. – June 24, 2010 – Crunch Pak® will acquire the existing business and lease the facility of Apple Sweets through a long term arrangement with Stemilt Growers.
“With Stemilt being one of the premier growers/packers in the U.S., especially after their acquisition of Dovex Fruit Company in recent months, Crunch Pak®’s existing supplier base will be strengthened significantly through this endeavor,” said Tony Freytag, national marketing director for Crunch Pak®. There is no change or altering of ownership of Crunch Pak due to this transaction.
Nearly all of Apple Sweets team members will be re-assigned to positions within the Stemilt organization.
Stemilt Marketing Director Roger Pepperl said, “Though Crunch Pak®’s product mix is more extensive, it is generally consistent with Apple Sweets. Customers of Apple Sweets should experience a smooth and beneficial transition to Crunch Pak®. Additionally, this transaction should add value to the Stemilt growers and give a better return to the land.”
Stemilt will provide Crunch Pak® with whole apples for the Crunch Pak slicing operation. Berry, caramel and apple pie flavored sliced apples, formerly offered by Apple Sweets, will not be available from Crunch Pak® at this time.
“The Apple Sweets facility will provide much needed room to build our specialty products and grow our research and development,” said Freytag. “Sliced apple sales were steady in 2009, and Crunch Pak® sales are up more than 20 percent for 2010. The supply from Stemilt will help us meet the growing consumer demand.”
Source: Crunk Pak