YAKIMA, Wash. – Opal® apple is closing out its fifth season which has been a success with sales and volume increases in the double digits.
Opal has gained momentum nationally and saw a year-over-year sales dollar increase of 65% and a volume increase of 85% during the season. Same-store sales increased in volume with consumers buying more Opal with a longer availability. The popular apple also gained new retail customers which helped to increase the consumer base. Additionally the brand invested in raising consumer awareness, reaching over 1.1 million people through a robust marketing campaign which included sampling, events, and word of mouth marketing.
“We’re delighted with the success of Opal apple this season. Everything we’re doing is coming together as a whole from our consumer promotions to our retail partnerships,” says Keith Mathews, CEO of FirstFruits
Marketing of Washington. “We’re looking forward to another great season!”
Grown in Washington by Broetje Orchards, Opal apples are sold exclusively in North America by FirstFruits Marketing. This cross between Topaz and Golden Delicious stands out on the shelf with its lovely yellow color and great taste. Sweet to start with a tart finish, Opal has a satisfying amount of crunch in each bite. And to the delight of consumers, Opal is non-GMO and naturally resists browning after slicing. Available in limited quantities, Opal made its first appearance this season in November. More information about Opal apples can be found at www.opalapples.com.
About FirstFruits Marketing of Washington
FirstFruits Marketing is a collaborative apple marketing company owned by growers. These growers share a commitment to producing high-quality fruit while balancing the demands of purpose, people, planet, and profit so that a portion of profits can be donated to non-profit missions supporting the underserved. For more Information, visit www.firstfruits.com.
About Opal Apple
Opal® apple is known as the apple with a purpose. Grown only in Washington by Broetje Orchards, this Golden Delicious-Topaz cross apple variety was introduced by FirstFruits Marketing in 2010 to wide consumer and media acclaim. Its distinctive color, flavor and texture are not the only qualities that make this product unique: Opal apple was created to make a difference in communities across the nation. Every year, FirstFruits Marketing donates a percentage of sales of every case of apples to worthy organizations that address issues like hunger, food safety, sustainability, and the environment. UEB 32642 variety apples are grown exclusively by Broetje Orchards and distributed under the OPAL® brand name by First Fruits Marketing in North America.
Source: FirstFruits Marketing of Washington