Stemilt-O-Graphic Looks At January Apple Category Performance

WENATCHEE, Wash. – Stemilt Growers’ FruitTracker category management program has released a new Stemilt-O-Graphic that provides insight into apple category performance across the U.S. for four weeks in January 2015, and compares it to the same timeframe the year prior.

The apple category’s contribution to the total produce department was 6.7%, which was down from 7.2% the year prior. Average weekly volume was down slightly from 2,172 lbs. to 2,096 lbs.  Average weekly dollars also saw a dip year-over-year (from $3,346 in 2014 to $3,244 in 2015), due somewhat to lower retail prices. Gala led all varieties with 25.7% of sales, followed by Red Delicious, Fuji, Granny Smith, and Honeycrisp. Bulk apples made up 63.4% of pounds sold with an average retail price per pound of $1.68.

“The record crop of high-quality apples gives retailers lots of opportunities for creative promotions to drive sales and dollars to this important category in produce. Spring is coming and with it comes some of the best apples all year. Plan promotions now to ensure your apple category far exceeds the U.S. average in the coming months,” said Stemilt marketing director Roger Pepperl.

About Stemilt

Stemilt Growers is a leading tree fruit growing, packing and shipping company based in Wenatchee, Washington. Owned and operated by the Mathison family, Stemilt is the leading shipper of sweet cherries and one of the nation’s largest suppliers of organic tree fruits. Stemilt has also demonstrated a commitment to sustainable agriculture and social responsibility since 1989, when founder Tom Mathison launched the company’s Responsible Choice program. For more information about Stemilt, visit www.stemilt.com and follow Stemilt on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, and You Tube.

Source: Stemilt Growers