Agronometrics in Charts: Big Washington apple crop presents retailers with big opportunities

Each week, the series ‘Agronometrics In Charts’ looks at a different horticultural commodity, focusing on a specific origin or topic, and visualizing market factors that are driving change. Check out our entire archive.

The Washington apple industry is heading into one of its biggest seasons yet, with harvest underway and strong volumes expected through November. While early projections called for 142 million boxes, many in the industry say the final number will likely fall between 125 and 130 million, as growers focus more on quality than total yield.

“It’s an exciting time of year,” says Kassi Orozco of River Valley Fruit. “We’re picking high-quality fruit that will hit shelves quickly.”

Key varieties like Honeycrisp are rebounding, up nearly 40% from last year. Granny Smith is expected to rise 20%, while Cosmic Crisp now ranks No. 3 nationally, accounting for 12% of the apple category. Organic volumes are also up, with strong supply in Honeycrisp, Autumn Glory, and Cosmic Crisp.

Retailers have plenty of room to promote, especially with the increased availability of smaller fruit that’s ideal for value-driven bag programs. “Most shoppers put ‘apples’ on their list, not specific varieties,” says Catherine Gipe-Stewart of Superfresh Growers. “That opens the door to rotate features and keep the category moving.”

Multi-variety promotions, seasonal tie-ins, and strong merchandising are key strategies this season. “With careful planning and collaboration, this crop is a major opportunity,” says Orozco. “It’s about delivering the best eating experience to customers everywhere.”

Source: USDA Market News via Agronometrics.

(Agronometrics users can view this chart with live updates here)

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