CMI Orchards said compelling new data showcased the excellent performance of Washington-grown. Results from an April study conducted in partnership with Category Partners show consumer test groups had rave reviews for EverCrisp in blind taste testing with one of its legacy varieties, Fuji.

“Results showed 90 percent of participants favored EverCrisp, with 18 out of 20 consumers preferring its flavor and texture," said Rochelle Bohm, vice president of marketing at CMI Orchards. "We knew EverCrisp would shine, though we didn’t expect such overwhelming evidence in support of targeting sweet apple buyers to drive trial of EverCrisp.”

Bohm shared that CMI has custom tools retailers can use to lure consumers to trial new flavors, including a “Like Fuji? You’ll LOVE EverCrisp” signage campaign.

With parentage from two consumer favorites — the super crunchy Honeycrisp and the super sweet Fuji — Bohm said the data highlights a significant opportunity for retailers to capture incremental dollars and earn repeat rings with EverCrisp. “The highly rated sweetness and juiciness of EverCrisp make it a standout choice. The study results showed that it scored 31 percent ahead in flavor and rated 19 percent better in texture, confirming its status as an ideal upsell item,” said Bohm.

“EverCrisp is one of the sweetest and juiciest varieties we grow, and its long shelf life prolongs freshness, reducing waste and maximizing sales — offering both excellent flavor for shoppers and practical benefits for retailers,” said Loren Foss, vice president of business strategy.

Foss further explained that the study revealed most consumers are eager to try new apples, but often need incentives such as pricing promotions or engaging displays. “The demand for high-flavor apples remains strong, making EverCrisp a prime candidate for premium placement in stores,” he said. “EverCrisp apples received a 71 percent approval rating for flavor and an 87 percent approval rating for texture, highlighting the opportunity to trade shoppers up from core to premium branded apples to capture those higher rings at the register.”

Foss added that additional promotional tactics, like sales contests — with rewards ranging from cash prizes to trips to Washington state — reward top sales performance and can be customized for each participating store.

Washington-grown EverCrisp apples benefit from optimal growing conditions. The Columbia River nourishes orchard soil with rich glacial minerals, while less than a foot of rain per year naturally reduces orchard sprays due to the low moisture levels which helps keep pests and fungus levels low.

“We're excited to partner with retailers to showcase the exceptional quality of EverCrisp,” said Bohm. "With its delicious flavor, long shelf life, and the Washington advantage, EverCrisp is the perfect apple to boost your sales and satisfy your customers.”