Demand surging for specialty organic apples
The fast-approaching new year is the perfect time for retailers to refresh their produce aisles and captivate shoppers with high-flavor branded organic apples poised for further record-breaking growth in 2025.
“CMI’s lineup of branded organic apples elevates the shopping experience while driving measurable sales growth,” said Joel Hewitt, vice president of sales at CMI Orchards. “High-flavor organics offer a powerful fourth tier of selling, surpassing core organic, and conventional core and branded options, positioning retailers for success at every buying stage — from capturing incremental sales to creating repeat customers.”
The success of the branded organic apple category is undeniable, with NielsenIQ data over the latest 52-week period ending Nov. 2 showing a remarkable 47 percent growth in sales and a 45 percent increase in volume. This surge stands in stark contrast to core organics, which saw sales decline nearly 6 percent despite a modest 7 percent rise in volume. The average price per pound for branded organics, at $2.93, significantly outpaces the $2.18 per pound for core organic varieties (excluding Honeycrisp).
“These numbers underscore a key point: consumers are willing to pay a premium for higher-flavor, specialty options,” said Danelle Huber, senior marketing manager, “and when shoppers demand more, branded organics deliver.”
The report indicates several branded organics leading the pack: Ambrosia Gold increased 184 percent in sales and nearly 21 percent in volume, Cosmic Crisp rose 60 percent in sales and 62 percent in volume, SugarBee surged by 187 percent in sales and 214 percent in volume and Envy continued to gain momentum with a slight increase in sales and nearly 14 percent in volume.
“Branded organics aren’t just a trend or seasonal fad," said Huber. "The rise of specialty organics demonstrates a growing commitment to high-quality organic produce that meets consumer expectations for flavor and freshness.”
She said CMI makes selling these premium options both effortless and effective thanks to custom omnichannel marketing tools — including digital assets and interactive QR codes on packaging. “We’re in the business of growing more than fruit — we help our retail partners grow their category,” said Huber.
CMI’s branded organic offerings, designed to enhance the category assortment, feature crowd favorites like Envy, Cosmic Crisp, Ambrosia Gold, Jazz, KIKU, EverCrisp, SugarBee and Kanzi. Hewitt said CMI’s expansive portfolio also includes core apples like Gala, Fuji, Granny Smith, Honeycrisp and Pink Lady, plus Bosc, Bartlett, D’Anjou and red pears.
“Consumers want more than just fruit — they want an experience,” said Hewitt. “Bold investments in high-flavor organics, cutting-edge marketing strategies, strong assortment and a steadfast commitment to excellence in sustainability and regenerative farming practices — that’s the CMI secret sauce.”
