Keystone is ready for autumn apples

Apples and autumn go hand in hand, and Keystone Fruit Marketing has been all about apples dating back to 1977.

"Apples were the first commodity Keystone took to market," said Lisa Fetterhoff, director of operations. "And the first grower they worked with, El Vista Orchards in Fairfield, PA, is still a grower partner today!"

Currently, Keystone partners with many growers from Pennsylvania, Virginia, West Virginia, New York, Michigan and New England to ensure a wide variety of apples and fulfill its customers' needs.

"We get started every year in August with Ginger Golds, which are quickly followed by Gala, Honeycrisp, and Macs. We also have an ample supply of Red and Gold Delicious, Ambrosia, Romes, Fuji, Evercrisp, and Pink Lady. Plenty of options for everyone," said Fetterhoff.

Eastern Apples are always in high demand in the fall as well as the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays — and don't forget about January, when so many people want to start eating better. These are all great times to promote, as Keystone will have peak supply from November through January.

"Retailers should offer their consumers options with bags and loose apples. If space is tight, occasionally switch up the apple varieties to keep things fresh and exciting," said Fetterhoff. "Want to boost sales even more? Pair apples with specialty cheeses in the deli department or feature a small apple display near checkout for those looking for a healthy, on-the-go snack."

Keystone said it values its relationships with its growers and customers and prides itself on the integrity it carries through all those relationships. "Getting our growers' apples into our retailer partners' stores so consumers can enjoy high-quality Eastern Apples is what we love to do," said Fetterhoff.