North Bay Produce prepares for exciting apple crop ahead

North Bay Produce is a cooperative of more than 31 grower-owners from North, Central and South America. Though originally started as an apple company, it has since expanded to a plethora of fresh fruits and vegetables year-round.

Still, apples make up a significant amount of what the company deals with.

“The most exciting update for North Bay this upcoming season is that we have great Michigan apple growers with a high-quality crop, and we will have the sheds cleaned up when the new crop is ready,” said Ken Korson, apple category manager for the Traverse City, MI-based company.

In his role, Korson oversees seven packingsheds and provides guidance on packing to meet North Bay’s customers’ needs and preferences throughout the season.

“Michigan Apples play a significant role with North Bay due to the state’s substantial growth potential in the apple category, driven by new high-density planting and a year-round supply,” Korson said. “My role involves coordinating efforts between growers and packingsheds to meet customer demands and surpass their expectations, aiming to foster continued growth. Michigan’s apple category has experienced double-digit sales growth over the past five years, and its potential for further expansion remains promising over the next five years.”

Over the years, the apple industry has advanced with new packing lines and technology to pack higher quality apples for North Bay’s customers year-round. Additionally, technology has improved sales forecasting programs, helping the sales staff grow Michigan apple sales.

“Effective and seamless communication is essential for the successful movement of the crop each year, requiring collaboration between growers, packing sheds, sales offices and other apple companies,” Korson said. “To transport the apple crop, you must engage with customers at all levels, including retail, wholesale and foodservice. It’s important to establish strong relationships by delivering on your promises and meeting your customers’ needs.”

In 2023, North Bay enjoyed one of its best years with a large crop of apples.

“We were able to get ahead of the crop early and maintain strong movement throughout the season,” Korson said. “North Bay is well ahead of most of the industry because we will transition into next season in a couple of weeks with no carryover, which will provide our customers with a better eating experience.”

Honeycrisp and Galas remain among the popular apple choices, though Evercrisp is becoming increasingly popular as well.

The upcoming season’s crop looks promising due to excellent growing weather, resulting in excellent size and quality so far.

“Additionally, we are about 10 days ahead of schedule as the season begins with some of our early varieties,” Korson said. “Our biggest opportunity this year is to grow our retail presence and continue expanding our export business. Although inflation has affected all areas in the stores, apples have remained a good value. Apples are one commodity that is still very affordable and in demand. I suggest building large displays at the front of the stores to increase impulse apple sales.”