“They are an integral part of our past, present and future,” said Jennifer L. Miller, executive director of the cooperative of dedicated growers at orchards from Nova Scotia to Washington state. “It is important to highlight the great growing conditions that make up the East. Apples from the East are some of the most flavorful and delicious in the U.S.”

Eastern SweeTango make up more than half of Next Big Thing’s supply in the U.S. and Canada, so they are a very important segment to the growth and future of the cooperative.

“Over the past 40 years, managed varieties have been growing at a rapid rate,” Miller said. “Innovation is great for the apple category, and many varieties have proved to be successful leaders of the category. We need to ensure that store merchandising is evolving with the changes in innovative products, especially within the produce category. Getting customers educated about the differences and selling points is more important now than ever.”

Next Big Thing experienced one of its largest crops last year, especially for SweeTango in terms of volume. Things look equally strong for 2025.

“The SweeTango crop is looking great,” Miller said. “We have had hot weather, both dry and rain events, but for the most part growing conditions have been very favorable for a great crop. We will be slightly up in volume this year. Our season starts the first part of September and usually lasts until May/June.”

Next Big Thing’s partners work together to ensure that it has balanced distribution throughout the U.S. and Eastern Canada.

“We continue to strive to bring the best quality in apples around,” Miller said. “We strive to have the best quality standards in the industry which means a better eating experience for all consumers.”

The cooperative’s biggest opportunities for growth are to reach more customers for a longer period of time, she added.

“SweeTango has staying power and a strong consumer following,” Miller said. “Extending the season is in the cards for retailers who want return visits and satisfied customers.”

In recent years, the apple category has vastly changed and Miller believes it would help the category if the industry changed the way that apples are merchandised in store, suggesting there are better ways to share the education and additional differences between each variety.

“It can be a complicated story to tell especially when most varieties look very similar,” she said.

Thankfully, Next Big Thing has relationships with numerous major retailers and their support has made SweeTango a fan favorite among consumers and retailers alike.

“It is successful partnerships that help SweeTango stand out in a crowded market,” Miller said. “We strive to grow the best of the best in the apple category to help improve customer awareness and acceptance of apples.”