Rivermaid says California Cherries could pair with fourth of July Fireworks
This season, Rivermaid Trading is drawing attention to its California Cherries, backed by the same quality assurance as the state’s No.1 grower-shipper of its renowned California Pears. Kyle Persky, sales manager at Rivermaid said, “We had good chill and good conditions — all of those things set us up for some really high-quality eating fruit.”
Rivermaid is planning to kick off its cherry season at the end of April, with a modest supply from its Patterson region and certain Kingsburg orchards. Persky pointed out, “volume will be very limited during our start-up phase, likely extending through the first week of May.” However, Rivermaid expects to have a solid supply by the second week of May, preparing for their Memorial Day push.
Persky praised the prospects of the upcoming season in light of last year’s challenging yield, “The 2022 timing was all bunched up, forcing everyone to play it conservative, even so we were able deliver on our typical California promotions.” Those big promotional windows being Memorial Day and Father’s Day. As for 2023, Persky said, “This year — it’s crazy to say it — but I think California is going to have to support more of the Fourth of July,” referencing reports out of the Northwest that Washington’s timing will also be delayed.
Delayed but promotable is the story across the board and confirmed by Rivermaid. Persky said, “everyone is behind, that’s what Mother Nature gave us, but our quality looks great, and the volume will pick up as we get into mid-May.”
Worth highlighting, Rivermaid has bolstered its grower-group with the recent additions of Tony Yasuda (and his group of growers) and Luke Workman, two seasoned cherry growers. “Their experience, knowledge and front-half volume will be instrumental in reaching Rivermaid’s goal of increased market share for season to come,” said Persky. With these two on board, Rivermaid is well-positioned for continued success and leading reputation atop the California Cherry industry.
Kyle Eberth
About Kyle Eberth | 
Kyle Eberth is new to the produce industry, but has grown up around it, in proclaimed "Apple Capitol of the World," Wenatchee, WA. For the past 14-years he has worked in the non-profit sector with an emphasis on brand storytelling, community engagement, and donor relationships.
Kyle graduated from Whitworth University (Spokane, WA) in 2007. He and wife Kelsey were married shortly thereafter, when they moved to Wenatchee to launch their careers. Kyle is "Dad" to Brooklyn and Hudson, together the Eberths enjoy skiing, biking, their family and friends, and playing together in the beautiful place they get to live.
