The 2020 apple season was a mixed bag of experiences as the domestic production in Washington state was down approximately 15 percent from the previous year, which prompted pricing on mainline varietals to move up with the shorter crop.  Regionally, club varieties had a strong season in both volume and quality. With the price compression on domestic varieties, regional club varieties were competitively priced yet offered more desirable eating experiences compared to standard varieties.  

The U.S. Apple Association announced its class of 2021 Young Apple Leaders. Fifteen accomplished and aspiring young women and men were selected by the organization to join with, and learn from, USApple leaders and mentors throughout the year.
 
The 2021 Young Apple Leaders are:

Honeybear Brands, a leading grower and developer of premium apple varieties, is partnering with Midwest grocery retailer Hy-Vee to help families improve their health and wellness this winter. Hy-Vee’s KidsFit virtual program that educates parents and children through a free online challenge, e-newsletter and app, will be featured in more than 200 stores January 1-February 29. Honeybear Brands’ premium apple Pazazz™ will support KidsFit with a special apple promotion through February.

T&G’s innovative Jazz apple campaigns are making the brand a top-10 category performer in North America, while delighting consumers with healthy snacks and meals. The apple’s latest Nielsen update highlights year-over-year dollars at a 15 percent increase and year-over-year pounds at increasing 8 percent.

Angie Hanson, Oppy and T&G North America national brand activation manager, said this strong growth has been driven by innovative campaigns, like its latest Super Bowl/Game Day partnership with top chef Joel Gamoran.

Applewood Fresh, a premier produce brand and fourth-generation grower-packer-shipper-marketer of Michigan-grown apples, is shipping EverCrisp apples. The variety expands its availability this year as a late-season, sweet apple that packs a superior crunch.

December was a very strong month for apples and pears, which were up 7 percent and 12 percent in dollar sales, respectively. Double-digit organic growth in both categories, combined with strong showings by core and emerging apple varieties, drove the great results.