Sun World International recently took to New York City to officially debut its AutumnCrisp brand grapes’ global consumer marketing campaign. The results: overwhelming enthusiasm and the birth of a viral grape sensation.

The first shipments of Chilean grapes are scheduled for mid-November, and the Table Grape Committee of the Chilean Fruit Exporters Association is projecting a 5 percent growth in exports.

The committee is forecasting 63.78 million 18-pound boxes. “This projected growth is due primarily to an increase in the production of new varieties, which will represent 63 percent of Chile’s total fresh grape exports this season, close to 40 million boxes,” said ASOEX President Iván Marambio.

Sierra Produce, an importer, marketer and shipper of fresh fruit from around the world, will market its upcoming imported grape crop under a new label, SunLink.

Hurricane Hilary delivered wind and rain to many of California’s table grape vineyards at peak harvest time for most of the 90 varieties grown in the state. The immediate aftermath of the hurricane brought additional rain and humidity to many growing areas, compounding problems and loss.

“The impact of the hurricane and its aftermath is devastating and heartbreaking,” said Kathleen Nave, president of the California Table Grape Commission. “To say that the grower and farmworker community is in shock is an understatement.”

In the fall, Del Monte’s focus shifts to a range of fall produce, with butternut squash taking center stage as a popular item.

“Alongside this, we curate an array of soup starters and mirepoix, aligning with the comforting flavors of the season,” said Kirk Teske, the company’s vice president of fresh-cut sales and operations for North America. “Interestingly, our cut fruit line has become a year-round offering, even when faced with cooler weather. Despite the chill, our sales continue to thrive.”

Sun World International LLC launched a first-of-its-kind global marketing campaign for Autumncrisp brand green seedless grapes. The fully integrated campaign — expected to be the largest-ever for a branded grape — aims to raise retail and consumer awareness and stimulate demand for these unique branded grapes.