“It is the Big Apple and we want to represent our state in the best way we can,” said Hacker, who has been with Fowler for six apple-growing seasons. “The New York Produce Show is something we look forward to every year and we are proud to represent our state. It is also an opportunity to highlight the fact that we are a New York grown and certified company and we support all growers in the state.”
This year, Fowler Farms, based in Wolcott, NY, is featuring a new booth at the show and Hacker is confident that the setting will attract even more attendees to get more information and knowledge about the more than 20 varieties that Fowler grows throughout the western part of New York.
“What is really interesting is the fact that consumers from other areas of the country, such as the south and southeast, are becoming more aware of the unique apples we offer and our sales are growing in those areas of the country,” he noted. “I think it is because people from New York are moving to other parts of the country and still want our apples. Once a retailer in those areas carry our product, other consumers try them, love them and want more of them.”
Fowler Farms officials will continue to focus on the quality and flavor of their apples.
Hacker said this season has produced a great crop, with strong colors and finish that always coincides with strong flavors.
“We are always on the watch for more varieties that will encourage more consumers to try our product,” he said. “Even though apple consumption has been relatively flat recently, we are confident that a focus on flavor and varieties will help increase sales from the category over the long run. Our message to our retail partners is to keep carrying a broad selection of product, showcase them in the right location and offer sampling. The bottom line is to get consumers to sample the product. Once they do that, they will keep coming back to that retailer for the product over and over. Consumers love products that taste good.”
He said that the sweet tango and SnapDragon varieties continue to perform exceptionally well.
Noting that SnapDragon is the official apple of the NFL’s Buffalo Bills, he said that getting the word out to consumers about these varieties, and others, is working. “We are a New York company and we support more than 150 growers in the state,” Hacker added.
Because of a shortage of HoneyCrisp apples in Washington state, Hacker says demand for that variety is up in New York. “We have a great crop, with great finish and flavor and we are excited for the opportunity to showcase it to retailers and consumers,” he noted.
Working with retailers is also crucial to the success of the category. “It is so important for retailers to have the right varieties at the right time of the year,” Hacker said. “The apple market is in a constant state of change. Building relationships with retailers will make it easier to adapt and learn where this market is headed.”
