The New Zealand apple crop has landed, and retailers and shoppers should expect fresh, large and exceptionally flavorful apples to hit stores in June, enabling high-quality, year-round apple programs from T&G Global.Vancouver, BC-based Oppy, will manage T&G’s full apple basket, now through early fall. Brand volumes are considerably up this season, with Envy cases up 35 percent and Jazz up 13 percent.
“Oppy is particularly excited about the opportunities this season offers. We’ve been marketing New Zealand apples since the 1950s and are now approaching one of the most unique summer markets, historically,” said Karin Gardner, executive director of marketing. “We think fresh-crop Envy and Jazz, more than ever, will deliver on shopper needs due to their high quality and consistency.
“Research indicates shoppers want a great-tasting apple year-round, and particularly with what’s happening in the world, a sense of nostalgia and comfort, refreshment and value in their eating experiences this summer. If biting into a Jazz while walking in the park or slicing up an Envy while reading a book at home, doesn’t say comfort, enjoyment and vitality — I’m not sure what does.”
Indeed, Envy and Jazz are driven by strong shopper insights, as June approaches:
Envy – YOY dollars are up 30 percent and pounds up 34 percent — with 19 percent distribution growth — according to Nielsen scan data (last 52 weeks, ending April 30, 2020). Envy is preferred for its sweetness, juiciness and overall appearance.
Jazz – Recent shopper research indicates 87 percent of respondents like the flavor of Jazz, with 49 percent marking it as “excellent.” A separate research set indicated Jazz is ideal for its snacking attributes, according to 75 percent of respondents. Jazz is favored for its tangy/sweet flavor and overall snackability.
