Fowler Farms sees great quality apples coming out of storage
Fowler Farms sees great quality apples coming out of storage
Fowler Farms is entering 2026 with confidence, exceptional fruit quality and a continued commitment to innovation, building on a legacy that stretches back more than six generations in apples.
As one of the East Coast’s leading grower-packer-shippers, the company is known for its expansive varietal program, strong retailer relationships and this year, the team believes they have some of their best fruit in years.
“We have very good holdings from the 2025 crop, and it’s some of the best-quality fruit we’ve had coming out of storage in recent years,” said Austin Fowler, a co-owner of the Wolcott, NY-based company. “Everything is remarkably consistent with how it looked in the fall. The flavor is outstanding. the starches have converted farther into sugars, and the fruit is sweet and firm.”
Since the national apple crop estimates heading into the fall were higher than reality, in 2026, growers across multiple regions are recognizing that the crop is not as large as initially projected.
“That may bring improved pricing stability and increased sustainability for growers after several challenging years,” Fowler said. “The industry needs healthier pricing to support long-term viability, and a tighter crop could help rebalance the market.”
Fowler described 2025 as “an excellent year for the company,” with better-than-average packouts and strong fruit quality across their two dozen varieties.
Fowler Farms continues to lean heavily into premium varieties that resonate with consumers.
“Honeycrisp remains the category driver, though its unpredictable nature in pricing and quality keeps growers and retailers closely aligned,” Fowler said. “The trust between supplier and retailer is more important than ever, given the wide range of grades and quality that Honeycrisp can deliver.”
Beyond Honeycrisp, Fowler Farms is seeing strong performance from the managed varieties in its portfolio. SweeTango has had a standout season, with several retailers expanding their support and achieving great results. Snapdragon is also continuing to gain traction, particularly in the company’s home region, where its connection as the official apple of the Buffalo Bills has helped boost consumer interest.
Customer relationships remain central to the Fowler Farms identity.
“Our biggest strength is the trust it has built over six generations,” Fowler said. “The ownership and management team work side-by-side with employees daily, overseeing what goes into every box. That personal stewardship is what differentiates us from larger, more industrialized operations.”
Fowler Farms remains committed to working with customers that value quality, consistency and the integrity behind the brand.
A major milestone for the company heading into 2026 is the completion of a new controlled-atmosphere storage facility.
The system features the latest dynamic CA technology and advanced automation designed to protect fruit quality and extend shelf life.
Fowler noted the investment is significant but necessary to maintain the high standards the company sets for its apples.
“Even incremental improvements in storage technology can make a noticeable difference once the fruit reaches consumers, and we view this investment as essential to maintaining leadership in the industry,” he said.
Looking ahead, Fowler Farms is preparing for a busy year of trade shows, retail visits and merchandising support.
“Our team looks forward to connecting with customers throughout the offseason and helping retailers maximize results in the apple category,” Fowler said.
Fowler Farms is well positioned to continue delivering exceptional apples and advancing the East Coast category in 2026 and beyond.
