New Study Reveals EverCrisp Apples’ Superior Flavor and Texture, Offering Significant Upsell Potential for Retailers
In a recent announcement, CMI Orchards has revealed striking new insights into the performance of Washington-grown EverCrisp apples, highlighting their preference among consumers over Fuji apples. This revelation stems from a comprehensive study conducted in April in collaboration with Category Partners. According to the findings, test groups showed a significant preference for EverCrisp apples in blind tastings, emphasizing their superior flavor and texture.
Rochelle Bohm, the Vice President of Marketing at CMI Orchards, detailed the study’s outcomes, noting, “An impressive 90% of participants favored EverCrisp, with 18 out of 20 consumers preferring its superior flavor and texture to Fuji. We knew EverCrisp would shine, however didn’t expect such overwhelming evidence in support of targeting sweet apple buyers, like Fuji, to drive trial of EverCrisp.” This sentiment underscores the strong market potential for EverCrisp, particularly among consumers who already prefer sweet apple varieties like Fuji.
The report indicates that the standout qualities of EverCrisp apples present a lucrative opportunity for retailers. The apples’ superior sweetness and juiciness were highlighted, with the study showing EverCrisp scored 31% higher than Fuji in flavor and 19% better in texture. These attributes, combined with a long shelf life, not only enhance customer satisfaction but also reduce waste, thereby maximizing sales potential for retailers.
Loren Foss, Vice President of Business Strategy at CMI Orchards, emphasized the practical advantages of EverCrisp apples. He stated, “EverCrisp is even sweeter and juicier than most other sweet core varieties, and its long shelf life prolongs freshness, reducing waste and maximizing sales—offering both superior flavor and practical benefits for retailers.” Foss also mentioned that the study revealed a strong consumer interest in trying new apple varieties, although incentives such as pricing promotions or engaging in-store displays are often needed to encourage trial.
The consumer approval ratings further bolster the case for EverCrisp, with the apples receiving a 71% approval rating for flavor and an 87% approval rating for texture. These high ratings suggest a significant potential for retailers to upsell from core apple varieties to premium branded options like EverCrisp, thereby increasing their revenue. Foss highlighted the importance of strategic promotional tactics, including sales contests with rewards like cash prizes or trips to Washington State, to motivate top sales performance and drive engagement.
According to the press release, Washington-grown EverCrisp apples benefit from the region’s optimal growing conditions. The Columbia River’s glacial minerals enrich the orchard soil, and the low annual rainfall, less than a foot per year, naturally reduces the need for orchard sprays, helping to keep pests and fungus at bay. These factors contribute to the high quality and exceptional taste of EverCrisp apples.
Bohm expressed enthusiasm about collaborating with retailers to promote EverCrisp apples, saying, “We’re excited to partner with retailers to showcase the exceptional quality of EverCrisp. With its superior taste, long shelf life, and the Washington advantage, EverCrisp is the perfect apple to boost your sales and satisfy your customers.”
CMI Orchards, headquartered in Wenatchee, WA is one of the Pacific Northwest’s largest growers, shippers, and packers of premium quality conventional and organic apples, pears, and cherries. They distribute their high-quality fruit across the United States and export to over 60 countries worldwide.
This comprehensive study not only reinforces the appeal of EverCrisp apples among consumers but also underscores the strategic opportunities for retailers to leverage this premium apple variety to enhance their offerings and drive sales growth.
