Honeycrisp Apple Market Tightens with Additional Varieties in Fluctuation; Brianna Shales, Mac Riggan, and Rochelle Bohm Discuss

WASHINGTON STATE - The apple category remains a key driver in the fresh produce department, closely tied to perceptions of freshness, quality, and presentation. Monitoring market conditions and supply—alongside strong supplier partnerships—is critical to maintaining consistency and meeting retail demand. As spring begins, shifting supply and demand dynamics create a range of opportunities for retailers who stay informed on market movement.

Our friends in Washington took a moment to update us on what is currently taking place in the category.

Brianna Shales, Marketing Director, Stemilt

“National fresh apple holdings are down 9 percent compared to this time last year, driven by tight conditions on Fuji, Gala, Pink Lady, and Honeycrisp. In Washington, we're 48 percent shipped on the apple crop and tracking ahead of last year. Looking at Honeycrisp specifically, we are shipping ahead of last year's rate when supply became very tight. Demand is strong, and packouts are declining, causing a tighter supply of this consumer favorite. Honeycrisp has proven to sell successfully at higher prices, and that's what is needed given the crop status."

Gala is another variety in tight supply while Cosmic Crisp continues to climb its way to the top of the apple category by becoming the #3 selling apple in February."

Mac Riggan, Vice President of Sales and Business Development, Chelan Fresh

“Current supply of Honeycrisp apples from all growing regions across the county are running short of demand. Washington State has 4 million boxes less to ship than 2 years ago, with strong demand driving up FOB prices—and imported Honeycrisp supply is not expected to make up the difference. 

With ample volume through September, retailers can look to emerging varieties like the Sugarbee® and Rockit™ to fill the void as both varieties are consumer favorites and command premium pricing.”

Rochelle Bohm, Vice President of Marketing, CMI Orchards

“Honeycrisp continues to anchor the premium apple category, consistently delivering strong sales even at higher price points. With tighter supply this season, retailers should expect elevated Honeycrisp pricing as demand continues to outpace available volume.

The past two seasons have reinforced how important it is to stay nimble when Honeycrisp volumes fluctuate. Varieties with Honeycrisp parentage like Cosmic Crisp, SugarBee, and EverCrisp help bridge those gaps, while other premium varieties like Envy keep shoppers trading up and dollars flowing into the apple category.”

As we launch into spring, keep checking back with AndNowUKnow for more on the categories that drive the produce department.