Sarah Lucas of Superfresh Growers® Discusses Successful CPMA Engagement and Current Outlook

YAKIMA, WA - As the catch-up lists dwindle to typical to-dos and the social batteries spark back to life, it is the perfect time to reflect on the record-breaking 4,600-plus attended CPMA Trade Show and Expo.

A longtime exhibitor on the precipice of revving its next harvest, Superfresh Growers® saw clear advantages in being present for the Toronto event.

“We view this as the premier event to engage with our Canadian customers. It is such a special time to meet and build upon our strong relationships. CPMA continues to offer a unique, more intimate environment where we can focus on what is important to the Canadian consumers," Sarah Lucas, Director of Retail Strategy, reflected.

Engagement at CPMA was strong, she shared, with meaningful meetings across all key Canadian retailers and buy-side partners, along with valuable opportunities for networking and deeper category conversations.

Beyond its core apple and pear varieties offerings, the team highlighted high-color Pink Lady® apples, Galas, large Cosmic Crisp® apples, sweet Autumn Glory® apples, and juicy d’Anjou pears, alongside its highly anticipated summer fruit.

“With Superfresh Summer quickly approaching, our cherries, blueberries, and apricots have bloomed into what we expect to be another outstanding season, delivering the fresh flavors consumers love, along with a brand-new look for our cherries and SuperCherry™ brand that is sure to catch anyone’s eye in the produce aisle,” Sarah said. “Each of these fruits plays a strategic role at retail.”

She explained that high-color Pink Lady® apples and Granny Smiths provide bold visual contrast to create impactful displays, while Gala apples continue to deliver dependable, everyday value for families. Cosmic Crisp® apples, on one hand, remain one of the fastest-growing varieties in the category among consumers, while on the other Autumn Glory® apples offer a distinctive sweet flavor profile with notes of caramel and cinnamon. This appeals to shoppers seeking a more indulgent eating experience in their fruit.

Meanwhile, d’Anjou pears offer versatility for snacking, baking, and cooking, while aligning with the growing interest in fiber-rich foods.

“Looking ahead to the outlook on the spotlighted varieties, there is a broader conversation around how cherries are evolving from a seasonal impulse item into a broader lifestyle and wellness-driven category,” Sarah observed. “There are growing consumer trends tied to cherries, including functional nutrition, antioxidants, anti-inflammatory benefits, sleep support, and the nostalgic 'summer flavor' positioning that continues to resonate with shoppers.”

Looking forward and back, Sarah said that one of the biggest messages coming out of CPMA is how important supply continuity and timing will be this season. With a continued commitment to this exact factor, the event was a perfect segue into the coming offerings from the supplier.