Portrait of a sweet cherry breeder: Gregorio Lopez-Ortega
18 Jan 2024
n this article, José Quero García, member of the technical-scientific committee of Cherry Times, interviewed Gregorio Lopez-Ortega, breeder at the Chilean company Hortifrut.
What better way to celebrate summer than with a mountain of cherries? It doesn't come to mind for me, nor for Stemilt! The producer discusses how organic cherries are making a comeback with the 2024 harvest and how retailers can use the dark and sweet Stemilt Artisan Organics® cherries to promote, market, and increase sales.
"The sweet and dark organic cherries are increasing compared to last year," commented Brianna Shales, marketing director. "The harvest of cherries is currently underway in Washington State, and we will see an increase in the volume of organic cherries until the end of June for promotions. The ideal time for promotions will be late June and early July, when Washington will have a peak supply."
Shales explained that organic cherries can be exclusive in certain seasons due to fluctuations in volume and availability, but this year will be different as volume and timing align in a short promotional window.
"Creating shelf space for organic cherries and finding ways to market them within major cherry displays is a must. Packaging such as 1 and 2 lb top seal, clamshells, or bags are excellent vehicles to highlight that the cherries are organic and encourage consumers to enjoy a seasonal product."
"Organic cherries can be challenging to grow, but Stemilt has dedicated growing locations and growers suitable for their cultivation," Shales concluded. "It's not every year we promote dark and sweet organic cherries, so we're particularly excited to share opportunities with retailers and help them find success this season with Stemilt Artisan Organics."
Read the full article: AndNowUKnow
Image: The Produce News
