The global cherry market size was estimated at USD 62.50 billion in 2023 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 7.3% from 2024 to 2030. One of the main reasons for market growth is the increasing health awareness among consumers.
Cherries are recognized for their rich nutritional profile, containing antioxidants, vitamin C, and anti-inflammatory compounds. These attributes contribute to various health benefits, such as supporting heart health, reducing symptoms of arthritis and gout, and improving sleep quality. As consumers become more aware of the negative effects of preservatives and processed foods, there is a growing preference for fresh fruits like cherries, which are perceived as healthier options. This shift in dietary preferences has led to increased cherry consumption, particularly in emerging economies where purchasing power is rising.
Economic conditions also play a crucial role in market growth.
Consumers are willing to spend more on fresh products, with higher disposable incomes in developed regions such as North America and emerging markets in the Asia-Pacific. This economic empowerment has stimulated the demand for premium-quality fruit, including cherries. The increasing availability of various cherry varieties year-round has made it easier for consumers to incorporate them into their diet, further driving market growth.
The rise of urban agriculture is another significant factor contributing to the expansion of the fresh cherry industry. The limited availability of land in urban areas has led to innovative farming techniques that allow cherries to be grown in community spaces such as rooftops and school gardens. Urban agriculture reduces transportation costs and improves local access to fresh produce. This trend aligns with consumers’ desire for locally sourced food options, increasing the demand for fresh cherries grown within city limits.
Sustainability has become a key concern for many consumers, increasing the demand for organic and sustainably grown products. Cherry producers adopting organic farming practices can cater to this market segment by offering pesticide-free cherries, which command higher prices due to their perceived health benefits. Additionally, implementing eco-friendly practices such as biodegradable packaging and water conservation can further enhance the appeal of a cherry farm to environmentally conscious consumers. This alignment with consumer values boosts sales and promotes brand loyalty among health-conscious buyers.
Advancements in agricultural technology have also had a positive impact on the cherry industry. Innovations in production techniques have improved both the quality and quantity of yield, enabling farmers to meet rising consumer demand more effectively. These technological improvements include enhanced pest management systems and improved packaging solutions that help maintain fruit quality during transportation. As a result, producers can offer fresher cherries to consumers while minimizing losses due to spoilage.
International trade dynamics have significantly influenced market growth. Regions known for cherry production, such as North America and Europe, have expanded their export capabilities, making cherries more accessible worldwide. As global trade continues to evolve, the market is likely to experience sustained growth driven by both domestic consumption and export opportunities.
One of the most pressing challenges for cherry producers is the impact of climate change. Unpredictable weather patterns, including frost, heavy rainfall, and extreme heat, have led to inconsistent harvests. For example, in 2023, many cherry growers suffered severe losses due to "weather whiplash," resulting in unharvested fields and plummeting prices. Cherries are particularly vulnerable because they do not store well compared to other fruits, making them susceptible to market fluctuations caused by adverse weather conditions. This variability affects yields and compromises fruit quality, putting growers' livelihoods at risk.
Intense competition from imported cherries also challenges the market. Countries such as Turkey and Chile have established themselves as key players in the global cherry industry, often offering lower prices due to their larger production scales. In markets like the UK, domestic producers struggle to compete with these imports despite consumers' willingness to pay a premium for locally grown cherries. This competition can lead to price wars that further shrink profit margins for local growers.
Sweet cherries were the most significant product category in the market, generating USD 58.38 billion in revenue in 2023. This dominance is mainly attributed to their versatility and high demand in the food and beverage industry. Sweet cherries are prized for their excellent taste and appearance, making them ideal for fresh consumption and use in products such as juices, jams, jellies, and desserts.
The growing consumer preference for fresh, high-quality fruit has further driven the growth of the sweet cherry segment. As health-conscious trends continue to influence food choices, sweet cherries are increasingly recognized for their nutritional benefits, including high antioxidant content and potential health advantages, contributing to their sustained popularity.
The sour cherry segment is expected to grow at a CAGR of 8.8% from 2024 to 2030. This growth is driven by increasing demand in the confectionery industry, where sour cherries are used in various products such as candies, chocolates, and ice cream. Additionally, sour cherries are often processed into products like juices and canned goods, with a significant portion of domestic production dedicated to these uses. With rising consumer interest in unique flavors and artisanal products, sour cherries are gaining traction among food manufacturers seeking to innovate with tart flavors. This trend suggests a promising future for sour cherry cultivation and processing as they carve out a niche in the broader market.
Cherry sales through supermarkets and hypermarkets accounted for USD 26.89 billion in market revenue in 2023. Supermarkets and hypermarkets play a key role in cherry distribution, representing a significant market share of approximately 45.30%. Several factors drive this dominance, including the wide variety and availability of cherry types. Consumers can find popular sweet varieties like Bing and Rainier, as well as sour cherries, catering to diverse preferences and encouraging higher sales volumes. Additionally, supermarkets often provide both fresh cherries and processed cherry products, such as jams and juices, increasing their appeal to a broader audience.
The convenience offered by supermarkets is another crucial factor contributing to their market share. These retail formats allow consumers to purchase cherries alongside other grocery items, making shopping more efficient for busy individuals. Supermarkets often use strategically placed cherry displays to encourage impulse purchases, further boosting sales. Promotional strategies, including discounts, loyalty programs, and seasonal sales during peak harvest periods, also attract customers and foster brand loyalty among value-seeking shoppers.
Online cherry sales are expected to grow at a CAGR of 7.6% from 2024 to 2030. E-commerce has transformed the way consumers buy fresh produce, including cherries. Online retailers offer the convenience of home delivery, allowing consumers to shop comfortably from home. This trend was accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic, which pushed many consumers to buy groceries online. Additionally, online platforms often provide detailed product descriptions and customer reviews that help buyers make informed choices about quality and freshness. The ability to compare prices across different retailers also encourages consumers to opt for online channels for their cherry purchases.
The North American cherry industry was valued at USD 19.70 billion in 2023. In North America, cherry demand is significantly driven by an increase in health-conscious consumers who prefer organic and fresh foods over processed options. This shift is evident as consumers increasingly seek fruits known for their health benefits, such as cherries, which are rich in antioxidants and vitamins. The trend toward healthier eating is further supported by the growing popularity of cherries in various culinary applications, including smoothies, salads, and desserts. Additionally, rising disposable income among consumers allows for higher spending on premium-quality fresh produce, contributing to overall market growth. The expansion of e-commerce platforms has also made it easier for consumers to access fresh cherries, improving availability and convenience.
The U.S. cherry industry is projected to exceed USD 25 billion by 2030 and grow at a CAGR of 7.1% from 2024 to 2030. The U.S. cherry industry has seen a significant increase in production, particularly in states like Washington and California, which contribute substantially to sweet cherry production. The growing demand for processed cherry forms, such as juices and jams, is also fueling market growth. Additionally, the popularity of fruit-based beverages among millennials has led to increased cherry consumption as an ingredient in craft beers and cocktails. This diversification of cherry applications is helping expand its market presence.
The Asia-Pacific cherry industry was the largest in 2023, with revenues exceeding USD 21 billion. In the Asia-Pacific region, the growing demand for cherries is primarily influenced by the rising urban population and increasing disposable income. As urbanization accelerates, consumers seek convenient and nutritious food options, including fresh fruits like cherries.
Cultural shifts toward health-oriented diets have increased the focus on antioxidant-rich foods, making cherries an attractive choice for health-conscious consumers. Additionally, emerging economies in this region are witnessing a surge in demand for premium-quality fruit, with consumers willing to pay higher prices for specialty varieties. The increasing interest in organic products and local sourcing further supports the expansion of cherry consumption in these markets.
The competitive landscape of the cherry market is characterized by a mix of established players and emerging companies, with significant activity in both domestic and international markets. North America, particularly the United States, and the Asia-Pacific region are key areas of interest due to their growing demand for fresh cherries.
The United States is a major producer and exporter, with Washington and California leading in sweet cherry production. The market is marked by a concentration of exports, particularly from Chile, which has established itself as a dominant player—especially in the Chinese market, where over 88% of its cherry exports are directed. This heavy reliance on a single market presents both opportunities and risks, highlighting the need for diversification strategies to reduce dependency.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Market Size Value in 2024 | USD 67.06 billion |
| Revenue Forecast for 2030 | USD 102.35 billion |
| Growth Rate (Revenue) | CAGR of 7.3% from 2024 to 2030 |
| Historical Data | 2018 - 2023 |
| Forecast Period | 2024 - 2030 |
| Quantitative Units | Revenue in USD billion and CAGR from 2024 to 2030 |
| Report Coverage | Revenue forecast, company ranking, competitive landscape, growth factors, and trends |
| Segments Covered | Product, application, distribution, region |
| Regional Scope | North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Central & South America, Middle East & Africa |
| Country Scope | United States, Canada, Mexico, Germany, United Kingdom, France, Italy, Spain, China, Japan, India, Australia & New Zealand, South Korea, Brazil, United Arab Emirates |
| Key Companies Profiled | Stemilt Growers, Washington Fruit Growers, Driscoll’s Inc., Borton Fruit, Zirkle Fruit Company, Chelan Fresh, Columbia Fruit Packers Inc., Domex Superfresh Growers, Rainier Fruit Co., Valley Fresh Produce, Naturipe Fruits, Smeltzer Orchard Company LLC, CMI Orchards LLC, Leelanau Fruit Co., Diva Agro Ltd, SICA SAS SICODIS, Cherry Hill Orchards, Perfecta Produce, Northstar Organics, Vitin Fruits |
| Customization Scope | Free report customization (equivalent to 8 analyst working days) with purchase. Addition or modification of country, regional, and segment scope. |
| Pricing & Purchase Options | Take advantage of customized purchase options to meet your specific research needs.Explore purchase options |
This report forecasts revenue growth at the global, regional, and country levels and analyzes the latest industry trends and opportunities in each sub-segment from 2018 to 2030. For this study, Grand View Research has segmented the global cherry market report based on product, application, distribution, and region.
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Source: Grand View Research, USA
Image Source: Grand View Research, USA, SL Fruit Service
06 Jun 2024
‘Agriculture is disappearing in Sierra,’ warns Inocencio Manuel Sánchez vice-president in charge of the Cepeda cooperative and points out that it can become problematic for a small producer or cooperative to be able to sell, for example, cherries.
19 Jun 2024
"Growers are describing the 2024 Northwest crop as a perfectly average crop of excellent quality cherries," said B.J. Thurlby, president of the Northwest Cherry Growers. Along with the warm weather, volumes are also increasing.
07 Mar 2025
A recent study showed that key parameters such as total soluble solids, firmness, and acidity could be predicted with high accuracy, allowing the supply chain to optimize management and improve final quality.
07 Mar 2025
"There are other factors besides the hours of cold weather," said Gardner, owner of Zaiger Genetics in Modesto, California, known for breeding early varieties of stone fruit, sweet cherries and apples.
