ELGIN, MN - Imports are a core pillar of Honeybear Brands’ year‑round supply strategy. The company’s long-term partnerships in Chile and Argentina provide key volumes of apples and pears, ensuring seamless transitions for retailers.

“The Northern Hemisphere supply naturally tapers as we move through late spring and summer, and the Southern Hemisphere season seamlessly fills that gap,” Chuck Sinks, President of Sales and Marketing, tells me. “Import fruit allows us to maintain variety depth, support key promotional windows, and provide a stable, high‑quality eating experience for consumers regardless of the time of year.”

Beyond volume, the company’s import program reinforces continuity to its partners.

"Retailers generally respond very positively to imported fruit because it enables them to maintain full shelves, run promotions, and avoid seasonal gaps that can impact shopper loyalty. Consistency, reliability, and quality are the top priorities for retail partners, and Chilean imports allow us to meet those expectations year after year,” Chuck explains. “From a consumer standpoint, most shoppers simply expect apples and pears to be fresh and flavorful year‑round. When imported fruit meets those expectations—as Chilean fruit routinely does—consumer acceptance is strong. Quality is the differentiator, and our integrated Honeybear quality control and entry points on two coasts ensure the fruit performs well in‑store and at home.”

This year, Chilean crops will play a significant role in balancing supplies as the U.S. domestic crop winds down. Honeybear field teams in Chile report excellent color development, good sizing, and clean fruit thanks to favorable weather patterns during the spring and early summer.

“For apples, we anticipate Chile will continue supporting consistent Honeycrisp and Gala volumes—critical in a year when the U.S. crop has shown tighter supplies in certain regions,” Chuck notes. “On the pear side, the Chilean crop will help maintain continuity of green and red varieties as domestic inventories tighten. Overall, Chile’s reliable crop outlook helps create a smoother transition between hemispheres and supports a more predictable market for both retailers and consumers.”

“While every season comes with its own nuances,” Chuck adds, “we’re encouraged by what we’re seeing in the orchards and are confident that the overall quality will align well with the premium standards Honeybear customers expect.”

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