WENATCHEE, WA - Even though I played softball as a kid, I can’t say that I saw too many fruits that were the size of the ball I was whacking into left field. Stemilt Growers is here to prove me wrong—such fruits do exist! Stemilt’s Artisan Organics™ peaches and nectarines harvest has begun, and consumers can soon expect to see softball-sized stonefruit.

“This season’s organic peaches and nectarines are coming off the trees at least two weeks prior to the 2017 season,” stated Roger Pepperl, Marketing Director. “This year’s crop is anything but average, coming in at large sizes, vibrant colors, and out-of-this-world flavor.”

The 2018 crop boasts of a well-balanced flavor profile of sugars and acids in addition to its massive size. According to Stemilt, this balance between sweet and tangy creates an eating experience that leaves consumers with a lasting impression.

“The delicious flavor profiles speak for themselves and will result in high sales dollars,” said Pepperl. “These beautiful tree-ripened organic summer fruits have every attribute a retailer needs to make it a successful organic peach and nectarine season.”

According to a company press release, retailers should focus around bulk promotions to make the most of the Artisan Organics peaches and nectarine season. While the first four weeks will have somewhat smaller sizing, starting ad promotions around August 13 is ideal. Retailers should schedule two to three ads around bulk organic peaches and nectarines starting mid-August and continuing through September. Retailers can kick the promotions off with the popular organic jumbo-sized peaches, followed by organic white peaches and white nectarines starting the third week of August.

“Running ads that highlight this delicious summer fruit will be a great way push more volumes and boost your summer sales dollars,” stated Pepperl. “And to elevate sales, retailers should display the fruit in a well-populated area of the organic section using our grower centric displays.”

Stemilt offers grower-centric display bins that share the unique history of Stemilt’s Artisan Organics program. The company noted that this display pops in produce departments due to its bright coloring and photography.

“The grower-centric displays do well as they offer brand transparency to the consumer,” Pepperl said. “Brand transparency and storytelling goes a long way for the consumer and something we preach constantly here at Stemilt.”

Pepperl noted that honesty with consumers, in addition to answering questions and reaching out to them through social media, has strengthened the trust they have when purchasing Stemilt products.

Stemilt’s Artisan Organics peaches and nectarines are grown by the Douglas family in Pasco, Washington, in the southeastern region of the state. These organic peaches and nectarines are grown in arid climates, making it ideal for organic production. Warm days help the peaches and nectarines achieve high sugar levels and cool nights give the trees an opportunity to rest, giving the stonefruit its beautiful bright coloring.

The Douglas family has been growing peaches, nectarines, and apricots for decades. According to Stemilt, they know when to pick the stonefruit at the optimal time to ensure the fruit gains high sugars and color for the ultimate eating experience.

“Our teams do an incredible job judging the right time to ensure that flavor comes first,” said Pepperl. “And thanks to this experience, our Artisan Organics peaches and nectarines will consistently leave our consumers with a memorable eating experience.”

Sounds like I need to try these softball-sized fruits!

Stemilt Growers