EPHRATA, WA - Strong partnerships are taking root in the treefruit sector as Regal Fruit International has announced that it will be selling SugarBee® apples in collaboration with Chelan Fresh, CMI Orchards, and Sage Fruit.

SugarBee apples are currently in early harvest, and retailers are preparing to share their crisp crunch, caramel and honey-toned flavor, and excellent storage with their shoppers. According to a release, these qualities make the variety highly sought after by consumers, and this partnership is making it even easier for buyers to add them to their produce aisles with three sales desks to order from.

The variety was discovered by Chuck Nystrom, Minnesota-based orchardist and member of the North American Fruit Explorers, by chance in the early 1990s. He then partnered with Regal Fruit International to develop the original B-51, patented as CN-121 variety, which has since been trademarked and marketed as SugarBee. Through careful management of long-term planting cycles, orchard caps, and price setting, Regal Fruit has ensured the variety’s ongoing premier status.

Shopper demand for SugarBee has continued to increase nationwide due in part to the comprehensive brand and marketing campaigns from Chelan Fresh over the last five years. With its distinctive honeycomb-shaped PLU, bright packaging, and kid-friendly messaging, the apples are easy to spot and attract consumers.

Interested in getting these beauties on your shelves? Reach out to Chelan, CMI, or Sage Fruit reps today.

Chelan Fresh CMI Orchards Sage Fruit