Chelan Fresh’s SugarBee®-brand apple cider began shipping this month and is already flying off retailers’ shelves, the company reports. This indicates consumer demand will be strong for new-crop SugarBee apples when they arrive in stores later this fall.

Retailers should act fast to get in on the cider action, said Chelan Fresh Retail Strategy Manager Julie DeJarnatt. She offered tips for maximizing sales with families who are looking for new food experiences to excite them.

"The SugarBee apple variety has proven itself at retail, both with consumer fans and retailers looking for some much-needed topline support," noted DeJarnatt.

Consumers are ready for fall flavors
Consumers are ready to put summer behind them and look to fall, reports DeJarnatt, and fall means new-crop apples and apple cider. She offered retail tips to maximize SugarBee cider sales, and to employ cider to kickstart the SugarBee apple season.

“online schooling and continued teleworking mean more family meals and snacks at home,” DeJarnatt reports. “So everyone is looking for those delicious fall food experiences that they can also feel good about, like apples and cider.”

More eating at home means shoppers are looking for value while still valuing convenience. SugarBee apple cider is sold in family-friendly 64-ounce plastic containers with the iconic SugarBee mascot on the label. The cider is ultra-pasteurized, so it can be stored unrefrigerated until opened.

"Most importantly, the flavor and quality of this year’s SugarBee cider are excellent," DeJarnatt reports.

“This isn’t just a great apple cider, it captures the very essence of SugarBee’s flavor – the sweetness of caramel, with a touch of vanilla and maple syrup,” said DeJarnatt.

SugarBee cider began shipping in early August. DeJarnatt noted it sold out quickly last fall, leaving retailers and consumers wanting more, so Chelan Fresh adjusted its production and scheduling this year. That said, she urged retailers to place orders immediately to avoid missing out.

Cider sales kickstart apple sales
When consumers get a taste of SugarBee cider, then they also want the whole fruit, DeJarnatt noted. She reported that SugarBee apples will begin shipping in October.

Savvy retailers can use SugarBee cider to build consumer demand for the whole fruit, she said, noting that SugarBee has a proven track record at retail.

“With so many apples out there now, retailers want varieties that work hard for them while also standing out with consumers. SugarBee does all of that,” she said. “This apple has opened doors for us because it opens doors for our retail partners. SugarBee is well on its way to being a trusted, year-round and omnichannel brand.”