Despite a 20% drop in pear volumes, Stemilt emphasizes the potential of organic winter pears to drive sales during key promotional months.
Retailers have a prime opportunity to capitalize on winter pear promotions despite a historically low 2024/2025 pear crop, according to Stemilt’s Marketing Director, Brianna Shales.
While the smaller harvest has resulted in decreased volumes and sales, January and February remain pivotal months for boosting pear sales, particularly for organic varieties such as Bosc and Red and Green D’Anjou pears.
The 2024/2025 pear season has seen a 20% decline in crop volume, accompanied by a 12% dip in sales between September 1 and November 23, 2024, compared to the previous year.
“The first part of the year can still be leveraged for promoting pears and bringing dollars back into the category. Organic pear varieties like Bosc, Red D’Anjou, and Green D’Anjou can thrive during this promotional window when other varieties are struggling.”
Marketing Director, Brianna Shales
Historical trends support the importance of these months for pear promotions.
Retail prices for organic pears have already seen a rise, averaging $2.68 per pound compared to $2.45 per pound last year.
This price increase offers retailers a chance to maximize profits while meeting consumer demand for premium organic produce.
Stemilt has also introduced innovative packaging solutions to support these promotions.
The company’s “Lil Snappers” 2 pound pouch bags are a convenient option for organic shoppers, while 3 pound bags for conventional pears and bulk options remain strong alternatives.
Additionally, a newly launched recyclable four-pack provides an environmentally friendly and convenient choice for consumers prioritizing sustainability.
As Shales noted, “In light of the New Year, consumers are shopping for healthier options and looking to the produce department for fruits to incorporate into their diets.”
Promoting freshly packed pears during this critical time frame can also encourage impulse purchases, further driving sales.
Nevertheless, focusing on the timely availability of Bosc, Red D’Anjou, and Green D’Anjou pears at higher retail prices can help retailers uplift the category and recover some of the losses experienced earlier in the season.
