With a 20% increase in production and vibrant new marketing efforts, SnapDragon apples are set to reach more retailers and consumers across the country this season.
SnapDragon apples, known for their signature “Monster Crunch,” are set to hit grocery stores nationwide in the coming weeks. This year’s crop, grown by Crunch Time Apple Growers, a cooperative of over 150 family farms in New York, has seen a 20% increase in harvest volume compared to last season. According to Crunch Time Apple Growers’ Executive Director, Jessica Wells, this growth is a result of more acres reaching maturity, allowing for greater distribution across a growing list of retailers.
In addition to the increased volume, growers have reported that the color of the apples is particularly vibrant this year, and the size of the fruit is trending larger than in previous seasons. The favorable growing conditions, including an early spring, allowed for earlier tree blooming and fruit setting, which contributed to an advanced harvest.
Consumers can expect to find SnapDragon apples at major grocery chains such as Walmart, Whole Foods, Target, Aldi, BJ’s, and more. The apples will also be available in local farm markets in regions including New York, Massachusetts, Ohio, and Pennsylvania. Retailers who have been long-time sellers of the variety will be joined by new stores that are eager to offer the popular apple to their customers this season.
Crunch Time Apple Growers is not only focusing on increasing the availability of SnapDragon apples but also implementing several marketing strategies to boost consumer demand. These initiatives include promotions on social media platforms like Pinterest and YouTube, the creation of new recipes featuring the apples, updated point-of-sale materials, and advertising tailored to specific markets.
One notable aspect of this year’s marketing strategy is the continued partnership between SnapDragon apples and the Buffalo Bills, marking the third year of the apple being named the team’s official fruit. As part of this collaboration, SnapDragon apples are available at Bills home games, and players such as Greg Rousseau are featured on promotional trading cards, radio ads, and billboards.
As stated in the report, the SnapDragon apple was developed by Dr. Susan Brown at Cornell University in Geneva, New York. The apple’s sweet, snappy flavor and juicy texture have made it a favorite for snacking, especially when paired with nut butters and cheeses or as a post-workout snack. Retailers interested in offering SnapDragon apples can inquire through the company’s website, SnapDragonApple.com.
