Juici, Ambrosia Gold and EverCrisp touted as winter powerhouse trio

CMI Orchards says Juici, Ambrosia Gold and EverCrisp apples can meet seasonal demand for fresh produce while powering the apple category and exciting shoppers.

“Each of these varieties brings something special to the table,” Joel Hewitt, vice president of sales for the Wenatchee, Wash.-based marketer, said in a news release. “Juici offers a perfectly balanced tangy-sweet flavor with a crisp, refreshing bite, and its striking pinkish-red hue is impossible to overlook. EverCrisp are supremely sugary and juicy, with a crunch that stores well, making it a favorite for consumers who crave sweetness without sacrificing that satisfying bite.”

Hewitt said the CMI-exclusive Ambrosia Gold offers an appealing color break in produce displays.

“The unique honey-like flavor and low acidity of Ambrosia Gold makes it the perfect everyday apple, creating a great opportunity to trade-up shoppers who typically go for similar mild varieties, like Gala,” Hewitt said.

With a projected Honeycrisp shortfall of at least 30%, the timing couldn’t be better for retailers to diversify offerings, he said.

“Honeycrisp sets the bar for apple pricing, and shortages give us the opportunity to introduce shoppers to other high-flavor options,” Hewitt said. “Ambrosia Gold, Juici and EverCrisp are positioned to take center stage, maintaining profitability and keeping consumers engaged.”

CMI Orchards provides robust support to retailers through its “Like This? You’ll Love That” campaign, which connects consumer favorites like fuji, gala and Honeycrisp to premium alternatives like EverCrisp, Ambrosia Gold and Juici.

Senior Marketing Manager Danelle Huber said the campaign help shoppers confidently explore new varieties and make informed purchasing decisions — crucial for driving trial and capturing incremental sales.

“We know consumers feel overwhelmed by the sea of apples on the shelf, especially during the winter months,” Huber said in the release. “By linking exciting, branded varieties to familiar names, we create a clear path for shoppers to expand their horizons. It’s about making it easy for retailers to capture additional dollars and easy for shoppers to find their new favorite apple.”

Sampling and education remain essential tactics for retailers looking for a difference at the register, the release said.

A recent study conducted by CMI Orchards and Category Partners revealed that shoppers are eager to try new apples but need a nudge — whether through eye-catching displays, promotions or in-store tastings.

“Shoppers who try these apples keep coming back,” Huber said. “Investing in education and trial today doesn’t just drive sales now; it builds lasting loyalty and repeat purchases for retailers.”