The apple crop from New York state looks to be a lighter one. "Especially in Western New York, we've had a significant drought going back to Father's Day," says Brett Baker of United Apple Sales. "Each variety is coming in about 10 percent under estimate."
© United Apple Sales
The fruit is coming in smaller, down about one to two sizes compared to the three-year average. Meanwhile the harvest started on time consistent with the 10-year average and picking started on the early Gala and Honeycrisp varieties the week of August 20th. Picking will finish in early November with the late Pink Lady variety.
That said, with those dry conditions, the eating quality–particularly flavor–is strong. "They're eating well and we've also been seeing cool nights since the last week of August. The color on the fruit is as dynamic as I've ever seen it. We're seeing higher pack outs than our five-year average which is exciting because you know you're going to do a good job for your grower with returns when you're getting the majority of the fruit into a fresh pack."
Apple movement steady
As for demand for apples from New York, it's steady and as expected. "I wouldn't say anything is above our expectation–we're right about where we thought we'd be as far as movement," says Baker.
© United Apple Sales
On pricing, he does anticipate aggressive pricing on the Honeycrisp variety of apples from the West Coast growing regions. "I'm hopeful for accelerated sales. I hope that pricing is shared with the consumer and that in turn, they were motivated to purchase more fresh apples," says Baker.
Overall, pricing is flat to slightly down compared to last year's pricing, depending on the variety–Honeycrisp pricing is down compared to this time a year ago. "We're optimistic that come January 2026, once everything is harvested, that we'll see improved pricing. We're hearing that states such as Washington and Michigan are also picking out shorter than desired, so hopefully, pricing will pick up as we get into the new year," says Baker.
For more information:
Brett Baker
United Apple Sales
Tel: +1 (585) 765-2460 ext. 116
https://unitedapplesales.com/