Fruit Industry Snapshot

Tree Fruit

• Despite some late freezes in certain areas, most orchard growers report that spring conditions were favorable and that they have a full crop. NY’s apple production is forecast at 32.5 million bushels, an increase over last year. Due to large crops nationwide, pricing has been down and apples in storage nationwide as well as New York exceed both last year’s numbers as well as the 5-year average.

• 2023/24 apple exports have recovered substantially from last year’s poor showing and have been tracking above the 5-year average.

Wine/Craft Beverage

• Visitor traffic at tasting rooms is generally down. Sales per visitor remain solid as well as online sales. Overall, sales are consistent with a downward trend from the COVID peak.  Rainy conditions this year will drive pest pressure up which will increase vineyard production costs. Labor is a topic of constant concern, but tipping has permanently changed the tasting room staff pay scale to the positive and adequate labor is generally available. With a decrease in traffic to wineries, having a thriving wine club or online sales platform is essential for top results.

Cranberries

• Spring was excessively wet during bloom. However, overall production looks as though it will be close to average in Massachusetts. Pricing is stable to down slightly from last year. 

• Most buyers, including Ocean Spray are paying about $40/bbl. Decas has reportedly come in lower than average.