WENATCHEE, WA - Dreaming of cherries already? We are too, especially after reading CMI Orchards’ latest news. The supplier announced that this summer it will be adding significant volume and expanded seasonal availability to complement its expansive cherry portfolio.

"By welcoming Starr Ranch into the CMI family, we're set to handle about 20 percent of all cherries grown in the Northwest," began Bob Mast, President of CMI Orchards."This isn't just a small step—it's a giant leap that increases our cherry supply by 70 percent and expands the time we are able to be in the market. We'll be able to start the season earlier and keep going later. This move positions us to become one of the strongest, most significant players in the cherry arena.”

Jim Thomas, Owner of Starr Ranch Growers, echoed these thoughts.

"This alliance brought together two distinguished companies to address market needs," he noted. "Retailers have been seeking earlier cherry availability and an extended season. By merging our strengths, we are now equipped to fulfill these requests, providing our customers with high-quality cherries throughout the entire Northwest cherry season."

With an impressive portfolio that includes hallmark varieties as well as its flagship American Dream® program, CMI has the offerings necessary for key holiday and summer promotions.

“We truly have a cherry for every shopper, every market, and every demographic,” Mast added. “And now, with our expanded seasonal availability, retailers can reap the rewards of cherry season for even longer.”

To speak on the seasonal estimate is Joel Hewitt.

“We had a few prolonged sub-zero days at the tail end of winter which impacted bud development in some regions, but the extent to which this impacted the crop is not yet known,” CMI’s Vice President of Sales explained. “The warmer spring days we’re having could push harvest ahead by a couple of days—time will tell. We’re hopeful for a stellar season ahead and encourage retailers to work with us on summer cherry plans well ahead of time–especially for American Dream July 4 promotions. Cherry season will be here before we know it!”

Hewitt also remarked on the Starr Ranch alliance.

“Having four advanced cherry packing operations means we can be more nimble and responsive to the needs of our customers, allowing us to run specialty packs and varieties in addition to our regular Red and Rainier cherry volume,” he added. “Hydro-cooling, tunnel cooling, next-generation optical sorting, robotic palletizers, automated packing lines—our owners have invested in the latest technology to help us deliver the very best quality we can. This commitment to excellence is what sets CMI apart and allows our delicious Northwest cherries to shine on the produce shelf.”

To learn more about CMI’s cherry program, please click here.

ANUK will be ready for the latest in all things cherry.