NEW YORK, NY - Who will be the apple of your eye at the upcoming Southern Exposure event hosted by the Southeast Produce Council? Could it be New York Apple Association (NYAA) and its fresh apples from the state of New York? It just might, and Cynthia Haskins, President and Chief Executive Officer, is here to share why.

“At Southern Exposure, we will be showcasing our flavorful apple varieties and point-of-sale options, including our high-graphic packaging and convenient packaging options that are always great for displays,” Cynthia began. “We are excited to discuss our in-store and online promotion capabilities with buyers. NYAA has been a leader in digital advertising, and we are looking forward to continuing our work on these platforms—especially as more of our retail partners develop robust in-house online programs.”

Cynthia shared that Southern Exposure has historically been a go-to show for NYAA, thanks to the high percentage of buyers walking the show floor and the relevant speaker lineup. Reconnecting with the industry at this event year after year is always a highlight, and this year, NYAA will be able to exhibit at booth #503.

“Our hope is that attendees visiting our booth will walk away with an understanding of the New York apple industry and its remarkable advances within the past few years. New York is home to advanced controlled-storage facilities, and our growers use cutting-edge technology both in the orchard and packinghouse,” Cynthia explained. “Our growers have also invested in new plantings of high-demand varieties while maintaining our selection of classic varieties like Empire and McIntosh that consumers love and continue to seek out.”

Some of the newer varieties, as Cynthia told me, include Snapdragon, Rubyfrost, New York-grown Sweetango, and New York-grown Evercrisp apples.

“Apples are year-round, and it is important for retailers to continue to dedicate space for consumers’ top snack choice,” said Cynthia.

Adding to that point, March will be National Nutrition Month, and NYAA likes to remind buyers that New York apples are a flavorful choice to promote good health and good sales. It’s important to make sure buyers know they can count on New York for a continued supply of delicious, high-quality apples.

“Additionally, the New York Apple Association has a library of social media and digital content, and we work closely with retailers on customizing the right partner solutions to drive sales at the retail store and online,” Cynthia concluded.

For more from this East Coast champion, be sure to swing by the booth!

New York Apple Association