November 1st, 2009
Vol. 60 No. 16
MARKETING, WINTER SEASON PREVIEW
Apricot orchard in fall, Baker Flats, Douglas County, Washington
Photo by JOHN MARSHALL, WENATCHEE, Washington
NOVEMBER 2009
Vol. 60 No. 16
|
|
FirstFruits Marketing of Washington is the new kid on the marketing block. From left are Jim Hazen, business manager for Broetje Orchards, FirstFruits organic sales specialist Matt Miles, and Melissa Ollis, office manager
Selling a philosophy
FirstFruits Marketing requires commitment to philanthropy and sustainable agriculture.
By Melissa Hansen
In the crowded market of tree fruit, differentiating yourself from others is key. A new marketing firm opening its doors this season hopes to stand out by promoting values of social and environmental responsibility and philanthropy, all while keeping growers profitable.
FirstFruits Marketing of Washington, with an office in Yakima, Washington, began business in mid-August after Broetje Orchards ended its long-term apple marketing relationship with the Raleigh, North Carolina-based L & M Corporation. Affiliated with Broetje Orchards, the new company allows customers to have direct access to the producer, closely linking customers with the grower.
|
OTHER FEATURES
Reubens put to the test
The Rubens apple is harvested in early September, after Gala, and turns a vivid orange-red with red stripes. It has a good balance of sweetness and acidity, which should give it wide appeal.
|
|
Next big thing testing Mairac
Two partners in the European commercialization company VariCom, Michael Weber and Bruno Essner, traveled to the United States in late September to appraise their varieties. |
|
Vineyard innovations
Efficient over-the-row tractors and labor-saving equipment to replace hand labor in the vineyard are finding a place in Washington State's premium wine production.
|
|
NOVEMBER BOOKSHELF FEATURE
| LOST PASSWORD?
|
 Apple Orchard Systems
$25
Reprint of June 2003 IFTA special issue, edited by Bruce Barritt
Contributors to this volume include Bruce Barritt, WSU; Stuart Tustin, HortResearch, New Zealans; Terrence L Robinson, NYSAES, Cornell University; Kert Werth, Terian, Italy; Alison DeMarree and Stephen Hoying, Cornell University.
BUY YOUR COPY TODAY!
| |
|
Enter your email address and click the SEND button. Your information will be emailed to you.
|
