Cherries have made the Oppenheimer Group’s list of top items to promote over the upcoming holiday season, joining traditional favourites including Ocean Spray fresh cranberries and Japanese mandarins.
With their festive red colour and resemblance to holiday ornaments, Oppy said that winter cherries could become a new tradition for many.
Import cherries are more plentiful than ever, said Evan Myers, Oppy’s executive category director for South American imports, noting that the increased cherry plantings in Chile and Argentina could mean the tradition is here to stay.
“We’re recommending cherries for Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s promotions,” he said. “While most people see cherries as a summer item, they are even more of a special treat during the fall and winter months.”
Oppy’s first Chilean cherries of the season arrived during the last week in October, ten days earlier than in 2013. Its Argentine cherry programme begins in late November. Oppy cherries should be available at least through the third week in January.
“Our cherries are packed in the popular, eye-catching stand-up pouch bags,” Myers said. “They are a perfect impulse purchase and can be easily merchandised as a convenient, distinctive item to bring to holiday gatherings or just enjoy during this busy time of year.”
As well, Oppy plans to market Argentine cherries in Cookie Monster themed packaging as part of the Sesame Street eat brighter! programme when the fruit becomes available later this month.
