Stemilt’s Granny Smith Apples Set to Shine in November and Beyond
September 23, 2025 | 2 min to read
WENATCHEE, Wash. – As Stemilt kicks off the Granny Smith apple season, increased volumes present a prime opportunity for promotions, especially in November when sales peak. Brianna Shales, Stemilt’s Marketing Director, highlights the apple's rising significance, making up 13.8% of apple volumes during the holiday. The West and South regions outperform national averages, while opportunities remain in the Midwest and Northeast. With its baking versatility, Granny Smith stands poised for strong sales through aggressive marketing strategies this fall and winter.
WENATCHEE, Wash. – Green means go for Stemilt’s Granny Smith apple season, with increased volumes positioning it for backing strong promotions this fall and throughout the entire season. Nielsen data reveals November as a critical opportunity for promotion, where retailers can capitalize on Granny Smith during a sales spike to keep momentum up throughout the holiday timeframe.
“November is Granny Smith’s time to shine,” said Stemilt’s Marketing Director, Brianna Shales. “With all varieties coming back into stock, it’s important to recognize which ones can be a boost to the category during key times of the year. Fall and winter are when Granny Smith stands out. It makes up 12% of apple volumes, except for the November holiday period, when it spikes to 13.8% of apple volumes. With our larger crop this year, we can support aggressive, multi-ad promotions that carry momentum well into next year.”
Regionally, the West and South surpassed the U.S. average with Granny Smith, making up 14-15% of apple volumes in November. In the Midwest and Northeast, the apple makes up 10.6-11.9% of volumes, coming in lower than the total U.S. and presenting promotion opportunities to uplift the variety in these regions.
“There are many ways to sell Granny Smith this season,” said Shales. “Bulk and bag preferences are nearly split down the middle, with 53% of shoppers choosing bulk and 47% purchasing bags. Stemilt also offers a sustainable four-pack for Artisan Organics® apples that can be used to build enticing displays and call attention to the variety. Whether in a package or showcased on the shelf, Granny Smith has great potential!”
Granny Smith is the #3 apple in the U.S. and gives retailers a chance to see strong sales beyond the holiday season through promotions early on. Traditionally, Granny Smith is a versatile apple in the kitchen, sought after for its crisp texture that holds well during baking, and tart flavor that balances baked goods.
“Our increased volumes this year mean retailers don’t have to hold back,” said Shales. “There’s ample opportunity to build multi-ad campaigns that highlight Granny Smith’s baking appeal and boost overall category performance. This is the time to capitalize on consumer demand and set the tone for the entire season.”
About Stemilt
Stemilt is a leading grower, packer, and shipper of apples, pears, and cherries, with a legacy rooted in family farming and a passion for growing World Famous fruit. With vertically integrated operations and a commitment to sustainability, innovation, and flavor, Stemilt delivers fruit that delights from tree to table.