Top 10 Apple Best Practices
1. Promote!
Promote apples two times per period. List four bulk varieties (on average) and
consider sub-featuring two bag apples in the same ad.
2. Placement is key
Fall and winter apple displays should be in lead positions in the produce department.
Create color breaks or co-mingle with pear displays for added color.
3. Pick the right product mix
Build a schedule of when varieties will be on the shelf. Limit your mix to a manageable
number. Give every item a chance to succeed through promotions and timing!
4. Bulk to bag ratio needs to be right
A general rule of 75 percent bulk to 25 percent bags is a good starting point. Regional
differences may change your situation.
5. Don’t forget in-and-out promotions
Bring in 5-pound and larger bag specials in DRC’s or bins for a five day in-and-out!
6. Keep displays fresh
Apples need to be refrigerated to maintain pressure and crispness. Keep inventory
in line and replenish daily.
7. Consider Euro boxes
Euro box apples not only build easy displays, but are also smaller at just 27 pounds.
This creates a 33 percent faster inventory turnover.
8. Theme promotions for extra sales
Build apple excitement around holidays such as: Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas,
Valentines Days, St. Patrick's Day and more!
9. Nutritional tie-in
Build apple interest through nutrition and diet. Tie in with “More Matters” and the
Produce for Better Health campaigns.
10. Don’t forget organic apples
The organic apple category is growing in double digits and deserves attention. Try
substituting some organic varieties for conventional varieties to limit excessive SKU
count.