Photo contributed by BCTF
Okanagan Cherries
The BC Cherry Association is launching Canadian Cherry Month this summer to showcase the outstanding quality and taste of Canadian cherries and to celebrate the hardworking farmers and producers who ensure superb quality and freshness from farm to table, from coast to coast.
“We are thrilled to launch the inaugural Canadian Cherry Month and to recognize the incredible contributions of cherry growers to Canadian agriculture, the economy and food supply,” says association president Sukhpaul Bal.
“We invite all Canadians to join us in celebrating this delicious and nutritious fruit and to support our Canadian cherry industry by enjoying the best tasting cherries in the world.”
From July 15 to August 15, 2023, Canadians can participate in a variety of cherry-themed promotions across the country. Cherry recipe contests, photo contests, and in-store retail cherry celebrations are just a few of the many ways to shine a light on Canadian cherries this summer.
During Canadian Cherry Month retail grocers are encouraged to participate in a national retail display contest aimed at promoting these juicy sweet summer treats. Customizable marketing and messaging assets will support the program as well as great prizes for contest winners.
Cherries have a long and rich history in Canada, dating back to the late 1800s when cherry trees were first planted in the Okanagan Valley. Today, cherry farming has become an integral part of B.C.’s agriculture industry. Ninety-five percent of Canadian sweet cherries are grown in the province, with over 400 cherry growers producing over 20,000 tonnes of cherries each year.
The unique climate and rich soils in the Okanagan, Similkameen, and Creston Valleys make it the ideal place to grow cherries. With a mild climate, sun-drenched summers, and ample irrigation, these regions are renowned for producing some of the world’s finest cherries.
B.C. cherries are known for their sweet flavour, deep colour, and firm texture, all thanks to the unique growing conditions. The cold winters in these regions allow cherry trees to rest fully between crops, resulting in larger cherries each year. Additionally, the northern latitude means longer days with more hours of warm sunshine during the ripening season, making the cherries even sweeter and more flavourful.
As more Canadians aim to buy domestic products, participation in Canadian Cherry Month is the ideal way for retailers to appeal to consumers, create in-store engagement, and increase sales.
The BC Cherry Association represents growers, marketers, packers, researchers and industry members. It sponsors research to grow and deliver top quality cherries to markets around the world and also works to promote and strengthen marketing opportunities.
Learn more at bccherry.com
