Exhibiting at Thaifex - Anuga Asia 2025

The Washington Apple Commission, based in Wenatchee, Washington, USA, is a quasi-governmental agency dedicated to the promotion and global marketing of Washington State apples. Representing apple growers and packers across the state, the commission plays a critical role in sustaining the reputation of Washington as a premier global supplier of high-quality apples.

Company Background and History

Established in 1937, the Washington Apple Commission was created to support apple growers through strategic marketing, promotional campaigns, and market development. The commission operates under the oversight of the Washington State Department of Agriculture and serves as a central organization to unify branding and global representation of the state's apple industry.

The commission’s work is funded by assessments on each box of apples shipped, making it a grower-supported entity that reinvests in brand visibility, research, and education.

Core Business and Offerings

The Washington Apple Commission does not directly sell apples but promotes the following varieties grown in Washington State:

• Gala
• Red Delicious
• Fuji
• Honeycrisp
• Granny Smith
• Cripps Pink
• Golden Delicious
• Cosmic Crisp®

These varieties are distributed in over 60 international markets, with rigorous quality standards maintained throughout the supply chain.

Specialization and Unique Selling Proposition

The Commission’s unique value lies in:

• Global marketing support for growers and shippers.
• Educational outreach for consumers and retailers on health benefits, recipes, and apple varieties.
• Brand standardization, ensuring the Washington Apple brand reflects quality, traceability, and sustainability.
• Promotion of Cosmic Crisp®, an exclusive variety developed by Washington State University.

Washington apples benefit from the state’s unique climate, nutrient-rich soil, and sustainable farming techniques, making them some of the most demanded apples worldwide.

Financial Performance

Though the Commission itself is not a commercial seller, its activities are tied to the financial health of the apple industry:

• Washington State produces over 125 million boxes of apples annually.
• Export value of Washington apples exceeds $1 billion USD per year.
• Key export markets include Thailand, Taiwan, Mexico, India, and Canada.

The Commission invests millions annually into international promotions, trade missions, and consumer education.

Export and Shipment Records

Washington apples are among the top U.S. agricultural exports. The Commission supports trade in:

• Thailand, where Washington apples are promoted through in-store events, digital campaigns, and collaborations with retail chains.
• Shipment volumes to Thailand in recent years have surpassed 1,000 containers annually, according to trade data from USDA-FAS and the U.S. Apple Export Council.

The Commission provides marketing tools and logistical support for shippers looking to expand or strengthen distribution in Thailand and Southeast Asia.

Target Market

The Commission targets:

• International consumers seeking safe, nutritious, and premium-quality fruit.
• Retailers and importers in Asia, Latin America, and the Middle East.
• Schools and health-conscious households via nutritional campaigns.

Their Thailand campaigns particularly focus on urban grocery chains and health-focused audiences, promoting apples as a daily nutritional snack.

Capabilities

The Commission’s marketing and support capabilities include:

• Multilingual digital and print marketing assets.
• In-store promotional events and media campaigns.
• Access to USDA-backed trade facilitation programs.
• Strong data insights on market trends and consumer preferences.

Their global marketing efforts are supported by local market representatives in key countries including Thailand.

Certifications and Compliance

While the Commission does not produce apples, it partners with certified growers and packers adhering to:

• Global GAP, USDA Organic, and other international safety standards.
• Phytosanitary and export compliance regulations. This ensures smooth customs clearance and high safety perception in export markets.

Customer Testimonials

Washington Apples enjoy high consumer trust:

• “Always fresh and crisp – the best apples on the shelf.” – Thai retail shopper feedback.
• Importers often cite Washington’s predictable quality, attractive branding, and marketing support as key reasons for preference over competitors.

Retailers in Thailand consistently feature Washington Apples in premium fruit sections due to their appeal to middle- and upper-income consumers.

Major Achievements

• Successful annual campaigns such as Washington Apple Week in Thailand.
• Launch and rapid adoption of Cosmic Crisp® in global markets.
• Collaboration with over 100 importers and retail chains worldwide.
• Recognition as a top fruit marketing body in the U.S. agricultural sector.

The Washington Apple Commission continues to elevate the presence and preference of Washington-grown apples globally. Through targeted market development and consistent quality promotion, it ensures growers receive optimal value and consumers enjoy premium, safe, and delicious apples year-round.