How a New Apple is Born

Rave®, Jazz®, Cosmic Crisp® - you’ve probably noticed the rise in creative names (and flavors) arriving in supermarkets to shake up the apple category. But, do you know how a new apple is born? From patents and propagation to countless tests and trials, learn all about how a new apple is born in this episode of Lost in the Supermarket!

Rob Blakey, R&D Manager at Stemilt

Rob is the research and development manager for Stemilt, a family-owned company and leading grower-packer-shipper of apples, pears, cherries, stone fruits, and organics. Originally from South Africa, Rob earned his PhD in avocado post-harvest physiology. He worked at Westfalia Fruit in South Africa and in the UK as a horticultural researcher in avocados, before moving to Washington State in 2016. At Stemilt, Rob manages R&D activities and new variety programs.

Brianna Shales, Senior Marketing Manager at Stemilt

Brianna is the senior marketing manger at Stemilt. She joined Stemilt’s marketing team after earning a BA in Communication from Washington State University. More than a decade later, Brianna works on marketing strategy and communications execution as it relates to the Stemilt brand, and its signature branded varieties like Rave® apples.