Our History
The Pear Bureau Northwest was established in 1931 as a non-profit marketing organization to promote, advertise and develop markets for fresh pears grown in Washington and Oregon. Pears from these two Northwest states are distributed under the USA Pears brand.
Combined, Washington and Oregon comprise the nation’s largest pear producing region. They produce approximately 88% of all fresh pears grown in the United States, and more than 96% of all winter pears (non-Bartlett varieties such as Bosc and Anjou). They also account for 92% of America’s fresh pear exports.
Today, the 700+ grower families and 30+ packers and shippers represented by USA Pears take pride in producing top-quality fresh pears for the world market. Fresh pears are a delicious and popular choice among consumers of all ages, and global demand for USA Pears continues to grow every year.
Marketing and Promotions
Through professional representatives in the U.S. and around the world, our team coordinates activities designed to increase awareness and consumption of fresh USA Pears. Domestically, the director of marketing and four regional managers work with national and regional retailers and local fruit-packers to market USA Pears via point of sale material, special promotions and children’s activities.
Our international marketing representatives in more than thirty countries manage and develop promotions for USA Pears with activities and materials tailored to each country’s market.
Research
USA Pears facilitates research on behalf of the Northwest pear industry in areas such as consumer awareness and preferences, nutritional benefits and emerging domestic and international markets.
Industry Relations and Communications
Members of the Pear Bureau leadership team hold national and international committee appointments on many of the top agricultural and produce associations including:
- Member of IFPA International Fresh Produce Association
- Partner of the Foundation for Fresh Produce
- Member of the World Apple and Pear Association (WAPA)
- Member of the Canadian Produce Marketing Association (CPMA)
- Executive Board Leadership of the United States Agricultural Export Council, WAPA, AgSafe and Grower-Shipper Foundation
- The Bureau produces several publications to meet the information needs of its growers, shippers and packers, as well as fresh pear consumers. These publications inform and educate readers about Pear Bureau activities and about current market status of USA Pears.