World Fresh Exports Inc. (World Fresh) is preparing to introduce an exceptional new generation of Canadian-bred-and-grown dark sweet cherries to global markets, following its authorization to market the Sansia(TM) and Safirah(TM) cherry series worldwide.

Developed by Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada’s (AAFC) renowned sweet cherry breeding program in Summerland, British Columbia, Sansia(TM) and Safirah(TM) cherries build on a legacy of Canadian cherry innovation that has shaped cherry markets around the world.

For World Fresh, the opportunity is a natural fit. “This is an incredibly exciting moment for us,” said Sarah Bistritz, World Fresh’s Global Sales and Operations Manager. “These cherries represent the very best of Canadian breeding and production, and we can’t wait to share them with our global customers.”

Cherry series designed around harvest timing

World Fresh has been authorized to market five new varieties that are organized into series, deliberately designed around harvest timing, a critical variable in sweet cherry production, logistics and retail performance.

The Sansia(TM) series comprises two mid-season dark sweet cherry varieties that harvest at Bing timing, providing superior size and eating quality in the heart of the cherry season. The Safirah(TM) series comprises two late-season dark sweet cherry varieties that offer valuable supply-window expansion beyond Staccato(TM) and Sentennial(TM) cherry availability. The fifth yet-to-be named dark sweet cherry variety harvests at Regina timing and offers best-in-class firmness and shipping capabilities.

Built on a proven Canadian breeding legacy

The Sansia(TM) and Safirah(TM) cherries emerge from AAFC’s prolific Summerland tree fruit breeding program, internationally respected for developing high-quality sweet cherries with strong commercial relevance. The program is responsible for some of the world’s most recognized dark sweet cherries, including Santina, Skeena, Lapins, Sweetheart, Staccato(TM) and Sentennial(TM). The roll-out is being managed by AAFC’s long-standing global master licensee, Summerland Varieties Corp. (SVC)

“These new cherries continue a remarkable Canadian breeding tradition,” said Nick Ibuki, SVC’s Business Development Manager. “World Fresh has an outstanding reputation for marketing premium cherries, so we’re delighted to see them introducing these exceptional new varieties to global markets as an Authorized Marketer.”

A focus on superior quality throughout the supply chain

World Fresh’s hands-on approach from orchard to market positions the company to showcase the full potential of these new cherries. With deep experience serving international customers and a strong focus on quality and execution, World Fresh is confident the Sansia(TM) and Safirah(TM) series will deliver throughout the supply chain.

“Our customers are looking for cherries that deliver on every level — size, flavour, firmness, consistency and

Built on a proven Canadian breeding legacy 

The Sansia(TM) and Safirah(TM) cherries emerge from AAFC’s prolific Summerland tree fruit breeding program, internationally respected for developing high-quality sweet cherries with strong commercial relevance. The program is responsible for some of the world’s most recognized dark sweet cherries, including Santina, Skeena, Lapins, Sweetheart, Staccato(TM) and Sentennial(TM). The roll-out is being managed by AAFC’s long-standing global master licensee, Summerland Varieties Corp. (SVC) 

“These new cherries continue a remarkable Canadian breeding tradition,” said Nick Ibuki, SVC’s Business Development Manager. “World Fresh has an outstanding reputation for marketing premium cherries, so we’re delighted to see them introducing these exceptional new varieties to global markets as an Authorized Marketer.” 

A focus on superior quality throughout the supply chain 

World Fresh’s hands-on approach from orchard to market positions the company to showcase the full potential of these new cherries. With deep experience serving international customers and a strong focus on quality and execution, World Fresh is confident the Sansia(TM) and Safirah(TM) series will deliver throughout the supply chain. 

“Our customers are looking for cherries that deliver on every level — size, flavour, firmness, consistency and timing,” Sarah Bistritz added. “Sansia(TM) and Safirah(TM) cherries check all of those boxes. They’re remarkable cherries, grown by World Fresh’s best Canadian producers, and we’re thrilled to be taking them to the world.” 

About World Fresh Exports Inc. 

World Fresh Exports Inc. is a marketer of premium fresh fruit, with a strong focus on cherries. The company works directly with growers and packinghouses to ensure quality from orchard to destination and serves customers across major global markets. For media and commercial inquiries, contact: Sarah@lapincherry.com 

About Summerland Varieties Corp. (SVC) 

Summerland Varieties Corp. manages intellectual property rights on behalf of fruit breeders and rights owners of world-renowned cherries, apples and berries, with decades of global experience in plant protection, licensing and commercialization. For media and commercial inquiries, contact: Nick@summerlandvarieties.com

Source:  Summerland Varieties Corp and May 4, 2026 news release