Case Study: New York Apple Association quantifies apples’ economic contribution with IMPLAN

New York Apple Association quantifies $2.1 billion economic contribution with IMPLAN

The New York Apple Association (NYAA) wanted to definitively measure the economic contribution of the apple industry to New York's economy, moving beyond simple output figures to understand its full impact. They partnered with IMPLAN to conduct a detailed economic contribution analysis. The initial challenge was obtaining accurate, localized data on farm spending patterns, as a direct survey of growers yielded a very low response rate, creating a significant hurdle for the project.

IMPLAN provided the framework for a multi-industry analysis that aggregated seven distinct sectors related to apples. The IMPLAN solution, using supplemental data from a university extension program, calculated the industry's total economic contribution. The results were substantial: the apple industry contributed $2.1 billion in output, $587.9 million in labor income, and supported 11,872 jobs in New York State. The study, powered by IMPLAN, garnered significant positive media and legislative attention, ultimately strengthening support for the local apple industry.

New York Apple Association