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 87% 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. The more than 800 grower families and 50 packers and shippers represented by the Pear Bureau Northwest take pride in their ability to produce top-quality fresh USA Pears for the world market. Fresh pears are a delicious and popular fruit choice among consumers of all ages and worldwide consumption of USA Pears is increasing every year. Through professional representatives in the U.S. and around the world, the Bureau coordinates activities designed to increase awareness and consumption of fresh USA Pears. Domestically, regional marketing managers work with national and regional retailers to create customized, strategic marketing plans that help ensure the success of the pear category. Coordinated by the director of international marketing, international marketing representatives in more than thirty-five countries manage and develop promotions for USA Pears with activities and materials tailored to each country's market.