Chris leads the organization’s data, research, and industry intelligence efforts. Drawing on extensive analytical and economic research experience, Chris analyzes datasets on apple production, utilization, pricing, trade, storage, movement, expenses, and economic impact to identify trends affecting growers, packers, marketers, processors, and other stakeholders across the apple supply chain.
Chris produces the monthly USAppleTracker storage survey and the annual Industry Outlook report, two of the industry’s most widely used sources of market intelligence. He also develops state-specific analyses on the farmgate value of the apple crop, downstream employment, and economic activity to support advocacy, communications, and policy initiatives. In addition, Chris communicates complex analytical findings through reports, presentations, webinars, media interviews, and industry publications, while maintaining and expanding USApple’s Newton database and dashboard to provide members with timely access to apple industry statistics. He regularly collaborates with government agencies, academic researchers, technology providers, and other organizations on apple-related projects and programs.
Prior to joining USApple in 2020, Chris directed research at the International Council of Shopping Centers (ICSC). In this role he was responsible for generating original research on the economic and social contributions of the $6.7 trillion retail real estate industry. Prior to joining ICSC, Gerlach worked as a consultant utilizing sophisticated economic impact models to assist public-sector entities achieve long-term strategic development goals. He began his career as an analyst with the CoStar Group, Inc., a leading provider of commercial real estate information and analytics.
Chris holds a Master of Regional Planning degree from the University of North Carolina and an MBA from the George Washington University School of Business.