LOS ANGELES, CA - The crisp air and changing leaves here in the Northern Hemisphere aren’t the only signs of fall. The harvest of Giumarra Companies’ California persimmons is another indicator of the season. I sat down with Miguel Beltran, Sales Manager, California Stonefruit and Exotics, and Kellee Harris, Vice President, Retail Merchandising Services, to discuss the varieties and opportunities they create for the produce department.
“Our California Fuyu persimmons recently started harvesting, and you can expect to start seeing our Hachiya persimmons by the end of October. Both flavorful varieties will be available throughout October, November, and December,” says Miguel. “Additionally, for a brief window of time from mid-October through mid-December, we will have our exclusive Sugar & Spice™ persimmons available.”
Currently, the supplier anticipates exceptional quality across all of its persimmon varieties. When it comes to Fuyu persimmons, though, Giumarra will have a significant volume available for promotional purposes. The provider offers bulk Fuyu persimmons in single-layer cartons and convenient 2 lb bags.
“The worldwide demand for persimmons continues to rise due to their delightful flavor, versatility, and nutritional advantages,” adds Kellee, explaining why retailers should add persimmons to their produce aisles. “As the United States becomes increasingly diverse, the consumption of persimmons is expected to grow, especially among shoppers with Asian and Middle Eastern backgrounds who have a particular affinity for this fruit.”
To help promote its persimmons, Giumarra offers customized marketing, merchandising, and sales support to its grocery partners. This helps to enhance consumer demand for the category.
“Our tailored assistance encompasses a range of resources including photography, enticing recipes, and informative nutritional information to support in-store and online marketing and merchandising efforts. We offer point-of-sale materials in different sizes, eye-catching packaging and coordinating display bins with a ‘snap and go’ mobile-ready recipe, social media graphics, and captivating product photography so retailers can create their own custom signs and ad campaigns,” Kellee details. “Additionally, we offer persimmon education programs for both produce staff and consumers to deepen their understanding and appreciation of this exceptional fruit.”
As one of the largest domestic persimmon suppliers in the United States, Giumarra has established its dedicated consumer-oriented website, DoYouFuyu.com, to further inspire shoppers to add the fruit to their baskets.
With a striking resemblance to miniature pumpkins, this fall is the optimal time to promote persimmons, so reach out to a Giumarra Companies rep.
