Country Sweet Produce's Duke Dodder Discusses Fourth of July Demand for Watermelons


Thu. June 16th, 2016 - by Melissa De Leon Chavez

BAKERSFIELD, CA - As the melon season makes the transition from Mexico to California, Country Sweet Produce is positioning itself for the coming summer demand. Commodity Sales Manager Duke Dodder took the time to share with me what the next few weeks look like for the company’s watermelon program.

Duke Dodder, Commodity Sales Manager“Everything is looking good, Mexico is pretty much wrapped up and we are looking at a smooth transition into the California crop,” Duke tells me, adding that demand is spiking a bit as we head into Father’s Day weekend, but that things will gain more momentum as Mother Nature turns up the heat. “People like to eat watermelon when it’s hot out,” Duke says.

With the weather set to kick back up next week, that need should be met just in time for the big 4th of July promotions.

“We are up and running around mid-June, and then out around mid-July, so the 4th of July is a big time for us,” he tells me.

So what edge does Country Sweet’s watermelons offer in-store?

Country Sweet Produce's New Watermelon Bins

“We hit the right market with our varieties, with great color and quality. With a deep green rind and a nice red flesh, these melons display very well in-store when cut,” Duke advises, adding that the company also has an attractive new watermelon bin available.

With key markets in mind and a good outlook for a steady market, Country Sweet Produce is confident that it is lined up to catch that Independence Day demand.

AndNowUKnow will continue to keep you posted on all the biggest promotion opportunities for fresh produce throughout 2016 and beyond.

Country Sweet Produce