SAN ANTONIO, TX - As competition continues to grow in the ever-evolving greenhouse-grown tomato category, NatureSweet is ramping up distribution of its new Constellation medley pack to retailers across the U.S. This new pack, launched at last year’s PMA Fresh Summit, features five different tomato varieties that are tailored to a range of eating experiences.
“The popularity of Constellation continues to grow, and as demand increases we are distributing in new regions across the country,” Michael Joergensen, Vice President of Marketing, tells me. “Currently, the variety pack is in multiple divisions of club stores and several retail banners. We started out with just a handful of retailers in Midwest, now retailers on both coasts are interested in the Constellation medley pack.”
NatureSweet continues to refine its variety R&D through consumer research to perfect the right mix of product.
“We have found that consumers gravitate toward the idea of a tomato for every occasion - salads, snacking, sandwiches and cooking,” Michael adds.
Constellation is a predetermined mix featuring the SunBursts and Glorys varieties, as well as three new tomatoes, the Jubilees, a chocolate grape tomato, and an orange grape tomato. All these tomatoes have been bred for flavor with each answering a different calling – SunBursts are ideal for a sweet, healthy snack; the new orange grape tomato adds a burst of color and flavor to salads; Glorys tomatoes are for cooking; the new Jubilees are ideal for sandwiches; and the new chocolate grape tomato offers versatility for multiple uses.
“Each offers a size and flavor profile that can be used across the kitchen. For example, Jubilees are high-flavor with a brix of about 6.5 and can be used as a single-serving tomato. The medium, round tomato cuts into about 5 to 6 slices, the right amount for one sandwich with no waste,” Michael says. “A variety pack is also a great way to introduce more specialty varieties, like a brown grape tomato, to the consumer who may not be as eager try them if the varieties are packaged individually.”
2016 definitely looks to be a year of growth for NatureSweet. The company will continue to evolve the Constellation medley pack, and will also be expanding its everyday lineup in more retailers with more sizes. The company has also moved all of NatureSweet’s products into proprietary packaging, and will continue to work on new packaging designs that will elevate its items.
With additional programs on the horizon for NatureSweet, stay tuned to AndNowUKnow for the latest news and updates.
