FRESNO, CA - Table grapes are a staple in my fridge, and I find even more joy in the experience when they are grapes from my home state. The California Table Grape Commission (CTGC) is a fierce advocate for the crop, and recently revealed survey data that shows grapes rank as a staple item on the grocery lists of the majority of United States shoppers.
“Shoppers have long viewed California grapes as a staple, something to always consider purchasing,” said Kathleen Nave, President. “Given all the changes in retailing and in consumer shopping behavior in recent years, it is good to see that during the California season, grapes have maintained their position as a consumer favorite and a retail sales driver.”
A survey of 2,000 U.S. adults conducted during the current California table grape season showed that 83 percent of shoppers purchased grapes within the past three months, a press release stated. Of those surveyed, 17 percent of shoppers purchased grapes almost every day or several times a week, 24 percent of shoppers purchased grapes at about once a week, and 42 percent purchased them about once a month or more.
Flavor is ranked as the most important attribute for purchasing grapes. Nielsen IQ data shows that grapes are among the top 10 produce items by sales, and have shown an increase in price and volume in the last 12 months.
The California table grape season has another month of harvest left followed by an additional month-plus of shipping, leaving plenty of time for consumers to continue purchasing the fruit.
That means there are plenty of opportunities for retailers too! So, get out there and build some beautiful table grape displays.