Gem-Pack Berries' Michelle Deleissegues Discusses Winter Season Demand

SANTA MONICA, CA - During the winter months, consumers take comfort in the familiarity of the berry set. Whether they are using them to fuel their busy days or finding unique ways to incorporate them into holiday meals, shoppers will delight in finding Gem-Pack Berries products in the produce aisle.

“The winter months are a busy season for the southern berry regions,” Michelle Deleissegues, Senior Vice President of Marketing, began telling me. “Gem-Pack offers conventional and organic strawberries out of Oxnard, Irvine/Orange County, Florida, Baja California, and Central Mexico. We also have conventional and organic raspberries from Oxnard, Baja California, and Central Mexico, as well as blackberries and blueberries out of Mexico. Winter is the time to focus on cultivating a beautiful long stem strawberry crop for the upcoming Valentine's Day demand.”

When adding berries to their shopping list, consumers have the advantage of serving beautiful, festive, and flavorful dishes they know contain an extra big nutritional boost as well. Michelle pointed out that berries are also an easy crowd-pleaser, so they are a quick go-to and an assured hit with all ages.

“Berries complement so many types of dishes and cuisine that consumers can add sales boosts beyond daily consumption. The bright colors and sweet and tart flavor profiles make holiday salads, desserts, and drinks extra festive and special,” Michelle continued. “Keep well-stacked displays and encourage inventive ways to use the berries, like blueberries in green salads instead of more typical vegetables. Berries add color and flavor to appetizer boards, cocktail garnishes...just about anything!”

On a final note, Michelle let me know that Gem-Pack is also working with some accounts on developing extra appealing strawberry Valentine's Day promotions that will surely be a big hit. As we learn more, ANUK will report.