CALIFORNIA - Retailers looking for a product to promote that will draw consumers into stores and lead to larger basket rings should prioritize California grapes. So said Nick Nakashian, Director of Content Development with the California Table Grape Commission, who shared that as the California table grape harvest reaches its peak, there is much for retailers to promote and consumers to enjoy.

“Fall and early winter are optimal times for retailers to promote California table grapes. Not only is there ample volume to support demand and many varieties for retailers to offer, but there are many reasons for consumers to make repeat purchases,” commented Nakashian. “The fact that according to data collected by Circana, the average shopping basket value of a grape consumer is nearly $100 provides additional retail incentive.”

One aspect of table grapes that attracts consumers is the diversity of choices available. There are over 80 varieties of California table grapes, a majority of which are available now through the holidays. Each variety brings its unique color, flavor, shape, and size, creating an opportunity to engage and excite consumers.

The California Table Grape Commission also noted that increasing the number of varieties offered from three or four to six or more drives a 38 percent lift in grape dollars and a 40 percent lift in grape volume.

“And with numerous ways for consumers to share, prepare, and enjoy California grapes, there are as many opportunities for retailers to promote them for the upcoming fall and holiday celebrations—from now all the way to Christmas,” Nakashian continued.

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IRVING, TX - The Big Game is officially in sight, and everyone from the most loyal football fans to the most dedicated guacamole lovers are mentally mapping out their upcoming game-day spread. To help shoppers prepare for the Big Game the right way—with lots of avocados on hand, that is—Avocados From Mexico (AFM) has tapped four-time Super Bowl champion Rob Gronkowski. As part of a national shopper marketing campaign, in-store displays will feature Gronkowski getting ready for the occasion with his favorite “Gronkamole” recipe featuring buffalo sauce.

“Now that I’m watching the Big Game instead of playing in it, I’m especially excited to enjoy the full experience and help other fans level up their game day celebrations with Avocados From Mexico,” said Gronkowski. “Food is such a huge part of what makes game day so fun, and I love incorporating Avocados From Mexico into sharable dishes that bring the good times. And you know I have to bring the heat off the field just as much as I did on the field. My spicy buffalo ‘Gronkamole’ is a guaranteed way to get your entire crew fired up!”

Beginning in January, the brand is rolling out its Always a Good Bowl with Gronk campaign, designed to remind shoppers why avocados are an essential Big Game snack. The campaign includes free Big Game-themed in-store displays, thematic packaging, and digital toolkit solutions, as well as exclusive savings and exciting giveaway prizes.

As AFM shared in a recent release, the Big Game is the largest occasion for avocado consumption, with retailers experiencing an average 15 percent lift the week of the event compared to the week prior.

For more sales-driving strategies to implement in the lead-up to the Big Game, keep reading the latest here at AndNowUKnow.

SAN FRANCISCO, CA - Combining technology, shopping, and games, Instacart is aiming to transform the grocery shopping experience for its retail partners. By integrating AI to enhance rewards and savings, the company's Caper Carts now feature gamified quests, location-based coupons, and aisle-aware advertising to boost customer engagement.

“Caper Carts are ushering in a new era at the grocery store—making shopping more delightful while delivering a seamless experience for customers,” said David McIntosh, Chief Connected Stores Officer at Instacart.

These new features let customers engage in interactive mini-games while shopping, making grocery trips more enjoyable. The upgraded carts will also call out various savings opportunities for shoppers. A recent survey found that 83 percent of consumers are ready for AI-powered savings.

“As one of the first grocers to understand the value Caper Carts provide, we're excited to introduce gamified experiences and expand access to digital coupons,” shared Charlie McWeeney, Vice President of Technology, Digital, and Retail at Wakefern Food Corp.

Location-based coupons will alert customers to nearby deals, and the Caper Carts' indoor location capabilities enable personalized coupon alerts.

The introduction of aisle-aware advertising further allows CPG brands to engage customers with targeted promotions as they shop. Brands like General Mills and PepsiCo are already piloting these location-based ad formats, creating a more personalized shopping journey.

“Customers love watching their running total and clipping coupons directly on the cart—which is ultimately leading to larger basket sizes,” said Bob Hardester, Chief Information and Supply Chain Officer at Schnuck Markets.

For more innovative approaches to adapting to rising consumer preferences, keep reading ANUK.

KANSAS CITY, KS - Associated Wholesale Grocers (AWG) has filled an open position within its Board of Directors and announced the recent appointment of John Cosentino, Owner and Vice President of Cosentino Group, as its newest Board Member.

“I’m honored to join the Board of Directors of AWG and look forward to contributing to the cooperative’s mission,” says Cosentino. “Working with such a dedicated group of leaders is an exciting opportunity to help drive the success of our members and strengthen the cooperative for the future.”

Cosentino serves the Cosentino Group alongside his brothers and cousins, who learned the trade from their fathers, Dante and Jerry, who founded the company in 1948.

As a press release shared, Cosentino has been involved in the grocery business his entire life. He is a proud second-generation grocer of Cosentino Food Stores, which currently operates 31 stores in the Kansas City area. The successful chain celebrated its 77^th anniversary this year.

“We are excited to welcome John Cosentino to AWG's Board of Directors,” says Dan Funk, AWG President and Chief Executive Officer. “His extensive experience as an operator from a respected, long-time member, along with his dedication to both the industry and community, will make him an invaluable addition to our board.”

Barry Queen, Chairman, also commented on Cosentino’s addition to the board.

“John is an excellent addition to the board,” says Queen. “Part of a legacy of lasting relationships and connections with the people and the community of Kansas City, John will bring fresh perspective and insight as new growth and development occur within the industry.”

The press release explained that Cosentino fills the position left open by Victor Cosentino, Vice President of Cosentino Enterprises, who resigned earlier this year.

“We are immensely grateful to Victor for his 23 years of dedicated board service and invaluable contributions to the company,” Funk adds. “His leadership, insight, and commitment have played a significant role in shaping the direction and success of the cooperative.”

Congrats to Cosentino on this recent appointment!

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LEAMINGTON, ONTARIO, CANADA - A new flagship lineup is ushering in the latest look for Nature Fresh Farms®. The greenhouse grower has rolled out refreshed packaging as part of its strategic evolution, themed “Flavor with Feeling,” which merges vibrant design with Nature Fresh Farms’ mission of Growing for a Kinder Future™.

“At Nature Fresh Farms, we’ve always focused on delivering the freshest, most flavorful produce to our customers, and this packaging refresh reflects that commitment,” said Matt Quiring, Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing. “We want our consumers to not only taste the freshness but feel it—from the vibrant colors to the juicy flavors that burst from every package.”

Nature Fresh Farms’ refreshed packaging lineup includes:

• On The Vine: Ombres™, Dramas™, Zens™, Glows™, Hiiros™
• Lil’ Chills™: Baby Cucumbers
• Sweet Thrills™: Medley Tomatoes, Mini Sweet Peppers (now seedless)
• Little Obsessions™: Strawberries, Organic Strawberries

The updated packaging strategy aims to draw consumers in by celebrating rich flavors and meaningful experiences. Beginning with the unique, experiential names, every thoughtful detail of the packaging reflects this emotional journey.

According to a press release, the goal was to reflect the bold flavors Nature Fresh Farms is known for but add a real sense of connection and pull on the heartstrings of consumers. Every detail, from the color palette to the label patterns and texture, was designed to excite and delight.

“From the subtle notes of ZENS™ to the bold punch of DRAMAS™, we’ve created packaging where flavor isn’t just something you taste—it’s something you feel and share,” said Amanda Armstrong, Director of Marketing. “This aligns perfectly with Nature Fresh Farms’ values of innovation and premium quality.”

The sensory-driven packaging is supported by consumer research, which revealed the refreshed designs drove strong appeal. The new names and vibrant visuals deepened consumers’ engagement with the brand, reinforcing that the refresh resonates with today’s shoppers and is driving new momentum for Nature Fresh Farms.

Nature Fresh Farms’ Greenhouse Clean™ label stands for pristine conditions, better quality, and produce that’s better for the earth and your family. By using sustainable methods like good bugs for pest control and a closed-loop water system, Nature Fresh Farms ensures every vegetable is grown with care.

Nature Fresh Farms recently revealed its refreshed packaging at IFPA, highlighting the brand’s renewed momentum focusing on flavor, emotion, and experience.

For more from the press release, click here. And keep reading ANUK to stay up to date on the industry’s latest.