LOS ANGELES, CA - The main squeeze at retail this holiday season is, you guessed it, the produce department. Brimming with sales opportunities, cross-merchandising occasions, and promotional strategies for the taking, one stand-out category that continues to surface as a basket essential is the coveted citrus category. And, one key component of that citrus destination this winter is Meyer lemons.
“Now is a great time for retailers to get ahead on holiday planning, building merchandising programs, and creating a consistent message for Meyer lemons from now through the New Year. Quality is really good across our program with great color as well. Sizes are incredibly favorable and peaking on 140s, 115s, and 165s,” Alex Marriott, Category Citrus Lead–Domestic, Giumarra Companies, shares with me. “Their unique flavor makes them a great choice for holiday cooking and baking.”
As a traffic driver and a sure-fire way to increase the ring at the register, Meyer lemons appear to have just the partner they need in Giumarra Companies, with its consistent and quality supplies throughout the winter.
“We are currently harvesting District 1 Meyer lemons, with a majority shipping from California’s Porterville/Exeter area,” Alex continues. “We are just hitting peak harvest, and our Meyer lemons will be available into February for a constant presence on the shelves for customers. Additionally, Giumarra offers one-stop shopping with Navels, Mandarins, grapefruit, conventional lemons, and other citrus items all at one location.”
To ensure retailers have a variety of pack options for Meyer lemons the season, Giumarra is offering 12 x 1 lb bags, 18 x 1 lb bags, ½ cartons, as well as 10 lb and standard cartons. Offering a range of sizes ensures a pack size for every consumer demographic.
“We are pleased to be able to enter the domestic citrus season on such strong footing from a volume and quality standpoint. Our corporate team is eager to assist interested retailers with social media posts, POS materials, and other customized concepts to help drive sales on Meyers or any of our citrus offerings,” Kristina Lorusso, Regional Business Development Director, reveals to me.
Consumers will have their eyes peeled this winter for retailers who keep the standard high across their citrus programs. And finding a great partner can make that standard happen.
