CASTROVILLE, CA - Artie the Artichoke is raising two gloved hands in the air à la traffic controller as Ocean Mist® Farms’ winter artichokes come through. The grower’s winter crop is significantly larger than last year’s crops, and I can already hear the hurried feet of shoppers making their way to their local stores.
“This season’s winter crop will be significantly larger than last year’s crop,” Ben Wilson, Artichoke Commodity Manager, tells me happily. “Optimal growing conditions, with few weather-related interruptions, have contributed to strong volumes. This season’s quality is excellent with large sizes expected, mostly 12’s and 18’s.”
Excellent promotional opportunities are making their way to retail shelves come February and early March as the provider’s winter artichokes make up for a smaller-than-normal holiday crop. Ocean Mist grows its winter artichokes mostly in the Coachella Valley and will supplement its supplies with smaller volumes from farms in Baja, Mexico.
“We’re projecting our peak promotional period to run from February 1 through the middle of March, as our volumes are already beginning to increase,” continues Ben. “To help maximize promotions, we have merchandising tools available, including high-graphic display units. We will also be running national consumer social media promotions during the peak harvest periods.”
The grower has one more cause for celebration: a major 100-year milestone is on the horizon! Ocean Mist and Artie himself will be celebrating their 100-year anniversary next year, and Ben says to keep an eye out for exciting activities to come.
Stay in touch with ANUK as we keep a pulse on the seasonal changes and product updates in our industry.
