BRADFORD, ONTARIO, CANADA - Root vegetables have become a destination for shoppers, as their multiple health benefits coincide with their shelf stability. As parsnips and beets gain momentum and take up more and more shelf space, I turned to Gwillimdale Farms to learn what the impact of these two categories is for retailers.

“For St. Patrick’s Day, our biggest mover is parsnips. Our carrot and potato volumes typically rise a bit as well, experiencing a 30 percent to 50 percent boost. But for parsnips? That’s an 800 percent increase,” remarked Quinton Woods, Senior Sales and Plant Operations Manager.

This insane jump occurs in Canada and the Northeastern United States, where parsnips have become quite a sales driver at retail. In order to capitalize on this demand, Quinton suggested putting them front and center.

“Put them where people can find them. Not everybody supplies the root veg that we do. We got a couple root veg that not everybody has, like parsnips and beets. Beets are another potential opportunity mover. The growth in both of these categories is tremendous. Since the COVID-19 lockdown, people are experimenting more than ever before, so it’s important for retailers to ensure that they’re readily available because they’re doing really well. And St Patty’s Day is a perfect opportunity to showcase that,” he explained.

Beets are holding their own, taking up space on the shelf. Thanks to cello bags, and pre-packaged 2 and 5 lb beets, growth is imminent.

As these two categories build momentum, I imagine we’ll be seeing sales opportunities for them on multiple holidays.

Stay tuned with us here at AndNowUKnow as we cover the latest in fresh produce news.

Gwillimdale Farms