Randall Freeman of Del Monte Foods Discusses Portfolio Expansion and Product of the Year Award
WALNUT CREEK, CA - Recognition for success in one category is certainly a feat worth celebrating. Extending that success into other categories is the move of an experienced, distinguished produce player. Further building its legacy in the produce department, Del Monte Foods was recently recognized with a Product of the Year award for its Del Monte Fruit Infusions and Joyba Bubble Tea, which topped the fruit snack and coffee and tea categories in a vote by 40,000 consumers.
“Our new Joyba Bubble Tea line taps into consumer demand for bubble tea, as we see a growing trend with Gen Z and other young consumers for tea shop beverages,” says Randall Freeman, Senior Director of Emerging Channels. “We saw an opportunity for Del Monte to enter the category and provide a first-of-its-kind, boba-shop-inspired beverage at retail. Launching it under its own brand, Joyba, allows Del Monte to connect with our targets with a brand positioning that resonates with our consumers.” Joyba can be found in the perimeter of the produce department, as well as in-aisle beverage departments.
With this impressive accolade under its belt, the purveyor is continuing its growth in the snacking space and building on the success of its line of Del Monte fruit cup snacks and multipacks. Introducing the Happy Heart product offerings in May, the supplier is setting its focus on on-the-go products with better-for-you ingredients as it optimizes its snacking portfolio.
“While Del Monte Foods is synonymous with canned fruits and vegetables, we’re continuing the expansion of our grocery footprint into areas that have allowed us to grow, innovate, and differentiate,” Randall adds. “Our innovation is built on our category leadership presence and success with our product lines within the produce department over the past 20-plus years, including launching new Del Monte fruit cup snacks with functional benefits in the produce section.”
Congratulations to Del Monte Foods on being recognized with a Product of the Year award, and for the exciting portfolio expansion that is to come! For the latest in the produce industry, keep an eye out for that little green ANUK logo.
