MIAMI, FL - Who would the AndNowUKnow team be if we didn’t seek out some exclusive merchandising insights ahead of a sales-driving holiday? With Mother’s Day just on the horizon, we’re uncovering all retailers need to know to make the produce department a go-to destination for shoppers. Today’s tips and tricks come straight from Crystal Valley Foods.

“Mother’s Day falls right as the warmer months are rolling in and when some of our favorite fruits and veggies are at their best,” explains Katiana Valdes, Marketing Director. “Crystal Valley blackberries, blueberries, Brussels sprouts, and, of course, our asparagus make for the perfect Mother’s Day lineup.”

Each of these items makes for a great addition to the traditional Mother’s Day breakfast or brunch spread. Brussels sprouts are already a popular brunch side when paired with meats and hams, and asparagus is rising as a brunch item due to its versatility in quiches, frittatas, and other egg dishes.

“Cross-merchandising with complementary products—specifically for breakfast and brunch in this case—is always a great way to help promote produce items,” Katiana shares. “For example, retailers can cross-merchandise blackberries and blueberries with yogurts, granolas, pancake mixes, bakery items, and even orange juice or champagne for customers that want to get creative with a mimosa bar.”

As Katiana advises, retailers can make these items stand out by adding them to a prominent, large, end-cap display with signage for Mother’s Day. Displaying these products in other parts of the store can also help increase impulse purchases.

In addition to its bulk Brussels sprouts, Crystal Valley also recently introduced a 1 lb microwavable Brussels sprouts bag. On the berry side, the supplier has begun shipping Georgia blueberries, with the season expected to run through mid-June. June will also bring Alabama-grown blueberries to shelves, and the provider is also reporting conventional and organic blackberries are available.

“Spring holidays are always fantastic opportunities to promote produce, and there is no better one than the day we celebrate Mom. People are typically making breakfast or hosting brunches and dinners for the celebration, and they are looking to include fresh, in-season items,” Katiana adds. “It’s a great time to remind consumers of the plentiful fruits and veggies available at this time of year.”

For more merchandising tips in the lead-up to this produce-centric holiday, keep reading AndNowUKnow.

Crystal Valley Foods