YUMA, AZ & BELLE GLADE, FL - Now is the time to put those Iceberg lettuce promotions into play, as strong supply and good quality pave the way for increased retail opportunities. I recently connected with Duda Farm Fresh Foods to discuss the current Iceberg lettuce market, as well as the advantages of the company’s Florida program.

“Quality has been great in both Yuma, Arizona, and Belle Glade, Florida,” Alan Ediger, Vice President of Sales, reports. “Markets have been very tough since Christmas. Demand has been low, with ice storms and weather across the country. With high supply and low demand, pricing has been soft this winter.”

This strong supply and good quality present opportunities for retailers to help fuel Iceberg lettuce demand. As Alan shares, this can be achieved through strategic promotions and cross-merchandising strategies.

“Cross-promoting lettuce with other items for salads or sandwiches typically yields successful results in terms of sales. This could look like placing salad toppings or dressings near/in the lettuce section of your store or providing recipe cards to encourage Iceberg lettuce usage on homemade deli sandwiches,” Alan advises. “Furthermore, offering coupons and savings for buying complimenting items listed above can also help promote sales.”

One of the key elements of success for Duda Farm Fresh Foods is the strength of its Florida program, which increases its capabilities in terms of fast-paced order fulfillment and adapting to challenges posed by the weather.

“One of our biggest advantages is our Florida program. Our ability to service customers on the East Coast with overnight deliveries of quality lettuce sets us apart from our competitors,” Alan adds. “It also enables us to shift customers from Arizona to Florida and back should there be any weather or issue with either crop.”

ANUK will continue to provide more insights into the Iceberg lettuce market and beyond, so be sure to stick around for our next update!