New Sweet Red Onion, Expansions, and More Join G&R Farms Peruvian Lineup; Walt Dasher Discusses Growth in Leadup to SEPC's Southern Innovations
GLENNVILLE, GA - New products and expansions are just the sort of additions that align with Southeast Produce Council’s (SEPC) Southern Innovations. With all of the above to share, G&R Farms will be a destination booth for attendees come September.
“We are excited to add fresh sweet red onions to our Peruvian availability this season starting in October,” Walt Dasher, Vice President, disclosed. “This is a new item for us, but a natural extension as this item has been growing in consumer use and interest. The Peruvian soil is perfect for growing a high-flavor, high-quality onion to supplement our Peruvian sweet program and offer more category value to our buyers.”
2022 has been a dynamic year for G&R Farms, which is not only welcoming the new onion to its portfolio but has also made improvements to its Peruvian growing operations, including expanded organic acreage, expanded packing shed facilities, and new dryers and upgraded packing equipment. As we discussed what has driven these steps, Walt said the growth of the Peruvian onion market is about the growth of the Vidalia onion market.
“Sweet onions make up over 35 percent of the onion category, making the availability of a sweet onion option in fall and winter months critical to category sales and success,” he explained, adding how consistent quality and flavor of Vidalia onions played a critical role in building the fresh sweet onion category, establishing consumer interest and trust. “G&R has been a leader in the sweet onion industry for three generations. We understand the importance of sweet onions and fresh onions to category success in both volume and sales.”
As such, continuing to provide better facilities that can deliver high quality to meet growing demand is critical. Another critical aspect, of course, is presence in our industry and its events.
“Our industry thrives on personal relationships. We can’t do business solely over Zoom and not shake hands, especially when we deal in perishable products,” Walt said, circling back to the importance of regional shows like Southern Innovations. “It’s so important to meet face to face and get to know each other so we can build rapport and understand the needs of our buyers, as well as share key information about our products and growing regions and together make plans to drive sales.”
So, do not miss the chance to swing by booth #618 in Nashville, Tennessee, September 22–24, 2022.
