Steve Shearer Discusses Bravante Produce's Citrus Marketing Evolution and Investments
REEDLEY, CA - With a new marketing strategy elevating Bravante’s game this winter, the produce purveyor is taking its value proposition to the next level with customers and reporting a strong crop, high-graphic merchandising support, and a program tailored to the needs of its U.S. customers.
Sales Manager Steve Shearer took a beat with me to discuss the state of winter citrus here in California and what customers can expect as we begin to put January in our rearview mirror.
“Bravante has made great strides and investments this past year to ensure that our new in-house marketing strategy meets the needs and demands of our retail partners,” Steve shares with me. “Generating more consumer recognition with the Branvate Produce brand has built a new level of value into our vision and allows us to expand our commitment to our customers even further and with more advantages and benefits—from custom packaging to merchandising materials.”
As Steve notes, quality has been exceptional across the company’s portfolio of Navel oranges, lemons, and Cara Caras, and high brix remain an attribute for all varieties.
“Our quality, customer service, and go-to-market strategy have helped us grow our new partner base as we ramp up staff and production in 2021,” Steve says.
Bravante Navels and lemons will be available through May in bulk boxes and 4 lb bags, while lemons will be showcased in the same options and with additional new 2 lb standup pouch bag packaging. Cara Caras will be available into April and dressed to impress with similar packaging options as well. Have a need to fill in the packaging arena? Just bend the ear of Bravante.
“George Bravante, our Founder, has done extensive planning to bring us to where we are today, developing the right fruit and rootstock, and investing in the most ideal locations and ranches,” Steve expresses. “It has always been his dream to bring a premium brand focusing on executing high-level fruit quality to market and this season has hit all those milestones and then some.”
There are few things quite like a bright, flavorful piece of citrus to brighten up a cool winter’s day—or produce department—here in the Northern Hemisphere. And Bravante Produce’s customers know it.
