IFCO Wood Grain RPCs Arrive at Walmart Grower Facilities in Record Time
TAMPA, FL - Part of the company’s newfound deal with Walmart, IFCO’s new Wood Grain Reusable Plastic Containers (RPCs) have officially entered the produce supply chain, and the first of an anticipated 30 million have been shipped to fresh produce growers.
The first Walmart supplier to receive IFCO Wood Grain RPCs, Kings River Packaging of Sanger, California, was delighted to be able to use the new containers, said company President David Hines.
“These RPCs represent everything we’ve come to know and appreciate about IFCO RPC quality,” Hines added. “The IFCO Wood Grain RPC features of additional vertical ribbing and enhanced latching are first-rate, and detailed wood grain texture really looks great. We think the retail customer will love it once in store.”
Announced last October, the Wood Grain RPCs will be used for Walmart’s both wet and dry produce, initially including apples, potatoes, onions, and citrus items.
“Walmart customers deserve the very best shopping experience,” explained Dorn Wenninger, Vice President of Produce for Walmart U.S. “That means the best possible quality at the lowest possible price. Wood Grain RPCs are one of many changes we’re making to improve our overall fresh produce customer experience.”
According to IFCO, the development of its Wood Grain RPCs has required millions of dollars in investments. Undergoing extensive, months-long real world and laboratory testing to verify functionality and product protection capabilities, the containers were designed to Walmart's specifications and incorporated feedback received from the grower community.
“IFCO has designed an innovative and unique fresh produce packaging solution that benefits growers, retailers and ultimately consumers,” added Daniel Walsh, President of IFCO North America. “Wood Grain RPCs have all the benefits of traditional RPCs with aesthetic appeal that helps them transition seamlessly from transportation and storage to in-store display.”
In the United States, IFCO’s Wood Grain RPCs are 100% sourced and manufactured in America and meet the Federal Trade Commission’s standard for its “Made in the USA” country of origin label, the company says. In addition, IFCO Wood Grain RPCs are cleaned and sanitized at one of six US service centers throughout their life cycle.
