GLENNVILLE, GA - As they peruse the aisles, shoppers are likely to gravitate toward products they feel a genuine connection to. That connection is undeniable when consumers pick up an onion from G&R Farms, as they are immediately transported to the vast family farm from which that onion sprouted. This is the result of a quality product encapsulated in an alluring package filled with history. I recently sparked a conversation with the Vice President of G&R Farms, who gave me exclusive details surrounding the grower’s recent operational innovations, a packaging revamp, the current onion season, and more.

“We are continuing to add new equipment and facility upgrades, including refreshing our packaging line to make our facilities more efficient so we can pack more volume and offer increased versatility in terms of sizes and styles,” explains Walt Dasher, noting how these crucial changes meet an uptick in demand. “We have also upgraded our cooling facilities. As demand continues to increase for packaged products, our upgrades allow us to offer efficient solutions for retailers looking for better consumer solutions.”

To help retailers maximize the excitement surrounding the category, G&R Farms has launched new, family-focused packaging and point-of-sale materials highlighting its multi-generation family farm. The newly designed packaging provides consumers with a deeper connection and understanding of where their food is grown—a trend that Walt sees as part of 2020’s impact on consumer buying behaviors.

“Last year’s pandemic-driven cooking and stock-up behaviors played well for staple items like onions, and we continue to see that steady demand going into this year’s Vidalia® season,” Walt adds.

The onion market and pricing have remained steady, and with normal volumes coming out of Vidalia, Georgia, retailers can capitalize on promotional opportunities to meet demand during the anticipated season. Despite challenges posed by Mother Nature, G&R Farms’ crop is shaping up to be consistent quality and size, with volume looking good across the category.

“Early on, the cooler, wet weather had everyone watching what would happen, but the onions survived those adverse conditions, and perfect weather since has made for ideal growing conditions as the crop comes into season putting on final size,” concludes Walt.

Buyers, what are you waiting for? Build the connection so many consumers are looking for by bringing an offering with both history and charm to your produce departments.

AndNowUKnow will continue to tell you all you need to know about the fresh produce industry, so keep a tab open.

G&R Farms