LOS ANGELES, CA - With holiday festivities approaching prime time, and you can bet an abundance of fresh produce is on the menu in homes across the U.S. With everything from an exclusive apple variety to persimmons, berries, and beyond, Giumarra Companies is making sure consumers have everything they need for their tables this season.

“This time of year presents an exciting opportunity for our industry to shine with countless ways to promote fresh produce,” shared Megan Gorgisheli, Vice President, Marketing Administration and Brand, ahead of the holiday. “Fresh produce can elevate the menu by adding flavor and nutrition to all aspects of a holiday meal, including appetizers and drinks. I’m a big believer that you can add produce to anything, and it will always make your dish better! Today’s consumers are eager to learn new ways to amp up their holiday meals; suppliers and retailers can work hand-in-hand to educate them on the many delicious ways to incorporate fresh produce. In-store and online education content and signage, coupled with attractive merchandising, support more produce rings at the register.”

From citrus to berries, apples, persimmons, and avocados, Giumarra Companies has a wide array of offerings to support demand now through the winter holidays. This robust portfolio is backed by a dynamic suite of marketing tools to help maximize demand.

“We work with our retailers on an individual basis to support their seasonal marketing and merchandising strategies,” Megan adds. “Our support includes comprehensive marketing toolkits for key items—the toolkits include customizable signage, recipes, and other resources designed to drive consumer engagement and boost sales.”

Retailers can promote a variety of Giumarra Companies’ offerings this season, including:

• California persimmons, a seasonal favorite with a unique sweet flavor reminiscent of baking spices. The Hachiya variety, which ripens to a jelly-like texture, is great for baking, while the Fuyu variety is crunchy and ready to eat
• A full-service, 52-week avocado program
• Blueberries, blackberries, grapes, and exclusive Lemonade™ apples, which can add color and flavor to a variety of holiday dishes
• Citrus that brings bright, refreshing flavor to any festive table

“For appetizers, produce can be incorporated into ‘small bites’—think of a roasted grape crostini with cheese, or a Butternut squash hummus garnished with pomegranate arils. A variety of fruits and vegetables pair well with cheese, nuts, and savory elements,” Megan advises when it comes to culinary combinations and cross-merchandising inspiration. “Warm sides might include stuffed mushrooms, potato dishes, and other casseroles or roasted vegetable dishes. For a cold side, a hearty salad is a great option, like kale or shredded Brussels sprouts with a great dressing and toppings. Cold sides can also be prepared ahead and travel well. Promoting the convenience aspect resonates with consumers.”

And for dessert? Take a tip out of Megan’s book and prepare a delicious persimmon pudding!

More holiday merchandising insights are on the way to the pages of AndNowUKnow, so keep reading for more.