MADISON, WI - Excitement is swirling as we approach PMA Fresh Summit, and as attendees make their way to the Orlando, Florida-based event, they are ready to welcome the onslaught of showcased innovations to be announced. Among those dazzling the masses are two new flavors for The Little Potato Company’s Microwave and Oven|Grill Ready kits: Roasted Red Pepper & Onion and Tomato Basil. The product line offers fresh Creamer potatoes that cook in minutes.

“We have a line of products that deliver the convenience consumers are seeking. The Microwave Ready and Oven|Grill Ready Kits require no prep and each one includes 1 lb. of fresh Creamer potatoes and a value-added seasoning pack. These products have been out in the market for some time, but we added new flavors that rose to the top in our consumer research and revamped the packaging to make it easier to find and use for the consumer,” Christa Wagner, Director of Advertising and Promotions, tells me. “We’ve done a lot of consumer research over the last couple of years, and what we found was that the people wanted to be able to see the potatoes. Before, we had a sleeve around the packaging; so, there was some confusion—were these pre-cooked, etc.? Now consumers can see the fresh Little Potatoes through the window. Our seasoning packages are now enclosed inside—they used to sit on top.”

The packaging itself is easier to read with nutritional call-outs that are positioned in prime locations. Further, cooking instructions in a prominent location help consumers cook their Little Potatoes. These label upgrades, Christa explains to me, have made the product much easier for consumers to find their preferred flavor and cooking method.

“For the retailer, the newly designed packaging comes in a vertical orientation, which makes for great merchandising opportunities. It comes in a smaller case size for faster turns to maximize assortment. The packaging, from an environmental standpoint, is more sustainable—we have eliminated the paper sleeve. So, it’s really been a win, win, win, win, win!” Christa says happily.

The Little Potato Company is in it to win it, it seems, because with all of the focus on the packaging to meet retailers’ and consumers’ needs, the company has made sure to support its efforts with unique promotions and merchandising opportunities.

“We are supporting our products at the retail level with compelling, transaction-driving materials, as well as with our digital and advertising promotions,” Christa shares. “Our goal is to help change perceptions and transform the way consumers perceive, enjoy, and buy Creamer potatoes. We want to bring excitement back to the potato category.

There are few things I like more than great potatoes, and I can’t wait to try The Little Potato Company’s newest offerings. Which one do you think will be your favorite? Visit them at booth #3381 to find out if your guess is right!

The Little Potato Company