SALINAS, CA - The clock is winding down on time for buyers to prepare for their holiday merchandising strategies, and Ippolito International wants to give them a helping hand. Backed by good quality and ample supply, the grower is spotlighting broccoli as a hot item this fall and winter as shoppers search for familiar yet versatile products for their gatherings.

“Cross-promotion and serving suggestions are key with broccoli, especially in the fall. With the weather changing and temperatures cooling off in the Northern Hemisphere, broccoli tastes superb roasted alongside chicken, beef, pork, and fish,” says Jacob Abramson, Commodity Manager, Broccoli. “Holidays bring about more get-togethers, and while cut vegetable crudites are an easy, festive finger food at parties, broccoli can absolutely be more creative! Think broccoli florets with a light dressing tossed with cranberries, almonds, and sunflower seeds. Cross-promoting with packaged dried fruits or condiments alongside a recipe suggestion will help consumers expand on their broccoli repertoire.”

With these ideas now floating around buyers’ heads, broccoli is the next thing they need to complete their holiday displays. Currently, Ippolito is approaching the tail end of its Salinas, California, growing season. It is getting ready to transition to Yuma, Arizona, and San Luis, Mexico, in early- to mid-November. Despite triple-digit temperatures in the area for consecutive days, the grower’s broccoli quality remains good.

“Quality-wise, we are seeing very tight uniform heads and good shape, bead color, and appearance on both crowns and bunches. The triple-digit heat from two weeks has affected some of our lots this week just like much of the industry has, but overall, our quality is holding up very nicely,” explains Jacob.

Over the last several weeks, Ippolito experienced heavier than usual volume but is anticipating that it will dip before ramping up again as we head into October. As temperatures begin to lower and days start to shorten as we enter the fall season, broccoli supplies will be affected, and therefore market prices will shift for the category.

“Overall, supplies are tightening up, and markets are strengthening, resulting in prices in the low twenties for crowns and high teens on bunches," remarks Jason. "Ippolito has seen excellent demand, especially from our broccoli floret program and commodity side. We look forward to serving our customers through the balance of the Salinas season and into the Yuma winter season.”

With these valuable insights, buyers, go forth and conquer your holiday produce strategies! And don’t forget to add Ippolito’s broccoli to your aisles to boost register rings.

Ippolito International