MIAMI, FLORIDA - Cue up the bass and maybe a little saxophone—today we’re talking about the blues. If you’re a frequent reader of ANUK, then you’ve probably already caught on to the fact that I’m not actually talking about music. Instead, we’re going on an exploration of Crystal Valley Foods’ current blueberry production and uncovering the many ways that retailers can harness the grower’s program to their advantage.

“Wintertime in the United States means plenty of blueberries from the Southern Hemisphere, including Chile and Peru,” explains Katiana Valdes, Marketing Director. “Typically, we bring in product from these two countries through March, and then we start sourcing from the Southeast U.S. as it begins to warm up and the industry transitions.”

Crystal Valley imports, packs, and grows blueberries year-round, carrying a variety of sizes including 6 oz and pints. Currently, the grower is transitioning from Peru to Chile, with volume looking good for its blueberry crop.

As Katiana shares, retailers can further drive blueberry sales by merchandising them in a large, prominent, refrigerated cooler space alongside other berry varieties. Grocers should also carry various pack sizes to accommodate different demands and household sizes.

“Consumers are eating more of the superfruit to stay healthy, especially through the winter months, and will opt for larger packs to get their households through the week,” Katiana shares. “Since blueberries are so versatile, they can be cross-merchandised with a variety of items in and out of the produce department. Many shoppers enjoy blueberries as a fresh snack on their own; as ingredients in baked goods, smoothies, salads, and sauces; or to add flavor to breakfast foods or desserts.”

Follow these tips and get shoppers jazzed up about the blueberry category throughout the winter months. And follow along with AndNowUKnow for more market and merchandising insights!

Crystal Valley Foods