CHELAN, WA - Punxsutawney Phil predicted an early spring for 2020, one that we will get a taste of when we head to Tampa, Florida, later this month for the Southeast Produce Council’s annual Southern Exposure.

“I’m definitely looking forward to that warm weather,” Mac Riggan, Director of Marketing for Chelan Fresh, tells me as we talk about what to look forward to for the event. “It’s cold up here in Washington!”

For his part, Mac is bringing some of the best of the state with him to the show as the Chelan team gears up to showcase its on-point packaging, variety of displays and POS materials, merchandisers, and offerings.

“We will be featuring our organic pouch bag packaging, which we love because it’s very clear and concise. In an instant the consumer knows they are buying an organic apple, they know how much they are buying, where it’s from, and what variety,” Mac says. And the consumer isn’t the only one benefiting from the knowledge gleaned from the bags. “There is so much shrink at the store level due to misrings, and this deters those losses for the retailer and brings that value back to the store.”

Another way Chelan is maximizing value for its retail partners is through its new, innovative cherry Top Seal pack.

“Our new cherry packaging featuring our Top Seal uses less plastic than the conventional clamshell, and is tamper-proof. Again, serving both our customers and theirs,” Mac emphasizes.

And of course, the company’s signature Rockit™ apples will be on display in the recently launched 3 lb shuttle pack, as well as 2 lb pouch bags.

“Something I love about the Rockit apple is it’s so consistent, it’s the most dependable fruit I have ever eaten,” he points out, before speaking to the variety of fruit Chelan offers to suit every palate.

Also in attendance will be Chelan’s KORU® apples, both in bulk and 2 lb pouches, and SugarBee® apples in bulk and 2 lb bags. The former will be just in time for the last surge of its season, meaning that those that want in on it before it's gone will likely be grateful for a visit to Chelan while in Tampa.

Speaking of attendance, this is the show to be at on the whole for buyers looking to innovate their department and those that want to meet them, Mac explained.

“Southern Exposure is a valuable show for Chelan Fresh because there are always a lot of retail decision makers. The Southeast Produce Council makes it easy for retailers to attend, and it shows,” he shares.

Chelan Fresh also aligns well with this year’s theme, Making a Difference, being actively involved in both local and international communities throughout several different programs. If you are looking for a brand with stories to share that will make you and your customers feel their support is going to a good cause, definitely swing by booth #317 and talk to the team about all that the cooperative has been a part of.

Catch you in the Florida sunshine this February 27 - 29!

Chelan Fresh