NORMAN PARK, GA - In an era of the produce industry when there is no longer a “trade show season,” opportunities to connect with current customers and network with potential customers are rampant. What is not so commonplace, however, is being able to come to the table with a unique and innovative line of products. Following the company’s success at the recent Southeast Produce Council (SEPC) Southern Exposure conference, I sat down with Southern Valley’s Dug Schwalls to learn more about the Grab & Go line it had highlighted.

“Grab & Go is a trend we continue to see,” Dug says when I ask him what makes the line so appealing. “Consumers are looking for convenience, and sharp packaging in a grab-and-go bag gives the consumer a feeling of quality, safety, freshness, and overall convenience.”

Currently available in a variety of sizes based on weight or count, as well as an option for its customers to custom-order based on their needs, Southern Valley is now offering the following products as part of the all-encompassing Grab & Go line:

• Salad Cucumbers
• Summer Squash
• Zucchini
• Green Beans
• Mini Sweet Peppers
• Cabbage
• Zucchini Noodles
• Squash Medley
• Bell Pepper
• Jalapeno peppers
• Broccoli
• Cilantro
• Cauliflower
• Tray Pack Corn

With all these items in tow, Dug shares that SEPC was the perfect avenue to further communicate its brand message to the buying community and industry at-large.

“We’ve been members since the early days and we truly believe in what SEPC stands for,” he explains. “SEPC gives back to the companies and communities that are part of the SEPC family like no other organization in the produce industry. It brings together the perfect mix of fellowship, networking, and education opportunities.

So, why exactly has the Grab & Go line found so much success at retail? I tap Dug for his insights on what has garnered the positive response.

“Building brand recognition and loyalty is paramount to having consumers come back time after time to buy a brand that they trust is safe, fresh and nutritious,” Dug explains. “I think what sets our line apart from others on the market is our simple, clean look. Also, the fact that we are a real farm, owned by a real family, operated by real people. The Southern Valley brand is truly who we are.”

If you are interested in finding out more about the custom sizing options and programs that Southern Valley has to offer for this growing line, have I got a team for you to talk to. Check out www.southernvalley.us, and keep checking back with us at AndNowUKnow for the latest developments in fresh produce.

Southern Valley