Retailers

New retail tool: The Tomato Learning Center (TLC), is a special retail education initiative developed by the Fresh Produce Association of the Americas to clarify and update developments within the dynamic tomato category. TLC will be updated a couple times per year about the latest consumers and chain research findings, industry practices, plus retail promotional success stories to help revitalize tomato sales.

 

Consumers rate the produce department high on their list of important factors in finding a good supermarket. Variety, consistent availability of key items, and quality are crucial to maintaining customer loyalty. Fresh fruits and vegetables from Mexico are vital in helping retailers garner customer loyalty. Temperate climates, ideal growing conditions, and advanced farming and packing technology propel Mexico into the ranks of leading produce suppliers anywhere on the globe.

Each year Mexico supplies almost 8 billion pounds of fresh fruits and vegetables to the U.S. That is almost 40 percent of all produce consumed during the winter months alone. Because Mexico benefits from diverse microclimates, growers supply many key produce items all year long. This ability to consistently offer high-quality items from Mexico, even when localized weather events affect one shipper, helps retailers grow their profitability in important produce categories.

The FPAA is also a key contact for retailers looking for information concerning fresh produce from Mexico, including information on: food safety and security programs on Mexican farms, growing and harvesting practices, commodity availability, and support communicating to consumers about Mexican produce. Retailers are encouraged to contact the FPAA with questions regarding produce from Mexico.

In addition, the FPAA sends a periodic newsletter to retailers entitled “News You Can Use.” The purpose of the newsletter is to keep retailers updated with timely and factual information regarding Mexican produce. Since the market is continually in flux, retailers receive periodic updates on various crops being imported from Mexico. If you would like to receive the FPAA’s retailer newsletter, please do not hesitate to contact us.

As always, the FPAA cordially invites you to come to Mexico, visit our farms and see the quality of product for yourselves — a tour could easily be arranged through your suppliers or us. For more information about Mexican crops, to arrange a visit, or learn more about the issues affecting the industry please contact the FPAA at 520-287-2707.