Pummelos in California will start to be picked next week. For Kings River Packing, it’s the first season the company is shipping the fruit and the season will go from October through March.
While Pummelos have been available for some time, it is still a unique citrus item for consumers, even with its flavor being reminiscent of a grapefruit. “While grapefruit is a staple item, Pummelos are still new for most consumers giving retailers an opportunity to fill the growing demand for unique flavors and cuisine by adding Pummelos to the category during their short season,” says Michelle Alo. Even though they’ve been available, consumers are still very much learning how to use them and Kings River Packing recommends support programs to help familiarize consumers with the fruit--from cutting it in-store so people can see what it looks like, or using digital content or signage and recipe ideas to help educate consumers.
Higher per-volume price
For the citrus grower-shipper, it also offers category opportunities. “It seems like Pummelos are flat year over year as far as growth which if you compare it to grapefruit, is doing pretty well given grapefruit has struggled,” says Alo, noting promotable volume will be available from November to February. “The price per volume on Pummelos is a lot higher. Price per volume on grapefruit is about $1.47 whereas on Pummelos it’s $2.86.”
Pummelos is an item Kings River Packing will also be introducing at this year’s Global Produce & Floral Show on October 19-21 in Anaheim, California. At its booth, #4557, it will launch its Pummelo product in a four and five-count bag and also in a bulk case. “We’re also showcasing our new recyclable packaging in the Fresh Ideas Showcase,” says Alo. “The line will include a four-count tray for organic citrus for Raspberry Oranges®, navels and Cara Caras this year. We’re also launching a six-count Heirloom (navels) in the same recyclable packaging to meet the growing consumer demand for enhanced recyclable packaging.”
For more information:
Michelle Alo
Kings River Packing
[email protected] https://kingorange.com/