Naturipe Farms is rolling out the “blue” carpet for conventional blueberries from its Southeast growing region. The berry grower is excited to fill shelves with blueberries in all clamshell sizes, from the single serving 6 oz. clamshell to the 2 lb pack. "Retailers can expect an exceptional crop between mid-April and mid-June," the company says.
Weather always plays a factor in the production of the super fruit in the Southeast, and after two years of unfavorable events like hurricanes and frost, Naturipe will have promotable volumes of high-quality blueberries from Florida and Georgia. There will also be promotable volumes of organic blueberries from the Southeast United States.
“Our growers are producing increased promotable volumes of blueberries and helping our retailers grow sales year after year,” says Brian Bocock, vice president of product management. “We’re excited to return to stellar volumes of our blueberries after a few seasons impacted by adverse weather.”
In addition to the Southeast blueberry season, Naturipe is excited for future seasons of juicy blueberry varieties. Earlier this month, two of Naturipe’s owners, MBG Marketing and Hortifrut, announced that their breeding program, Berry Blue, is partnering with the University of Florida’s program to develop new and proprietary late-season southern highbush blueberry varieties. These berries will be fresh, firm and flavorful with improved consumer appeal and sold under the Naturipe brand.
“We are thrilled at the news of this partnership. We are confident Berry Blue and the University of Florida’s impressive breeding programs will bring incredible tasting blueberries and change the industry for the better,” says Jim Roberts, president of sales. “The results will benefit retailers, consumers and our growers who work hard to deliver high-quality, healthy and irresistible blueberries.”
Naturipe continues to offer year-round availability of its conventional and organic blueberries through its Globally Local™ program. The emphasis the company places on the well-being and success of its growers allows it to be one of the first to market with Florida blueberries, fulfilling East Coast needs and allowing for a smooth transition from Chile to Florida to Georgia.
For more information:
Jackie Hampton
Naturipe
Tel: +1 (443) 814-0693
Jacqueline.hampton@kglobal.com
http://www.naturipefarms.com/