Whether as an ingredient in a fresh salad, panfried with eggs, or grilled on a barbecue: Chinese consumers share their ways of preparing Rijk Zwaan's Sweet Palermo®. "For me, their enthusiasm is the most inspiring part of our campaign," says Vivan Wang, Marketing Director at Dole China. This sweet pointed pepper brand will be showcased at the Rijk Zwaan booth at Asia Fruit Logistica.
Dole and Rijk Zwaan have much in common. "Rijk Zwaan's centenary celebrations began in July, and in the same month, Dole Banana celebrated its 125-year anniversary. Just as we've done for the past 125 years, we will continue working with our business partners to move forward and bring more healthy, functional and fashionable fresh products to the market. Sponsoring marathons in Beijing, Shanghai, Hangzhou and Wuxi is one way we encourage a healthy lifestyle in China," comments Vivan Wang.
Sweet Palermo is popular on TikTok
Rijk Zwaan's Sweet Palermo fits in with such a lifestyle. "We supply this sweet pepper to 20 Sam's Club membership retail stores. Additionally, our e-commerce sales are nearing 100,000 online orders, with overwhelmingly positive feedback," Vivan adds. "Sweet Palermo is becoming very popular on social media platforms like TikTok. Consumers like the four colours of Sweet Palermo. The taste, flavour and freshness enhance their experience, not to mention the nutritional value Sweet Palermo offers."
Introduction
Sweet Palermo was introduced to the Chinese market a few years ago in close collaboration with Rijk Zwaan, explains Vivan. "We planned and implemented the entire supply chain together, from planting and harvesting to packaging, logistics, sales and marketing. We communicated and shared resources at each step. As demand increased, we needed more growers. Rijk Zwaan used its national network to find and recommend high-quality growers, and helped them meet supply chain standards to ensure healthy and steady project development."
Fujisawa RZ matches evolving needs
In autumn 2023 came the next successful joint introduction: Melon Fujisawa RZ, marketed as 'Red flesh melon, Dole'. "The stability of the Brix, flavour and size of the melon matched the evolving needs of Chinese consumers. We received lots of positive feedback from customers in the wholesale market. We work closely together with the Rijk Zwaan team to maintain a year-round supply and continue satisfying our customers. Rijk Zwaan's extensive network in China is impressive. We truly enjoy working with their sincere and efficient team," states Vivan enthusiastically.
Developments
Dole China will continue to innovate in the future, assures Vivan. "Our next introduction will be Tatayoyo, Rijk Zwaan's star sweet pepper product. We trust Rijk Zwaan to continuously support us in all aspects. We will keep surprising our customers together with safe, healthy and high-quality fresh products, just like we've both been doing for more than 100 years."
Rijk Zwaan is present at Booth 5N14 at Asia Fruit Logistica
For more information:
Rijk Zwaan
www.rijkzwaan.com/100years