Situated on the border between California, Arizona and Mexico, the Bard Valley region is a unique area that grows dates. The micro-climate in the Bard Valley can be characterized by intense heat, low humidity, as well as a high water table, providing perfect conditions to grow Medjool dates. "To flourish, dates need 100 days of 100°F weather during the growing season and the Bard Valley region meets those specific conditions," says Bridgette Weber with Bard Valley Natural Delights. While the conditions in the Bard Valley are perfect for growing dates, it's also a delicate balance. "Our close proximity to the Colorado rivers provides us with ample water, yet weather conditions can be unpredictable." Last year, several storms came through the region during harvest season. This year, harvest is off to a great start.
Bard Valley Natural Delights is the largest vertically integrated date supplier in North America. "Being vertically integrated allows us to control every step of the date-growing process," shared Weber. "We own the entire process, from tree to consumer, and perform quality control during each step. Offering a consistent quality and providing our retail partners with specific programs tailored to their needs is our strength. It's a team effort, resulting in a mutual win."
Global expansion – Asia Fruit Logistica
Consistent quality and unique date products have resulted in Bard Valley Natural Delights becoming well known in North America as well as around globe. Southeast Asia, Europe, and Australia are key continents outside North America and are all witnessing a surge in date demand. Today, roughly 80 percent of total volume is sold in North America and the remainder is exported to these three continents. "It is our goal to expand our global presence by bringing more USA-grown Medjool dates to consumers around the globe," shared Weber. To meet with (potential) partners, the company has been actively exhibiting and attending trade shows in different parts of the world.
In line with an increased international presence, Bard Valley Natural Delights will be exhibiting at Asia Fruit Logistica in Hong Kong next week. "This event allows us to meet with multiple Asian partners in one place. Face-to-face meetings are essential in building a relationship and help expand our reach. In addition, spending time in the market allows us to learn more about consumer preferences and how they are evolving." The Asian market holds immense importance for Bard Valley Natural Delights due to the high Muslim population, traditionally a large consumer of high-quality dates. At this year's Asia Fruit Logistica, the focus will be on organic dates. "In the U.S., growth of organic date offerings is outpacing conventional and we're seeing that same trend globally. Therefore, we will be bringing several organic date options to Hong Kong," shared Weber. Shayna Telesmanic, Sales Director – Export Markets and Elsa Salazar, International Sales & Marketing Coordinator will be available to meet at booth 5F05 in Hall 5.
Trend towards smaller packaging
Not only is there a noticeable shift in demand from conventional to organic dates, demand for the different date products is also evolving. Outside North America, whole Medjool dates are still the most popular type of date, but pitted Medjools are rapidly gaining popularity. In addition, pack sizes are changing. "In the past, whole dates and bulk were pretty much the two products shipped overseas," commented Weber. "Today however, the interest in consumer packs is rapidly increasing." Smaller packaging that caters to club retailers and grocery retailers is quickly gaining in popularity as it is a great way for new consumers to enter the category.
Dates in smaller packaging. Left: coconut is the most popular flavor for Mini Medjools. Right: growth in organic dates is outpacing conventional.
Other trade shows
Other trade shows Bard Valley Natural Delights will be exhibiting at in the next few months include the Global Floral & Produce Show in Atlanta (Oct. 17-19), SIAL in Paris (Oct. 19-23), as well as Gulfood in Dubai (Feb. 17-21).
Outside North America, whole Medjool dates are still the most popular type of date.
For more information:
Bridgette Weber
Bard Valley Natural Delights
[email protected]
www.naturaldelights.com