While citrus production in California and Arizona hits its peak during the winter months, demand continues to be strong into summer. “We want to support sales by offering promotional opportunities during this time of the year,” says Joan Wickham with Sunkist. “We have some delicious varieties in-season during the summer.”
Valencia oranges for juicing
“The season for Valencia oranges runs from February through October,” says Wickham. This citrus variety is known for its perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors. “It is a great juicing orange and we are encouraging consumers to try fresh juicing at home – capitalizing on the current health trend,” adds Wickham. To help retailers leverage this trend, Sunkist offers hand juicers that can be given away in store.
Lemons as cocktail ingredient
Lemons are also in season during the summer months. “Tart and refreshing, lemons are the perfect complement to summertime dishes and also wonderful for entertaining,” said Wickham. “With mixology becoming more popular in restaurants and bars, many consumers are now trying their hand at artisan cocktail making at home, ranging from lemonades to mixed drinks and punches.” Sunkist is developing cocktail recipes that consumers can make at home to ‘zest up’ their summer entertaining. Recipe cards are being made available in store as well as through social media.
Grapefruit is nutrient-rich
Grapefruit is available in summer as well. Research has indicated that millennial women are increasing grapefruit consumption. “At Sunkist, we are leveraging this trend by introducing modern uses for grapefruit with the ‘Not Your Mother’s Grapefruit’ campaign. It is aimed at educating younger consumers about this delicious, nutrient-rich superfood.”
First season for organic limes
“For the first time this summer, we will be offering California-grown organic limes to customers. Like lemons, limes are a versatile fruit that can be merchandised throughout the grocery store to encourage purchase with seafood, alcohol and bottled water, for example,” mentioned Wickham.
To increase citrus sales, Sunkist is helping retailers merchandise summer citrus with materials touting the tagline ‘No Substitutes for Fresh’. “Consumers are looking for easy ways to add more fresh ingredients to their favorite recipes, and citrus offers a versatile and easy way to do that,” said Wickham.
For more information:
Joan Wickham
Sunkist
Tel: (+1) 818-379-7430