In the high-volume category of fresh watermelon, Maglio's award-winning readyripe® watermelon pouch is now available to grocery retailers.
Sam Maglio, president and CEO of Maglio Companies launched this gusseted pouch concept for fresh quartered watermelon in 2015. “The development of the patented pouch took several years and significant field-testing to perfect it,” says Maglio. “We wanted to get the technology just right.”
The specially formulated technology of the pouch regulates oxygen, carbon dioxide and water vapor transmission rates. The natural respiration of the melon creates and enhances the atmospheric environment, resulting in the quartered watermelon staying fresh for a longer period. In Canada, Maglio Companies has partnered with Missisauga, Ontario based Fresh Line Foods.
Retailer benefits
Time and motion studies with grocers have shown that the readyripe pouch reduces watermelon production time. The overwrap method can take up to three times longer than the readyripe pouch to prepare quarter slices of watermelon for display in the store, and during busy watermelon season.
“There is an added benefit when you cut your production time in half or more,” said Richard Butera, director of business development. 
The specially formulated technology of the pouch regulates oxygen, carbon dioxide and water vapor transmission rates.
Consumer feedback
In-store pilot programs have shown consumers prefer the readyripe pouched quarter watermelon and are willing to pay up to 20 percent more per pound. When Maglio representatives surveyed consumers in-store about their experience, three things rose to the top. Convenience, freshness and no mess.
The quartered watermelon pouch gives retailers options for increasing productivity and profits. The shopping experience is more enjoyable for the consumer who can more easily carry, handle and store the quarter watermelon.
Testimonials
“The watermelon bags have been a game changer for sales and profits. Customers love the fact that it has a handle for easy carrying and for after you open the bag. You can reuse it without having the messy juice all over the place,” said Gary Dapice, director-produce/floral with SpartanNash.
“We don't have to worry about wrapping leaky watermelon anymore, at least for quarters. It also requires less effort for each quarter and saves significant time. You can also have a less experienced employee bag - melon, vs having an experienced employee that would be required to wrap the ¼ sliced melon,” said Bob Hylka, Strack & VanTil, Town & Country produce managers.
For more information:
Richard Butera
Maglio / Readyripe Product Line
Tel: +1 (262) 671-2104
USA cell: +1 (414) 460-8625
rab@magliocompanies.com
www.maglioproduce.com