“A new crop of Meyer lemons is beginning harvest,” says Joan Wickham with Sunkist Growers. “The opportunity is ripe for retailers to educate consumers about this distinctive lemon variety.” Thought to be a cross between a conventional lemon and a mandarin, Meyer lemons are a bit sweeter and less acidic than conventional lemons with a refreshing herbal scent – perfect for lemon-based desserts and lemonades. “Available year-round, Meyer lemons are bright yellow to rich yellow-orange with a thin, tender rind that gives them a smooth, soft feel,” added Wickham.
Meyers are gaining popularity
Meyer lemons are growing in popularity among consumers because of their distinctive flavor. As a result, many retailers have started carrying them in addition to conventional lemons. “We are working closely with our trade partners to help them introduce consumers to the variety and build a successful Meyer lemon program,” said Wickham.
Custom point-of-sales materials
“Consumer education is a critical element in driving sales of newer varieties like Meyer lemons,” acknowledged Wickham. Sunkist offers retailers many tools to promote the unique attributes of Meyers, along with usage ideas and recipes. The company is also able to provide this valuable educational information on its point-of-sale materials and now, due to new printing capabilities, it can customize bins and other point-of-sales materials with a one week-lead time. “This allows retailers to quickly execute promotional programs in a way that fits their store’s unique formats and needs,” added Wickham. Meyer lemons are offered in eye-catching pouch bags.
Increased acreage
Sunkist is expecting a very strong Meyer lemon crop, both in terms of quality and quantity. “More acreage is coming into production this year and we should be able to fulfil increasing demand.” Sunkist’s growers produce Meyer lemons in all three of our growing districts that stretch from the San Joaquin Valley (District 1), to Coastal Ventura County (District 2) to the Coachella Valley/Western Arizona (District 3).
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