"Testa di Chicco" (Grape Head), the company mascot is a simple wooden man with the head shaped like a white grape, a grape leaf cloak and a different ribbon for every occasion. "Testa di Chicco" is a sort of superhero that protects the quality of plants - a modern farmer, always attentive to the latest trends.
He explains, "we are a little early with respect to the seasonal trend. This was caused by the mild and sunny weather during March. If things carry on like this, plants will soon blossom. Currently all lots are protected by plastic films to prevent any damage a sudden temperature change could cause."
Plastic films create the perfect microclimate for plants, so "we can reduce phytosanitary intervention and avoid wasting water."
"Le Avventure di Testa di Chicco" (The Adventures of Grape Head) section is getting more popular as the character has started appearing on social networks more frequently. His selfies (which depict him smiling next to a bud or reading a book by Giorgio Boatti) are all over the web.
Racemus is counting on this character to act as a go-between with the internet public. It has registered its name and the concept so that, in the future, it can transform it into a well-known brand. Testa di Chicco can stimulate the fantasy of both children and adults and might even promote grape consumption.
"The 2013 campaign wasn't very good. Sales went down and so did prices, as people bought less fruit and vegetables because of the economic crisis," says Testa di Chicco.
Consumption must improve, and therefore Racemus has invested in new varieties, a brand new packaging and special promotions. Together with APOC Salerno PO, the company is working on special offers directly in stores and fairs, using all the instruments the EU has provided.
Most of the vineyards are currently being modernised and new seedless red and late white varieties are being introduced. In addition, new systems have been put in place to improve both working conditions and the quality of the produce.
"We also introduced pomegranates. The Wonderful variety will be sold as of 2015 under the GRANATUM brand," concludes Testa di Chicco.
Contacts:
Teresa Diomede
Gruppo Racemus
Viale del Commercio lotto 17-19
70018 Rutigliano (BA)
Tel.: (+39) 0804761325
Fax: (+39) 0804725731
Email: info@racemus.com
Web: www.racemus.com
Rosario Ferrara - Director Coordinator
APOC SALERNO
Via R. Wagner K1 (P.co Arbostella)
84131 - Salerno
Tel.: +39 (0)89 331758
Cell.: +39 331 2663528
Email: ferrara@apocsalerno.it
Web: www.apocsalerno.it