In the past decade, organic produce has become more mainstream. "When we first started with a dedicated organics department about 12 years ago, it was small," says George Tsigakis, heading up Canadawide's organics division. "At the time, organic produce wasn't affordable. However, over the years, the supply of organic produce has increased significantly, and consumer prices have come down." As a result of improved affordability, more and more consumers are inclined to purchase produce that's organically grown. During times of heavy organic supply, Tsigakis occasionally witnesses conventional produce being more expensive than organics. Examples include broccoli, cauliflower, celery as well as berries.
Canadawide sells more than 40,000 SKUs of produce annually and whatever is offered in conventional, is also offered as an organic alternative. "To make this happen, we import organic produce from all over the world," said Tsigakis. "When we're importing lemons, we bring in both conventional and organic from the same sourcing country."
George Tsigakis
Fairtrade organic
One of the most popular organic produce items is bananas, especially Fairtrade organic bananas. "Over the years, Fairtrade Canada has done such a good job creating awareness for Fairtrade that it really caught on with consumers." Growth has been tremendous and following Fairtrade bananas, a Fairtrade avocado program was launched early last year. Canadians are increasingly including Fairtrade products in their purchases, resulting in a growing interest from retailers to offer Fairtrade organic.
This time of year, organic berries are very popular. "It's peak season out of California and we're seeing lots of promotions," commented Tsigakis. In addition, organic stone fruit from California is in high demand and organic melon harvest is just starting up, which is the next promotable organic item. California is also supplying Canada with organic citrus fruit this time of year. Earlier this spring, there was a lot of resistance from Canadian consumers to buy U.S. grown produce. "However, it is a matter of availability. This time of year, California is the sole supplier of many organic items. More regions will come into production in summer, but if a consumer can't wait that long, they may have no choice than to buy California grown." There seems to be less resistance compared to a few months ago, but retailers are still careful with promoting U.S grown items. Promotions are limited to in-store ads.
For more information:
George Tsigakis
Canadawide
Tel: (+1) 514-246-4975
[email protected]
www.canadawidefruits.com