As the New Year kicks off, Progressive Produce is excited to highlight its commitment to health and wellness through its Nature's Bounty Organic program that includes a comprehensive lineup of organic potatoes, onions, yams, citrus, and asparagus.
The program’s roots date back to 2007 when the company recognized the growing demand for organic produce. "Customers were beginning to ask for organics, and Progressive already had a network of potato and onion growers we were working with, so it made that much more sense," explains Gael Vazquez, VP of Procurement & Grower Relations.
Expansion
Over the years, this program has expanded significantly, evolving from primarily local supply sources to growing and sourcing from over six states and three different countries. Progressive Produce now boasts multiple packing and shipping points staffed with personnel across the West Coast, ensuring year-round availability of organic products.
"Good people make the biggest difference, and we have a great team and work with great people. The growers we work with are always working to improve their quality and standards. I always preach about our service because I can’t emphasize it enough," Vazquez emphasizes. "Our relentless dedication to understanding customer needs is reflected in its ability to source from various regions, ensuring a consistent supply that meets specific program requirements."
Vazquez also highlights the current promotional opportunities, stating, "Good supply and great quality are available. This is the right time to showcase organics." Potatoes are a rich source of essential nutrients like potassium, fiber, and vitamins, while onions provide antioxidants and are low in calories. Both are versatile ingredients that can be used in a variety of healthy recipes to support your wellness journey.
Customers can choose from various packaging options, including 50 LB bulk cartons for potatoes, 40 LB bulk cartons for onions, and consumer bags in sizes like 1.5 LB, 3 LB, 5 LB for potatoes, and 2 LB, 3 LB for onions.
Organic citrus
In addition to the thriving organic potato and onion program, Progressive Produce is making significant strides in the organic citrus market. Veronica Rodarte, Chili, Citrus & Herb Commodity Manager, shares insights about their organic citrus program: "We entered the bulk citrus market in 2016, followed by organics shortly after. We've expanded by partnering with growers in all California citrus regions and Mexico."
Rodarte continues, "Our peak supply for organic navels is right now. Although volume is slightly down this year due to intense rains and increased pest pressure in California in 2023, the fruit tastes exceptional, and the cool nights have made it extra sweet."
Progressive Produce has also expanded its offerings to include conventional and organic mandarins with flexible packaging options to meet customer preferences.
"Keeping a consistent display of organic citrus in bulk and bags and promoting the high Vitamin C content and health benefits provides an ideal environment for reaching out to consumers," Rodarte suggests. "Additionally, advertising organic citrus with other organic items can also improve sales of the entire category."
For more information:
Dr. Oscar Guzman
Progressive Produce
Tel: (+1) 323-890-8100
oscar@progressiveproduce.com
www.progressiveproduce.com