PRODUCE SALES ON THE RISE
By Adnews Staff
Advertising by the produce industry to raise consumer awareness of the health benefits of fruits and vegetable should help increase consumption, says Find/SVP of New York. A government legislated increase in nutritional labelling could also help boost sales, says the consulting and research firm. Suppliers have traditionally marketed produce to distributors, retailers and the food service industry, but an increase in branded produce has led to an increase in marketing pushes aimed at consumers. Branded produce is the fastest growing segment of the fruit and vegetable market, says Find/SVP. Apples are the biggest sellers, followed by tomatoes, potatoes, citrus fruits, lettuce, onions and celery. Packaged items accounted for 31% of sales last year and bulk products 69%. Find/SVP says that food industry surveys show that the main reason shoppers choose one grocery store over another is because of its produce. About 86% of shoppers buy something once they enter the produce department.