Nogales, AZ – As part of its continuing efforts to help retailers maximize sales of key commodities, Farmer’s Best, the premier Mexico produce distributor in Nogales, has just released the first of its mango tip sheets.
“With less than one third of U.S. consumers eating mangos, we see this as a great opportunity for retailers to better understand ways they can use this commodity to help build a competitive market position.” explains marketing and sales director Jerry Wagner.
Wagner adds that some retailers are not aware that over 60% of mangos available in the U.S. come from Mexico. Their country’s mango season began last month and goes into Fall. “It’s a long season, with multiple varieties that can benefit from savvy handling.”
Using information from EMEX (Mexico Mango Growers Assn.) as well as the USDA, U.C. Davis, and the National Mango Board, along with its own proprietary research, the company plans on releasing “quick & easy” guides that are no more than one sheet, front and back. The first one, to be downloadable from its retailer blog site www.farmersbestinfo.wordpress.com as well as in print from via its merchandisers and sales staff, reviews seasonal availability and proper ripening temperature charts.
This initiative is part of Farmer’s Best’s continuing effort to help educate retailers during a challenging economic times when chain educational resources may be tight. The company began this effort during the 2009 season with its 60+ page Maximizing Tomato Marketing Guidebook, co-developed with former retailer and industry leader Dick Spezzano and currently in the hands of more than 30 receivers in the U.S. and Canada. The Guidebook was expanded earlier this season to feature highlights from a tomato consumer study as well as ripening protocols and a new ripening thermometer for back room use.
Farmer’s Best announced in late 2010 its exclusive partnership with the Castrezana family of mango growers, along with significant expansion of warehouses in both Nogales and McAllen in expectation of doubling its volume of Ataulfos this season. Other varieties such as Haden, Tommy, Ken and Keitt will be available from the company later this month.
Farmer’s Best is a vertically-integrated agribusiness operation owned by the Tarriba family, shipping to the U.S. and Canada for over 40 years now. They grow mainly cucumbers, tomatoes, bell peppers, grapes, mangos, watermelons, among other fruits and vegetables.
In addition to comprehensive food safety, social responsibility and sustainability programs, the company also runs its own bird and turtle sanctuary. All sales in the North America are handled from offices in Nogales, AZ. The company currently distributes from Nogales, AZ , McAllen, Texas and Chula Vista, CA.
Source: Farmer’s Best