“However, I still think that strawberries remain America’s favorite due to the special nature of the fruit, always signaling the beginning of spring and all the great experiences, holidays and gatherings that go with it,” Jewell said.
“Strawberries carry an emotional connection with each of us, and we make sure at Bobalu to savor the relationship people have with berries and with our brand,” she continued. “Retailers know that strawberries are a huge sales contributor to their produce department and overall store sales, and they use them to pull people into the produce department.”
PACKAGING REDESIGN
Jewell said Bobalu redesigned its clamshell packaging this year, which is reducing miles of gas emissions as a result with freight efficiencies.
“We are also now utilizing 95% post-consumer recycled plastic in our clamshells along with fully recyclable labels,” she said.
FOODSERVICE/RETAIL DEMAND RISING
Despite some economic troubles in the U.S., Jewell said Bobalu has found that foodservice demand is up.
“We don’t see consumers cutting back on buying our berries at retail or through foodservice partners,” she said.
In today’s climate, Jewell said it is important that consumers find top quality berries on display to ensure repeat purchases.
“We definitely see continued room for growth in the entire category,” she said. “We also see that consumers are buying larger pack sizes on a regular basis throughout the year, a shift created during COVID that stayed.”
Also, with innovation in the berry category — including limited unique varieties, larger or smaller boutique berries and hydroponic options — consumers continue to be drawn to the category and be intrigued with its options, Jewell said.
