PALM DESERT, Calif. — From new products to new promotions, exhibitors at the West Coast Produce Expo enthusiastically connected with customers and potential customers to share the latest fresh produce innovations at the JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort and Spa June 1.
Molly's Grape & Citrus Co. shared samples of its premium Molly's grapes and flavorful gelato made from Molly's citrus, fig and more.
The company's brand instigator, John Cymbal, was on hand to talk about Molly's “Pink Bag Promise.”
“If it's in a pink bag, it's going to be Molly good,” Cymbal said.
“We're always looking to find opportunities,” he continued. “In a sea of sameness, we've set our standards high with a premium product at an attainable price.”
The company also touted its new website that launched May 31.
From left, the Idaho Potato Commission's Patrick Mills, Matt Zapczynski and Ross Johnson are shown at West Coast Produce Expo.
“We're here to support retailers in helping them grow the potato category,” said the Idaho Potato Commission's Ross Johnson at West Coast Produce Expo.
With that in mind, the commission featured its “Create Your Own Adventure” initiative, which offers retailers the option to spend or save up promotional dollars to create experiences such as a visit to Idaho to meet grower-shippers, a team-building adventure during potato harvest, attendance at an industry conference and much more.
“We're trying to be a lot more flexible in our approach to promotional campaigns,” Ross added.
Mariani Nut Co.'s Kristen Holden and Darryl Bollack talk snacking at West Coast Produce Expo.
Mariani Nut Co. featured its Organic Whole Almonds and Organic Shelled Walnuts in packaging made from recycled materials.
“We're taking a hard look at snacking,” said Darryl Bollack. Mariani's Kristen Holden added that some new snacking items are also in the works.
The Avocado Queen dream team, from left: Rodrigo Aboumrad, Jade Barajas, Mario Leon, Clarissa Martinez, Natalia Merienne, Claudia Escalante, Pablo Merienne and Eddie Martinez.
Avocado Queen brought its extended team to West Coast Produce Expo. “This is an amazing show,” said Natalia Merienne. “It's so cozy and the perfect size to get to know a lot of potential customers. We've had the opportunity to talk with buyers and find solutions.”
From left, Great Lakes Greenhouses' Justin Henkel and Mike Faul shared their enthusiasm for greenhouse-grown, organic vegetables at West Coast Produce Expo.
Canadian greenhouse grower Great Lakes Greenhouses showcased its Organic Bell Peppers. “Everyone is excited about these peppers,” said Mike Faul. “We saw the people we needed to see at this show and everyone has been really engaged.”
From left: Hyfood's Daniel Carlos, Luis Valdez and Diego Acosta talk greenhouse grown at West Coast Produce Expo.
Hyfood, one of the first-time West Coast Produce Expo exhibitors, featured its specialty, hydroponic, greenhouse-grown peppers from Mexico.
The company is currently exporting to Texas with plans to come to California, said Diego Acosta.
Related:
- Seen and heard at West Coast Produce Expo 2024 — Part 1
- Seen and heard at West Coast Produce Expo 2024 — Part 2
- Seen and heard at West Coast Produce Expo 2024 — Part 3
- Seen and heard at West Coast Produce Expo 2024 — Part 4