Retailers nationwide took on the "Comin' in Hot" campaign, crafting displays that highlighted the various ways to enjoy the sweet and spicy flavors of Florida sweet corn, according to a news release.
Running from April 8 to May 31, the contest challenged produce departments to create attractive displays, making sweet corn the centerpiece. Tapping into the 2024 food trend of spicy-sweet flavors, the campaign offered consumers numerous ways to incorporate sweet corn into their meals, the release said.
The displays were judged on several criteria: effective use of the provided display materials, the salability and prominence of the sweet corn, visual appeal, and overall merchandising creativity. The contest saw enthusiastic participation from retailers, resulting in outstanding displays that captivated customers and drove significant sales, the release said.
Winners included:
- Grand Prize Winner — Sprouts Farmers Market in Cumming, Ga., took home the grand prize of $2,500 for their outstanding display that perfectly embodied the "Comin' in Hot" theme.
- Gold Winner — A cash prize of $1,000 was awarded to Food City in Knoxville, Tenn., the gold winner for their exceptional display of creativity.
- Silver Winner — ShopRite in Eddystone, Pa., received a cash prize of $500, recognizing their impressive merchandising efforts.
- Bronze Winners — Five bronze winners were also awarded $100 each, honoring their excellent display contributions.
“We are incredibly proud of and thankful for the creativity and dedication shown by all participants in this year’s contest,” Tori Rumenik, executive director of the Sunshine Sweet Corn Farmers of Florida, said in the release. "The impressive displays brought excitement and innovation to produce departments across the country."
With the success of the inaugural campaign, Sunshine Sweet Corn Farmers of Florida are excited to see more creative and innovative displays in next year’s contest.
