Fresno, Calif.-based Fowler Packing, which markets mandarins under its Peelz brand, has expanded its offerings to include organic mandarins and dekopon mandarins.
Dekopons are notable for their “large size, funky shape and extraordinarily sweet taste,” according to a news release. They’re also seedless and easy to peel.
Nielsen data show dekopon dollar sales were up 104% last year, with volume sales up 68%, at an average price per pound of $2.86, according to the release. Organic mandarins have seen dollar sales up 29% and volume sales up 32% so far this season, per Nielsen.
“It’s evident that there is a growing demand for organic and specialty offerings within the mandarin category,” Sean Nelsen, vice president of sales and marketing for Fowler Packing, said in the release. “Our expansion is another example of our commitment to be strategic partners for our retailers. With these new products, Fowler Packing becomes a one-stop shop for the mandarin category, with quality and excellence at the forefront helping our partners drive category growth and meet the needs of every consumer.”
Peelz organics will be sold in 2-pound and 5-pound packs, and Peelz dekopons will be sold in single-layer euro cartons, according to the release.
Nelsen said the market share of the Peelz brand has doubled since it launched last season and that it is the fastest-growing mandarin brand.