Castroville, Calif.-based Ocean Mist Farms says its winter artichoke season in Coachella, Calif., is well underway, peaking with harvests of its Gold Standard (green globe) artichokes.
In addition, Ocean Mist has the first picks of highly sought-after purple artichokes, according to a news release. Peak season on artichokes means promotable volumes to retailers through February, the company said.
“This is also a perfect opportunity for retailers to create some thoughtful and creative cross-promotion displays including things like fresh lemons, olive oil, breadcrumbs, and dips,” Mark Munger, senior director of marketing, said in the release. “This will not only offer consumers a convenience by creating ‘one-stop-shopping’ environments but can also increase basket size while offering important color breaks in the display that will make it more likely to attract consumers and generate buzz.”
The first Frost-Kissed crop of the season was also being harvested a couple of weeks ago out of their southern growing region in Coachella, the release said.
“These exclusive artichokes were not available last year as they only occur after frosts, much to the disappointment of artichoke aficionados who know that the darkened skin on the outer leaves is strictly cosmetic, doesn’t affect the eatability or quality of the artichoke and, in fact, the frost seems to seal in a more intense and distinctive nutty flavor,” Director of Sales Joe Angelo said in the release. “A possible second wave of Frost-Kissed artichokes may be available next month, weather contingent.”
Ocean Mist has specially developed POS materials for retailers to help educate consumers about these limited artichokes which can be ordered from the Ocean Mist website, the release said.
Ocean Mist says it will be rolling out a major consumer media campaign to inform consumers about this year’s winter artichoke crop. The media coverage will include consumer-focused communications, media press releases and targeted social media content to get consumers excited about artichoke season, according to the release.
These efforts will put artichokes top of mind with consumers, bring about awareness and create demand that helps drive sales of winter artichokes, Ocean Mist said. These communications will include selection tips, unique and versatile recipes and usage ideas and reminders that consumers can check out their website’s store locator to find Ocean Mist artichokes near them nationwide, according to the release.
“Artichokes are one of the produce items consumers get really passionate and excited about,” Munger said. “We know how important the caliber and quality of our artichoke products are to retailers — and consumers — and we make great efforts to meet and exceed those expectations every year with the artichokes from both our Castroville and Coachella growing regions.”
