AFM schools retail, foodservice with Avo University

Avocados From Mexico has established Avo University, a free online guide with separate training for retailers/wholesalers and foodservice personnel.

The course takes about half an hour, and participants receive certification for completing the program, according to a news release from the Dallas-based Avocados From Mexico. According to Avocados From Mexico’s release, Avo University offers a “brand-new breakthrough capability for building the confidence of industry professionals on several avocado topics.”

The curriculum dispels common misperceptions about avocados, offering tips and techniques to boosts sales and reduce shrinkage, according to the release.

Stephanie Bazan, vice president of trade and market development for Avocados From Mexico, said in the release that the program creates value by driving demand and consumption.

“Avo University is a first-of-its-kind certification program specific to industry professionals,” Bazan said in the release. “Right now, education is one of the top purchase barriers in the category. This innovative solution offers our retail partners best-in-class category and product knowledge to support their operations and influence the shopper journey.”

The retail program is designed for corporate retail category managers, produce department employees, wholesalers and grocery e-commerce professionals, according to the release.

The retail Avo University programming includes:

• How to tell when avocados are ready to eat;
• Techniques to maximize freshness; and
• Merchandising strategies.

The course for foodservice operators/distributors covers:

• The five stages of avocado ripeness and best menu uses for each one;
• Methods for bulk avocado prep and ripening;
• Handling tips to maximize back-of-house techniques; and
• How to keep avocado halves, slices, dices or guacamole green throughout service.

“Nothing adds premium appeal to a menu like fresh Avocados From Mexico, and the many tips, tricks and techniques available at Avo University make the category easy and fun to master,” David Spirito, senior director of culinary and foodservice, said in the release “We look forward to helping foodservice professionals expand their avocado knowledge and impress their guests as a result.”

Avo University also showcases brand partnership opportunities. To learn more about certification and how to partner with Avocados From Mexico, contact avoeasy@avocadosfrommexico.com.

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