In a strategic move to elevate its blueberry offering, Mastronardi Produce, a fourth-generation family-owned greenhouse business, says its berry division has joined the Sekoya blueberry platform. The Sekoya varieties are known for their firmness, sweet flavor, jumbo size and extended shelf life, says the Kingsville, Ontario-based greenhouse grower.
“Mastronardi Produce is ecstatic to bring this superior product to our partners who will instantly recognize the value of our Sekoya membership,” Paul Mastronardi, president and CEO of Mastronardi Produce Ltd., said in a news release. “This partnership will significantly bolster the domestic blueberry category for growers and retailers alike.”
Sekoya is an in-demand variety platform that retailers ask for by name, having earned a reputation for excellence thanks to its consistently high-quality blueberries, the release said.
“We are proud to announce Mastronardi as a new Sekoya member,” said Mark David, general manager North America for Sekoya. “Mastronardi brings experience to Sekoya through their premium concept and brands, which will add value in the market. Every Sekoya member brings a unique set of skills, perspective, and dedication to the table, all of which have been instrumental in driving our progress to date.”
Mastronardi Produce says it has been an innovative player in the North American berry space, partnering with global veterans in fruit genetics and varietal development. The company currently offers the “complete berry basket” with a flavorful portfolio of strawberries, raspberries, blueberries and blackberries.
“I am confident Mastronardi will contribute to our projects and shared initiatives moving forward,” David added. “Initially, Sekoya started with 15 members, and we now go back to 15 members. We believe with this highly professional group of independent grower-marketers we are close to our optimum of supplying all our core consumer markets globally via direct sales.”
As a Sekoya member, Mastronardi Produce will be able to grow and market a variety of premium blueberries under its award-winning berry brands.
“By offering the same incredible quality every day of the year, we will see higher levels of consumer trust, less waste, and happier customers,” Mastronardi said. “We will be leveraging our robust network of growers to support a rapid expansion.”
The greenhouse grower says it has an aggressive five-year plan for Sekoya varieties, which will be grown in the U.S., Canada, Mexico, Peru, Chile and other regions.
Retailers can get a first look at Sekoya blueberry samples at booth No. 631 during the Southeast Produce Council’s Southern Exposure trade show in Tampa, Fla., March 7-9.
