68 Produce expecting bigger organic volume

Organic offerings from Salinas, Calif.-based 68 Produce LLC will likely be over two times more than in past years, says Mike Reed, sales executive.

“We are committed to growing our customer relationships and our programs with them,” Reed said.

68 Produce offers a year-round supply of organic wet vegetables and many dry vegetable options from the company’s regional growing teams.

This year, 68 Produce is expanding its programs, with wrapped organic cabbage, cilantro, broccoli, baby broccoli, beans, hard squash, celery and other items from Salinas. The company will also have more organic items in the Oxnard growing region including beets, bunch items, chards and kales, celery, hard squashes and other items.

Massive spring storms will hurt the front end of supply for all growers in the West, Reed said.

“We look forward to working closer with our customers and growers to navigate this challenge,” he said.

The way higher

Retailers can expand organic sales by offering some items exclusively as organic, Reed said.

“If volume/pricing is similar to conventional, offer only organic options,” he said. “Group your organic section together to make it a destination category for your most dedicated guests to see your offerings and support your program."

Reed said he is excited about the way retailers are expanding space and promotions for organic produce. He said that organic consumers now have access to a wide variety of high-quality produce options, nearly on a par with the conventional produce items.

Retail support is more important than ever in continuing the growth of the category and the success of organic growing communities, Reed said.

68 Produce will be participating in the Organic Produce Show at booth No. 901, he said.