Paper Totes: In 2023, OGC introduced its Ladybug Brand organic grape tote program with incredible success. This program reduces plastic in the produce department and gives shoppers organic California and Northwest grown varieties packed in handy, recyclable kraft baskets.
Bulk Displays: Consider creating a show-stopping bulk display at the peak of the season when grape quality is at its best. If your department is interested in experimenting with bulk displays, talk to your Account Representative about options.
The key to bulk displays is ensuring that the grapes look nice, as there is no bag to hide imperfections. An attractive display can incorporate half bulk and half bagged or totes, with bags/totes on the sides of the display and bulk in the middle. This creates a symmetrical look and helps contain the bulk and prevent them from scattering. Creating levels/steps (high in back/low in front) with 2-3 layers of fruit on each ensures that the displays look full even with minimal product display. The grape bunches are usually shaped to fit together nicely/cascade so it can look beautiful.
Rugs are critical to avoid falls and watch for loose grapes on the floor —this is one of the biggest challenges. Let them sell down in the evening, then pull them at night and restock first thing the next morning. Putting paper bags near the bulk offers another plastic-free option for eco-conscious shoppers. Late September is the time to wrap up bulk grape displays, ensuring this merchandising technique is used when fruit is at its best.
Make the Most of Summer Grape Season
Three growing regions influence the summer grape season:
-
Desert Region (Mid-May to Mid-July): This area includes Southern California and Mexico. It’s a volume program with lots of green and red, a few black grapes and limited specialty varieties. Most Mexican vineyards use state-of-the-art techniques to focus on the latest varieties, including the candy types. Peak season: early June to early July.
-
California’s Central Valley (Late July to November): This region offers some of the best green, red and black grapes, along with specialty varieties like petite Champagne grapes, high-sugar experimental IFG varieties, Muscat types, seedless Thomcord, seeded Concord, and more. Bunches are beautiful – full, tight and have a solid shelf life. Peak production is from mid-August to early October.
-
Northwest Region (Late August through September): OGC’s late summer grape program features several tasty varieties, including the jam-like Thomcord, green Lakemont, red Vanessa and more. It’s an exciting component of the Northwest fruit season and its sales opportunities.
