What is it about Waitrose, one of the more expensive shops in the UK, that continues to attract customers?
Over the past decade, Aldi and Lidl have created quite a stir in the UK – and risen in market share – courtesy of low, low prices and their expansion of stores. But some customers aren’t buying them, or at least not buying in them. Tesco, for instance, has remained a constant atop that share […]
Jooste: The changing face of the fresh produce workforce
I recently turned 65. After an old-school, shoulder-to-the-wheel, hard-working career of 30 years in fresh produce, I decided to use my skills to assist companies in strategic plans for marketing, communication and sustainability. The idea was to work one or two days a week. During the COVID-19 pandemic, it worked fine. Fast forward to 2023, […]
AVA Magnum strawberries shine in decadent dessert on Scottish fine dining menu
Scottish berry supplier Angus Soft Fruits, which made a splash with the world’s largest crown of strawberries for the King’s Coronation, has found its way into another decadent display for its AVA Magnum strawberries. Scottish Chef Paul Tamburrini, known for his fine dining establishment Tamburrini & Wishart, will be incorporating AVA Magnum’s into its menu […]
State of Blueberry report shows shifts in UK imports, dire straits for domestic growers
The International Blueberry Organization unveiled its highly anticipated 2023 State of the Global Blueberry Industry report on Aug. 15, via a live presentation. The analysis thoroughly examines the sector’s challenges and strengths, confirming a shift in production towards the counter season. “Sometime either in 2023 or 2024, the industry will see more fresh volumes shipped […]
The C-Suite Focus on Increasing Fruit and Vegetable Consumption
I recently moderated a panel discussion in the U.S. at the Produce for Better Health (PBH) Consumer Connection Conference in mid-April. The panelists represented a diverse group of foodservice companies, where senior leadership views produce as an important part of their business. Our 45-minute discussion focused on leaders’ insights on what matters, what’s doable and what […]
Sun World, now with stronger ties to UK, launches major grapes campaign
Sun World International, LLC has announced the launch of a first-of-its-kind global marketing campaign for its Autumncrisp brand green seedless grapes. The fully integrated campaign – expected to be the largest ever for a branded grape – aims to raise retail and consumer awareness and stimulate demand for these grapes. “Over the past 20 years, […]
Price cuts on 4 fresh produce items keep Aldi ahead of competitors again
Matching Aldi on price continues to be a challenge for opposing retailers, especially when Aldi keeps setting the bar lower. The discount supermarket chain recently announced more reductions to staple items, putting rivals on their heels again. They weren’t significant but enough to put a surprise devoted customers and put uneasiness in leaders at other […]
John Lewis looks toward digital future in £100m deal with Google Cloud
The John Lewis Partnership, which oversees retailer Waitrose and is the largest employee-owned company in the UK, announced it has entered into a £100m agreement with Google Cloud. The company says it hopes to give consumers “more tailored and personalised experiences” by expanding its digital offerings. John Lewis says it will leverage data analytics from […]
