July 29, 2021
Over time, we have seen a huge growth and demand for more sustainable packing. In response, grape growers are offering more product in eco-friendly options. A popular packaging option for grapes are paper totes, which is a great eco-friendly alternative to commonly used plastic pouches. They keep the grapes fresh and offer the same protection when stacked for display purposes. Paper totes can easily be recycled or composted! One suggestion is to offer both paper totes and plastic pouches and let customers choose what fits their lifestyle best. Here are some tips for displaying all the different sustainable grape options this summer:
- Keep Product Fresh: Grapes will hold up better when kept refrigerated but will hold up just fine for a day or two on a non-refrigerated table. If you are displaying grapes on a non-refrigerated dry table, the product does need to be pulled at the end of the day and stored in the cooler overnight. Cull out any damaged fruit regularly.
- Build a Large Display: Highlight that you are supporting paper totes and build a prominent display featuring all the grapes you carry in eco-friendly paper totes. Create signage on why you are supporting the switch to paper and how your customers can properly dispose of the packaging once they are home.
- Don’t Stack Too High: No matter if you are displaying totes or pouches, never stack your grapes too high. The grapes on the bottom layer can safely withstand the weight of one to two layers of product without getting damaged. Any more layers than that, you risk squishing the grapes on the bottom!
- Cross Merchandise: California-grown pears and apples have just started and would look great incorporated into a larger seasonal summer display. They are excellent options to help to break up the look of all grape totes and pouches. You can also try cross-merchandising grapes with charcuterie board supplies!
- Diversify: Featuring more variety means more grape sales. It has been proven that the more colors and variety you offer, the more grapes you will sell overall. Many ‘big box’ stores are now offering tri-color grape packs, with green, red and black seedless in large clamshells. While organic growers are not currently offering this ‘variety-pack’ they will in coming seasons. In the meantime, spread the love and buy all colors and flavors of grapes while they are at their peak!