KINGSVILLE, ONTARIO, CANADA - Another monumental announcement from Mastronardi Produce® has come down the news pipeline. The greenhouse grower’s berry division has joined the SEKOYA® blueberry platform in a strategic move to elevate its blueberry offering.

“Mastronardi Produce is ecstatic to bring this superior product to our partners who will instantly recognize the value of our SEKOYA membership,” said Paul Mastronardi, President and Chief Executive Officer of Mastronardi Produce. "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, a press release noted. They’ve earned a reputation for excellence due to high quality and consistency. A retailer favorite, SEKOYA varieties are renowned for their exceptional firmness, sweet flavor, jumbo size, and extended shelf-life.

“We are proud to announce Mastronardi as a new SEKOYA member,” said Mark David, General Manager North America, 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. I am confident Mastronardi will contribute to our projects and shared initiatives moving forward. 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.”

Since its entrance into the North American berry space, Mastronardi Produce has been an innovative player, partnering with global veterans in fruit genetics and varietal development.

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,” said Mastronardi. “We will be leveraging our robust network of growers to support a rapid expansion.”

Mastronardi Produce currently offers the “complete berry basket” with a flavorful portfolio of strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, and blackberries. The company has a five-year plan for SEKOYA varieties, which will be grown in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Peru, Chile, and other regions.

Retailers can get a first look at SEKOYA blueberry samples at booth #631 during Southern Exposure. You won’t want to miss it!