TRAVERSE CITY, MI - Blueberries are a vital part of the berry section in the produce department, and retailers need to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the sector. I touched base with North Bay Produce’s Ryan Lockman, who was more than happy to clue me in on the supplier’s current domestic blueberry crop and how buy-side partners can take advantage this summer.

“Promote often and understand that, due to increased consumption levels, price points at retail may not have to be as aggressive as in years past. We are witnessing new realities in consumer behavior, particularly with blueberries, at overall higher retail price points,” Ryan explains.

Although the domestic blueberry crop had a rough start in the Southeast, as Ryan explains to me, northern regions are primed for a great crop, with production as expected.

“North Bay has a very diverse and abundant supply of blueberries during the summer/domestic months of production. Along with our product offerings, we also provide a high level of service, which we believe sets us apart from the rest of the market,” Ryan says.

In addition to its conventional offerings, the supplier also offers Premium blueberries and blackberries under its RESERVE® label, as well as Jumbo blueberries and organic blueberries.

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