Index Fresh Ramps Up for California GEM Avocado Season; Susie Rea and Keith Blanchard Comment
CORONA, CA - A coveted produce item is making its return as it gears up to nab the spotlight this spring. Boasting peak flavor, richness, and consumer appeal, Index Fresh is bringing its GEM avocados back to the produce aisles, announcing it has doubled its volume in 2022 to ensure a steady flow of fruit for shoppers from April through July.
“Hass is the hard-working staple of the avocado category. It’s produced around the world and available all year. But not the GEM!” noted Susie Rea of the supplier’s Sales and Business Development team. “The GEM is the unicorn of avocados—grown exclusively in California and available for only 10 weeks of the year.”
Grown by California farmers for Index Fresh customers, the premium variety represents the pinnacle of sustainable practices and a short distance from tree to table, as noted in a press release.
“The GEM is something really special,” added Keith Blanchard, California Field Manager. “Index Fresh saw the incredible potential of this variety years ago, and we couldn’t be more pleased with its reception. This year’s total volume will double to 5 million pounds, which means twice as many delicious bites of GEM avocados on California plates.”
This year marks the sixth season of the GEM’s availability, during which the variety has built a strong following amongst avocado fans, receiving top marks in taste tests and praises for its peelability. California farmers have also found a love for the GEM, as it offers consistently high-volume production and lower labor costs due to smaller profile trees. With the fruit’s limited availability, customers are guaranteed optimal oil content, as the limited harvest is timed perfectly based on taste.
Expanding their relationships with GEM growers, Blanchard and his team will be offering grove tours to Index Fresh's customers this season.
“We want you to get a feel for where the fruit on your shelves comes from and to learn why California farmers have earned a reputation for growing the most delicious avocados on Earth,” said Blanchard.
Avocado sales await with this beloved variety in tow, so don’t miss out on the limited chance to add it to your portfolio.
