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with Memorial Day a close second, followed by Father’s Day and Labor Day, she says.
“American-themed patriotic displays are a natural that carry retailers through avocado season,” says DeLyser. “There is an opportunity to tie in to picnic season, barbecue season and the peak of outdoor entertaining, all of which are perfect for California avocados.”
There is one obvious popular way to use avocados. “Guacamole is great because it is a party pleaser, and summer is perfect for parties,” says DeLyser. “And because consumers use four, six, eight or more avocados per batch, it’s a great recipe for retailers to promote to increase basket ring. With 56 percent of avocado shoppers saying they consume guacamole frequently, it is one of the top ways to use avocados.”
But there are other ways to promote them. DeLyser says consumers also use them in salads, sandwiches, burgers, and wraps — all popular summer foods. To help spark ideas, the Commission includes salad and sandwich recipes in its summer entertaining programs.
“Another great way avocados can be used this time of year is plain, right out of the shell,” she says. “That’s the fourth most-pop- ular usage for avocados. On a hot summer day when you want a cool, satisfying breakfast or snack with almost no work or clean up, just cut up a California avocado and dig in!”
CROSS-PROMOTION TIPS
Another great thing about summer fruits and vegetables is discovering pairings that make for exciting dining experiences, and that makes cross-promotions a must strategy.
“Creative cross merchandising with complementary produce can drive incremental sales, as does cross merchandising with usage suggestions that include avocados plus other seasonal produce items,” says DeLyser.
Says Berkley: “Cross promotion merchan- dising is a perfect way to maximize sales for retailers. It offers a convenient, one-stop shop for items related to a summer recipe inspira- tion or holiday menu planning.”
Her suggestions include promoting young coconut and key limes as a hydrating drink, dragon fruit, limes and chilies for a savory fruit salsa, and Hatch chilies, onions, garlic, toma- toes and avocado for a delicious appetizer dip.
SUMMER FOODS, HEALTHY LIVING
Buurma says opportunities for delicious and healthy dishes that use a variety of fruits and vegetables are endless. One item he suggests promoting is Southern greens.
“My wife makes an Asian vegetable
58 / MAY 2019 / PRODUCE BUSINESS