You’ve just moved to a brand new facility in Redondo Beach, California. How will this help you take the business to the next level?
Brian Miller: We started operating from our new facility in Redondo Beach, California on 19 January. The new building features expanded loading capacity, advanced precooling infrastructure and the addition of clean rooms which will take the company forward with the implementation of value added programmes.
Have there been any significant changes to your asparagus programmes as we head into the new season?
BM: We are starting off 2014 with our largest Mexican asparagus season yet out of the region of Caborca. As one of the largest distributors of fresh asparagus we look forward to the season begin and coincide with Easter pull.
With the new facility and the addition of clean rooms we are looking to launch ready-to-eat asparagus in the middle of 2014. This is will be a great addition to our bag and tray asparagus programmes.
Is US demand for fresh asparagus becoming less seasonal?
BM: Consumption levels have increased by 120 per cent over the past two decades. Asparagus has become mainstream vegetable in America which can be seen in it is adoption onto the menus of casual dining restaurants and even popular fast food chains. As asparagus gains popularity consumers expect it to be available year-round like other staple fruits and vegetables.
Are new presentation formats helping to push up demand within the category?
BM: Innovation is helping grow demand for asparagus by giving consumers what they want with convenient asparagus packs. Gourmet Trading Company was the first company to start bagged asparagus in 2005 and this has since become the standard pack for many retailers.
With bagged asparagus we are able to lower shrink while giving consumers the right pack size with extended shelf-life. Last year we launched tray asparagus as a result of which we’ve already seen a lift in sales. We are looking forward to continuing to bring innovation to the industry with new packs such as bagged asparagus tips and ready-to-eat asparagus.
Congratulations on recently being named West Coast co-chairman of the Peruvian Asparagus Importers Association. What do you hope to achieve in the year ahead?
BM: The main thing I hope to accomplish during my tenure is to bring about increased efficiencies within the asparagus industry as a whole.
How would you sum up the US asparagus market in 2013? Has there been a smooth transition between the various supply countries? How have average prices been overall?
BM: I would sum up 2013 as a volatile year in asparagus production starting with weather conditions out of Mexico, air space issues out of South America and traditional regional transitions made consistent supply a challenge.
