US retailers Kroger and Schnucks Markets recently participated in a consumer educational day organised by US produce importer Freida’s Speciality Produce in a bid to raise awareness of speciality produce items.
The so-called Frieda’s Produce University was held on 12 November at Kroger’s central stores in Indiana and Illinois and Schnucks’ Logli and Hilander locations in Illinois.
The “Fresh Twist on Holiday Cooking” session saw produce team members from Kroger and Schnucks share their knowledge with shoppers about specialty produce and explain how easy it is to use the items in their holiday and everyday cooking.
The open-house style event provided an opportunity for customers to see, touch, taste and ask questions about a variety of fresh produce items available in both retailers’ stores.
Featured produce included Asian Pears, Fuyu Persimmons, Jicama, Pine Nuts, Frieda’s Tomato Toss, Zululand Queen Baby Pineapples, Russian Banana Fingerling Potatoes, Cipolline Onions and Frieda’s French Style Crêpes.
“Produce University gives our produce teams the opportunity to share their knowledge and expertise while encouraging our customers to try something new,” said Gregg Proctor, produce merchandiser for Kroger’s Central Division.
“Produce University continues to better our produce managers’ knowledge and relationships with customers while providing the shoppers with a gourmet experience in the produce department,” added Mike O’Brien, vice-president of produce for Schnucks Markets.
Since 1989 Frieda's Produce University has helped educate consumers with in-depth product information, preparation ideas and samples of the latest specialty fruits and vegetables within grocers’ produce departments.
No comments yet