California Prune Board takes prune orchards to global audiences via virtual reality project
US marketing body, the California Prune Board, is transforming the way trade international buyers, media and industry stakeholders experience the provenance of California prunes.
The first of its kind in the prune industry, a ground-breaking virtual reality (VR) project is designed to bring to life the innovation and sustainable practices at work in California’s prune orchards.
Incorporating state-of-the-art VR headsets and an interactive, 360-degree environment, the 20-minute experience immerses users in the sights, sounds and stories of the orchards, encompassing 14 counties in the Sacramento and San Joaquin valleys.
From witnessing the precision of modern drying techniques, to understanding sustainability efforts like smart irrigation and solar energy, this initiative demonstrates how technology can bridge geographical barriers and create new opportunities for engagement, according to Esther Ritson-Elliott, CPB’s director of international marketing and communications.
“Using the power of virtual reality, the California Prune Board has brought the orchards to the doorstep of audiences outside of the United States,” she said.
”Using the latest interactive technology, we have crafted an informative, educational, and fun experience that engages the user and enables us to showcase the exceptional origins of California Prunes. It also outlines the nutritious benefits of prunes, including the positive effects they can have on bone and gut health.”
Ritson-Elliott continued: “Our new VR experience is not only a tool for showcasing the exceptional qualities of California Prunes, but also a testament to our commitment to innovation in the agricultural sector. It’s a pioneering way to connect with our audiences, offering them an immersive and impactful understanding of the care and expertise behind every prune.”