Company says it plans “aggressive” expansion of supply base across North and South America as retail demand for premium-quality blueberries continues to grow
North American company Mastronardi Produce has joined Sekoya, a leading provider of premium blueberry varieties.
A major supplier of greenhouse-grown fruits and vegetables, Mastronardi said it had an “aggressive” five-year plan for the blueberries, which it plans to grow in the US, Canada, Mexico, Peru, Chile, and other parts of the world.
“Mastronardi Produce is ecstatic to bring this superior product to our partners who will instantly recognise the value of our Sekoya membership,” commented Paul Mastronardi, president and CEO of Mastronardi Produce. “This partnership will significantly bolster the domestic blueberry category for growers and retailers alike.”
Sekoya offers producers around the world access to a select portfolio of high-quality blueberries that originate from breeding and research programmes owned by US-based company Fall Creek.
Since their launch, those varieties have reportedly been well received by consumers and retailers thanks to what the company describes as exceptional firmness, sweet flavour, jumbo size, and extended shelf-life.
According to Sekoya, retailers appreciate the berries’ consistently high quality and ask for them by name.
“We are proud to announce Mastronardi as a new Sekoya member,” said Mark David, the group’s general manager for North America. “Mastronardi brings experience to Sekoya through their premium concept and brands which will add value in the market. Every Sekoya member brings a unique set of skills, perspective, and dedication to the table, all of which have been instrumental in driving our progress to date.”
Mastronardi Produce has developed its own reputation as an innovative player in the North American berry market, and continues to invest in fruit genetics and varietal development.
“I am confident Mastronardi will contribute to our projects and shared initiatives moving forward,” added David. “Initially, Sekoya started with 15 members, and we now go back to 15 members. We believe with this highly professional group of independent grower-marketers we are close to our optimum of supplying all our core consumer markets globally via direct sales.”
As a Sekoya member, Mastronardi Produce has permission to grow and market a range of premium blueberries under its own berry brands, Sunset and BerryWorld.
“By offering the same incredible quality every day of the year, we will see higher levels of consumer trust, less waste, and happier customers,” said Paul Mastronardi. “We will be leveraging our robust network of growers to support a rapid expansion.”
Retailers can get a first look at Sekoya blueberry samples at this week’s Southern Exposure trade show in Tampa, Florida.
