Peruvian asparagus

The Peruvian Asparagus Importer’s Association (PAIA) has published its annual category plan for the US market.

The 2016/17 Fresh Asparagus Category Statistics and Trends includes statistics relating to market summaries, trends, nutritional facts, consumer positioning, fresh asparagus consumption data and key essential demographics.

PAIA coordinator Priscilla Lleras-Bush described the report as a “vital tool enabling retailers and foodservice companies to keep their fingers on the pulse of the industry and enable them to strategise and potentially boost sales”.

“Those involved in the trade of fresh asparagus will find essential consumer demographics for planning a successful sales strategy and promotions,” she said. “We want to equip the entire industry with the type of information needed to sell more Peruvian asparagusour goal is to inform and promote the trade.”

Peru is a leading source of fresh asparagus for the US market, supplying more than 46 per cent of the volume consumed last year.

“As consumers are looking for healthy and convenient super foods, Peruvian asparagus importers and exporters provide innovative packaging and cooking alternatives that appeal to a wide segment of the buying market,” said Jay Rodriguez of Crystal Valley Foods and co chairman of PAIA.

Anticipating increased demand this season, the association said it will focus even greater efforts in 2016/17 on spreading the positive word to industry trade press, supermarkets and consumers concerning the benefits of fresh asparagus through articles, advertisements, direct-communication, and trade show participation.