The company’s inaugural Florida strawberry programme under the Dole brand spans over 300 acres across four growing regions
Oppy has announced the launch of its new Florida strawberry programme, marking the company’s inaugural offering under the Dole label since its integration with Dole Diversified North America (DDNA) in October.
Production is underway, with promotable volumes expected from late January through early February, the group explained/
Grown on more than 300 acres in Frostproof, Zolfo Springs, Dover and Plant City, Florida, the programme features what Oppy called ”a strong lineup of premium conventional varieties” in 1lb and 2lb packs.
Favourable weather conditions to date have supported ”excellent” fruit development and quality, it said.
“This Florida production completes Oppy’s year-round supply of strawberries, which also includes central and Baja, Mexico and production up and down the California coast,” said Tony Colonna, senior berry category manager.
“It allows us to diversify our supply with multiple regions simultaneously and keep customers’ shelves filled regardless of any weather interruptions in one of the major growing regions.”
With availability through March, Florida strawberry production provides an important strategic advantage through winter, providing reliable supply during a critical demand period and ensuring retailers can maintain strong category performance.
Oppy’s business development representatives are actively setting up ads and providing promotional tools to drive sales at retail, the group confirmed.
“The new volume expands the strength of our year-round berry portfolio under the widely recognised Dole brand,” Colonna continued, citing a recent IPSOS survey that revealed a 54 per cent unaided recognition of the popular fresh fruit label.
“It’s exciting to bring this first large-scale Dole branded strawberry offering to the marketplace through Oppy.”
