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Courtesy C.H. Robinson |
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C.H. Robinson Worldwide Inc.'s red and green sliced apple packs use regional sourcing to cut down on transport times after processing. The company displayed the items at the Produce Marketing Association's Fresh Summit. They come in about a dozen stock-keeping units, including a 2-ounce pack (above) and a tub of eight 2-ounce-packs (at right). |
ANAHEIM, Calif. — Striving to provide a snacking option that is not only quick and convenient, Eden Prairie-based C.H. Robinson Worldwide Inc.’s new sliced apples combine regional sourcing and the trusted Mott’s brand.
After successful test marketing at select retailers, C.H. Robinson plans to roll out the snack packs for national distribution by the end of 2010, said Bud Floyd, vice president of produce marketing.
C.H. Robinson relies on an extensive network of grower-shippers to supply the product regionally, Floyd said, which not only cuts down on “food miles” but also ensures a longer shelf life because product has not traveled across the country post-processing.
“We also thought it was important to support regional processors and growers,” he said. “It also adds about two days into the supply chain that would be lost. Retailers can call today and get it the next day.”
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Courtesy C.H. Robinson |
Tracie Stoltenberg, public relations manager, said 80% to 85% of the product is sourced regionally. During times when local product is not available, other areas, such as Chile, are used.
Mott’s brand sliced apples are available in red and green. Floyd said C.H. Robinson may expand that availability, as the market requires. They are available in a 2-ounce container and a 14-ounce zip-top bag. There are about a dozen Stock-Keeping Units in the line.