The genesis of Nash Produce began in 1977 as a large farming and produce packing and shipping operation focused on cucumbers. In 2006, a group of local growers recognized the need for a packing facility, which led to the purchase of Nash Produce. Since that time, the company has transitioned away from cucumbers to a more singular focus on sweet potatoes.

This summer, Bako Sweet hosted a retail merchandising contest that ran from May 20 to July 4. Produce managers from Sprouts Colton Distribution Center were challenged to create the most creative displays using the brand’s organic sweet potato bags and Traeger grill-themed bin to promote sweet potato consumption during historically low sales months. As a result, stores that participated saw significant sales lift.

The North Carolina SweetPotato Commission recently launched the Blazin’ Blackstone Giveaway Contest, a summer recipe promotion highlighting delicious new ways to enjoy sweetpotatoes.

As outdoor adventure, swimming, road trips and grilling take center stage for shoppers this month, Bako Sweet is ramping up merchandising efforts amidst a historically quiet season for the sweet potato category.

Matthews Ridgeview Farms, a fifth-generation family-owned-and-operated company, continues to grow, increasing acreage and space for its sweet potatoes. The company is looking to grow with its current partnerships and build some new partnerships in the year ahead.

This year, the Louisiana Sweet Potato Commission is celebrating its 70th anniversary representing sweet potato growers, shippers and processors.