“We’ve built an industry that has a 365-day demand for dates,” Ryan said, highlighting the importance of consistency in supply to meet the ever-growing consumer appetite for the fruit. “The one thing you don’t want to happen in the date world is to run out.” This emphasis on continuous supply is not just a short-term priority but is central to long term long-term growth.Organic growth is another area where the company is leading the charge. “Organic is a big part of what we do,” Ryan said, pointing out that the company has steadily increased its organic production as new date gardens come online and older gardens transitioning to organic practices. “I believe we’re the largest organic date grower in the industry,” he added, underscoring SunDate’s commitment to sustainable farming and meeting the demand for organic products.
In addition to organic production, SunDate has been expanding its packaging options to cater to changing consumer preferences. “We’re growing in both domestic and export markets and seeing more people moving toward bags at retail,” Ryan said. The shift toward bagged dates aligns with broader trends in convenience and sustainability, which are reshaping the retail landscape.
The company’s focus on innovation extends beyond packaging to in-store promotions as well. “We’re expanding our offerings in bags and clamshells and doing more displays and tools for promotion,” Ryan said. This emphasis on visibility has proven successful, as retailers utilizing floor displays have been rewarded with increased sales. SunDate continues to promote these strategies, helping retail partners maximize their returns.
Another area of notable growth is the pitted date category. “The growth of the pitted category has been significant,” Ryan said, highlighting the increasing demand for convenience among consumers. The company plans to expand its offerings in this category as well, ensuring they stay ahead of market trends.
One of SunDate’s key advantages is its vertical integration, which allows the company to maintain control over the entire supply chain. “The vast majority of our fruit, virtually all of it is ours, so we can control everything,” Ryan said, emphasizing the benefits of not relying on external growers. This control translates to superior quality and consistency, which are critical in maintaining the trust of consumers and retailers alike.
With ideal weather conditions, expanding market opportunities, and a commitment to quality and sustainability, SunDate is well-positioned to lead the charge in an increasingly health-conscious world.
