Riveridge adds Michigan-grown asparagus to its lineup
Riveridge adds Michigan-grown asparagus to its lineup
Riveridge Produce Marketing, a vertically integrated apple grower, packer and marketer and a leading shipper of Michigan apples, has added Michigan-grown asparagus to its product line.
Asparagus, like apples, is a crop that does very well in Michigan thanks to the climate provided in part by the proximity to Lake Michigan, according to a company press release. Michigan is the second-largest grower of asparagus in the United States, keeping more than 120 family farms active in the commercial growing of asparagus.
Don Armock
Michigan asparagus is unique in how it is harvested, with each spear snapped by hand so that the vegetable is fully edible, eliminating the need to trim large end pieces. Riveridge plans to use that message through marketing support in radio ads and billboards in select markets and media and blogger outreach.
Additionally, Riveridge is refreshing packaging and creating new approaches to make the asparagus purchase and cooking even easier for the end consumer.
“We have always marketed other produce throughout the year outside of apples, but this year, along with our partner packer, are committing more focus and resources to Michigan asparagus sales,” Don Armock, president of Sparta-based Riveridge Produce Marketing, said in the press release. “Michigan-grown asparagus kicks off the bounty of produce Michigan offers and we look forward to the opportunity to expand its footprint.”
Michigan-grown asparagus, depending on variables such as weather, will begin to hit produce departments in early May, with supplies available through June. Images, recipes and nutritional information will be available to help promote the benefits to make sure consumers are getting their Michigan-grown asparagus in that short six- to seven-week window.
