Oppy launches DOLE-branded Florida strawberry program
Oppy launches DOLE-branded Florida strawberry program
Oppy has launched a Florida strawberry program under the DOLE brand, marking its first project since integrating with Dole Diversified North America in October.
Production is underway, with promotable volumes expected from late January through early February. The program features premium conventional strawberry varieties grown on more than 300 acres in Frostproof, Zolfo Springs, Dover and Plant City, FL, and offered in one-pound and two-pound packs. Favorable weather conditions have supported strong fruit development and quality.
“This Florida production completes Oppy’s year-round supply of strawberries, which also includes central and Baja Mexico and production along the California coast,” said Tony Colonna, senior berry category manager. “It allows us to diversify our supply across multiple regions and keep customers’ shelves filled, even if weather disrupts one of the major growing areas.”
Florida strawberries will be available through March, providing a reliable winter supply during a key demand period and supporting category performance at retail. Oppy said its business development representatives are working with customers to set up advertising and promotional programs.
“The added volume strengthens our year-round berry portfolio under the widely recognized DOLE brand,” Colonna said, citing a recent Ipsos survey showing 54 percent unaided recognition of the fresh fruit label. “It’s exciting to bring this first large-scale DOLE-branded strawberry offering to market through Oppy.”
In addition to strawberries, Oppy supplies a full range of berries year-round, offering consistent volumes of high-quality fruit across the category.