Santa Isabel tomato producer launches promo campaign
Gargiulo employees process the annual production of about 1.5 million 25-pound boxes, or 37.5 million pounds of “beefsteak” and “homegrown” tomatoes.
Fresh produce distributor Caribbean Produce Exchange announced this week the start of a new integrated marketing campaign to promote and support the 2014 tomato crop, while educating consumers on the health benefits and versatility of the fruit.
Under the “I love Puerto Rico’s tomatoes” slogan, Caribbean Produce Exchange hopes to promote the consumption of crops harvested by at the Gargiulo farm, which produces an average of 1.5 million 25-pound boxes, or 37.5 million pounds of “beefsteak” and “homegrown” tomatoes, said Gualberto Rodríguez, president of Caribbean Produce Exchange.
The Puerto Rico harvest covers local demand through island supermarkets and chains, as well as major restaurants. Gargiulo exports more than 1 million boxes to the U.S. east coast, as the tomatoes are preferred in that market for their taste and high quality, company officials said.
Caribbean Produce Exchange exclusively distributes Puerto Rico tomatoes during harvest season, limiting imports and supporting the economy.
Caribbean Produce Exchange is the main distributor of fruits, vegetables and fresh eggs in Puerto Rico with more than 54 years of experience in the safe handling of highly perishable foods. It is the first company in the Caribbean to have U.S. Department of Agriculture’s “Good Agricultural Practices” certification and has held the Blue Book’s “Trading Member” recognition for more than 29 consecutive years.
Its portfolio exceeds 1,000 items of leading brands of fruits, vegetables, eggs and high quality complementary brand products. Its services include managing the supply chain for fresh produce, processing fresh pre-cut food, packaging and distribution of local products, services, marketing and planning.
