Well-Pict offering new packaging and organic options

Well Pict Inc. in Watsonville, CA, has several new developments in both its organic and conventional lines, which it featured at this year's PMA Fresh Summit convention Oct. 12-15 in Houston.

In response to the changes and demands of today's marketplace, Well Pict said that it is continuing to expand packaging, product options and availability for its premium proprietary variety berries.

First, the long anticipated new four-pound strawberry pack is now shipping to club and retail stores. This smooth-sided clamshell is designed for improved product protection while addressing concerns about shipping costs and the environment.

Packing in a 2x4 configuration with a 160-pallet count, the new clamshell provides about 35 percent more unit density, resulting in reduced fuel usage and cheaper freight rates without compromising product volume or safety. Well Pict also has added larger packs for its organic strawberries. These premium proprietary variety berries are now available in eight-ounce, and one- and two-pound packs.

Well Pict's organic program continues to expand, with added offerings and new growing areas. The latest addition is sweet organic blackberries, available from May through July in six- and 12-ounce clamshells. It also has proprietary variety organic raspberries, which are available in six- and 12- ounce pack options and will be grown in the Oxnard, CA, region for the first time this year. This expansion will provide 12-month raspberry availability to match the firm's strawberry program.

The company's organic expansion has been in response to the demand from consumers and retailers alike.

"Expanding our organic strawberry, raspberry and blackberry programs allows more options to the retailers," Dan Crowley, Well Pict's sales manager, said in a press release. "Berries are great impulse buys, and when they're merchandised on end-table displays, they really move."