Food Nutrition

Urban Farmers are Growing Fruit Trees in Philadelphia. Really.

Harvey Chimoff Leave a comment

Consider this apparent oxymoron: urban orchards.

It’s a reality in Philadelphia, the sixth largest city by population in the United States.

Enabling the creation of urban orchards is exactly what the Philadelphia Orchard Project (POP) is doing. This nonprofit organization plants and supports community orchards in the city of Philadelphia. Growing locally is one way to increase access to fresh fruit and vegetables and expand sustainability.

Photo: Philadelphia Orchard Project. 2020 Annual Report.

Philadelphia Orchard Project helps boost nutritional intake by increasing access to fresh fruit and vegetables for often under-served inner city populations. POP requires that “the harvest (or proceeds from its sale) go to benefit low-wealth communities.”

According to POP, “the exact mix of trees and plants in each orchard depends upon our community partner’s preferences as well as strategies for sustaining healthy, productive orchards.” This includes, for example:

  • Fruit and Nut Trees: almonds, apples, Asian pears, peaches, plums and more
  • Shrubs and Berry Bushes: blueberries, blackberries, raspberries and more
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Wegmans Supermarket Entices Shoppers with Impressive Magazine

Harvey Chimoff Leave a comment

Print is still powerful – if used correctly.

Want proof? Check out the latest issue of Wegmans Menu Magazine.

The well-regarded Rochester, NY grocer publishes an attention-getting, glossy magazine chock full of beautiful photography and enticing recipes. Even non-cooks may be motivated to shop and then head to their kitchens.

Menu Magazine came to my attention via a family member, who recently signed-up for a Shoppers Club loyalty card in advance of a new store opening next week. The magazine was mailed to the home.

After perusing the magazine, I can share three marketing observations:

▶  Make content for the customer. The value and utility of Menu Magazine – products and recipes that make you want to buy – is what hooks the shopper. Of course Wegmans is selling (they are entitled), yet they achieve a business objective by putting the customer first. The magazine’s content makes the reader want to shop, cook and eat.  Continue reading →

Dynamic Duo – Ingredient Suppliers and Marketers Work Together for Consumer Success

Harvey Chimoff Leave a comment

Food ingredient suppliers are gathering this week in Las Vegas for the annual SupplySide West trade show.

And food and beverage marketing teams will be paying attention.

Credit: SupplySide West.

Credit: SupplySide West.

That’s because, in recent years, marketers have realized they can win with food ingredients – if they do it right. Keys include science-based credibility, great taste and mainstream-type products. It’s not easy, but there are wonderful opportunities. Consumers care about what they put in their bodies, more so than ever. They are proactive about what they want to eat and don’t want to eat.

As someone who has worked on the both the ingredient marketing and consumer brand management side of the desk, it’s been interesting to monitor how suppliers and marketers are increasingly coming together. Continue reading →