US KIKU Soccer Promotion Kicks Off

U.S. growers of KIKU® brand apples announced this week that they are partnering with retailers across the country to create buzz around super sweet KIKU® brand apples. The “KIKU® for Kicks” promotion attracts consumers to try KIKU® brand apples with a fresh youth soccer promotion supporting healthy eating and an active life style.

“In coordination with our alliance partners, Rice Fruit Company and Applewood Orchards, CMI is opening this promotion up to all of our retail partners,” said Katharine Grove, Marketing Specialist for CMI It assists our retailers’ charitable efforts by supporting one of their local soccer teams, all the while creating some excitement within the produce department with in-store displays and promotional merchandise,” said Grove.

As part of each sponsorship, the KIKU® alliance will donate to local soccer clubs under their retail partners’ name to purchase team jerseys, as well as provide local teams with a complete kit with balls, coolers, KIKU® brand apples and funds to help throw an end-of-season party for the team.

Don Patella, Regional Marketing Director for CMI, says that retail partners are excited to support local youth, as well as reward their produce associates with this opportunity. “We have designed an in-store contest to run parallel to the consumer KIKU® for Kicks promotion. The contest will be tailored to fit each retailer’s needs, and will be based on volume sold or display contests,” said Patella. Retail prizes will include hot items such as Swagway hoverboards and electronics.

The apple category is expanding, and niche apples like KIKU® brand apples continue to be key in fighting category deflation and satisfying consumer demand.

About KIKU® brand apples

Steadily growing in popularity, KIKU® brand apples have gained a devoted following among apple connoisseurs who adore their super sweet flavor and overall aromatic intensity. KIKU® brand apples are very exotic with a super sweet taste, crunchy flesh, and high juice content. Visually, KIKU® brand apples stand out from the crowd, with their distinctive striping and ruby-red coloration. Perfect for snacking, salads and cooking, KIKU® brand apples are incredibly versatile.

Learn about the KIKU® Alliance

KIKU® brand apples come from select growers in strategic regions across the United States. CMI and its growers in Washington State (Columbia Fruit Packers) were given the opportunity to develop the North American market for KIKU® and thus formed the KIKU® brand alliance with Rice Fruit Company in PA, and Applewood Orchards in MI.

KIKU® is a registered trademark of KIKU® Srl-GmbH, Italy, not an apple variety.

Contact Person: Katharine Grove, Marketing Specialist – Phone: 509-888-3427, or 509-885-0444 Fax: 509-888-3418 Email: Katharineg@cmiapples.com URL: www.cmiapples.com

Source: CMI