Specialty Potato Alliance (SPA) announced that their alliance is strong and continues to grow. Their growth remains steadily upward and the group continues to open up and supply new markets. These were the results of their 10th board meeting, this time at the convention center in Bakersfield, California.
“The most important thing is that the Alliance has provided a network of growers that allows us to have product in stock all year in both our east coast and west coast facilities,” mentioned Mr. Dale Firman, founding partner of SPA and Director of their west coast distribution facility.
“First we wanted to make sure we had the best quality available,” Firman continued, “then we wanted to assure that quality all year long. Customers have come to depend on us, and the word is getting out so our base is growing as well. For example, when product is tight during transitional periods like now, we have many Fingerling varieties in stock ready to ship. Keeping our customers supplied is paramount when the market is tight and we have eliminated the gap."
More than consistent supply, Specialty Potato Alliance has seen other areas of growth. Their proprietary varieties are catching on as well. “The Red Rebel, Rockey Rose, and Merlot, are catching on,” reports Mr. Richard Leibowitz, Director of the east coast operations.
“Originally these were improvements for the French, Ruby and Purple Peruvian, but now they are being requested on their own along with the three traditional varieties. Our family of products now includes heirloom and proprietary selections, providing our customers options for a mix or individual unique varieties for promotion.”
While foodservice continues to expand, SPA has also been very successful in the retail arena where they are experiencing rapid growth. The introduction of their new combo bag with high graphics and light restricting plastic has been well received by retailers and demand is increasing.
Specialty Potato Alliance is also benefiting from their new organic program, both foodservice and retailers have picked up on the organic Fingerlings which are available in all varieties. For retail the same light resistant combo bag is used with the organic logo added and a design for all North American markets.
Other events at board meeting #10, include new facilities in Colorado, and new growers in Florida. The Alliance also plans expanded PMA show involvement and increased regional exposure. “Our new marketing plan includes marketing, promotion, advertising, social media and expanded show visibility,” notes Leibowitz. “Our products are rock stars and it’s time for them to go on tour,” Leibowitz concluded.
Specialty Potato Alliance is a group of dedicated Fingerling growers and distributors located throughout the United States who are committed to growing and packing the finest Fingerling Potatoes available. They maintain offices on both coasts and load potatoes in California, Washington, Oregon, Colorado, Michigan, Pennsylvania, and Florida.
