Berry Best Practices: A Guide to Summer's Favorite Fruit

Use this quick guide to keep your strawberry displays fresh, eye-catching, and customer-ready. Stay sharp on rotation, quality, and presentation—it all adds up to better sales and happier shoppers!

✅ Quality Tips: What to Look For

• Bright red color, no white or green tips

• Firm texture (not mushy or overripe)

• Fresh green caps (leaves) – not wilted or brown

• No signs of mold, bruising, or leaking juice

🕒 Shelf Life

• 2–3 days refrigerated (ideal for peak freshness)

• Rotate daily—first in, first out

• Discard any soft, moldy, or overripe berries promptly

📦 Receiving & Handling

• Inspect for moisture in packaging—too much = faster spoilage

• Store in a single layer or vented containers to avoid crushing

• Do not wash until ready to sell or serve

📈 Merchandising Tips

• Display in high-traffic areas (endcaps, front coolers, near bakery)

• Cross-merchandise with:

  • Shortcakes & whipped topping

  • Chocolate dips

  • Sparkling water or wine for holiday tie-ins

• Keep signage clear: emphasize local, fresh, or in-season as applicable

📣 Sales & Promotions

• Tie into seasonal events:

  • 4th of July, summer grilling

• Use callouts like:
  “Sweet, Juicy & In Season!”,
  “Perfect for Picnics & Desserts!”