'Tis the Season to be...Prepared! Your Holiday Produce Playbook

The holidays are upon us, which means one thing for independent grocers: it's crunch time in the produce department!  But don't let the holiday rush turn into a produce panic. With a little planning and the right tools, you can navigate this busy season with ease and jingle all the way to the bank.

Here's your Empower Fresh guide to holiday produce readiness:

1.  Deck the Halls with Data (from Last Year):

Dust off those sales reports from last year's holiday season.  What were your top sellers?  Where did you experience stock-outs?  What promotions were a hit?  Use this valuable data to inform your ordering and merchandising strategies this year.  

2.  Plan Your Produce-scape:

Think beyond the everyday displays.  The holidays are a time for festive flair!  Plan eye-catching displays featuring seasonal favorites like cranberries, pomegranates, and citrus fruits.  

3.  Teamwork Makes the Dream Work:

Don't forget the power of cross-departmental collaboration.  Partner with your meat and seafood departments to create enticing displays that pair perfectly with holiday meals.  Think poultry herbs near the turkeys, or lemons and limes by the seafood counter.

4.  Communicate with Your Crew:

The holidays can be hectic, so clear communication is key.  Set clear expectations for your team regarding scheduling, breaks, and overtime.  Review last year's performance to anticipate peak hours and ensure adequate staffing levels.

5.  Preload Like a Pro:

Late deliveries and out-of-stocks can be a nightmare during the holidays. Beat the rush and keep those shelves stocked with fresh, festive produce.

Need some help with the above? Plan like a pro by checking out our Empower Fresh platform and see how AI-powered forecasting and ordering can help your team win. 

With a little preparation and the power of Empower Fresh, you can conquer the holiday rush and make this your most profitable season yet.