Mandarins originated in Southeast Asia and China, dating back approximately 4,000 years. Historical accounts suggest that missionaries introduced mandarins to Southern California in the 1800s, while others report they arrived with miners during the Gold Rush. Currently, California supplies over 90 percent of the U.S. mandarin market, with the San Joaquin Valley serving as the leading production area. California mandarins are available from November through April.
Seedless mandarins, known for their sweetness and ease of peeling, are currently in peak season and have become a dominant force within the citrus category. This period provides an excellent opportunity to boost retail sales by featuring mandarins in weekly advertisements and prominent in-store displays.
California mandarins are showing high quality, with strong consumer demand increasing sales. Bagged mandarins represent the most significant volume of sales; loose mandarins with attached leaves signify product freshness.
Merchandising Recommendation: Display two- or three-pound mandarin bags on secondary displays, such as endcaps or freestanding units in high-traffic areas. Ensure neat stacking and promote mandarins as healthy snacks and ideal choices for children’s lunch boxes. Emphasize high-volume sales. Create a visually impactful display by using false bottoms to manage stock levels and reduce shrinkage. Regularly rotate product on display to maintain freshness.
It is advisable to communicate with your mandarin supplier to develop an advertising plan to increase sales volume and generate gross profit dollars.
This article originally ran on The Produce News.
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About the Author
Ron Pelger
Ron Pelger is a former director of produce merchandising and procurement for a major supermarket retail chain. He is currently a free-lance writer for the produce industry supporting growers, shippers, and retailers. He can be contacted at 775-843-2394 or by e-mail at ronprocon@gmail.com.
