Maglio expands options for watermelon pouch

Maglio Companies’ readyripe® watermelon pouch is now available to grocery retailers in two sizes with three levels of technology and a new pricing structure.

Sam Maglio, president and CEO of Maglio Companies launched this gusseted pouch concept for fresh quartered watermelon in 2015. “The development of the patented pouch took several years and significant field-testing to perfect it,” says Maglio. “We wanted to get the technology just right.”

The company says the technology of the pouch regulates oxygen, carbon dioxide and water vapor transmission rates. The natural respiration of the melon creates an enhanced atmospheric environment, and according to Maglio, results in the quartered watermelon staying fresh for a longer period of time.

“The reason we have developed additional options for the readyripe® pouch is that some high volume retailers have expressed to us that they do not always need the highest level of technological enhancement, but still want to maintain the convenience for their customers and take advantage of the production savings,”said Maglio. “We heard these concerns and have added more options.”

Retailer benefits
Maglio says the overwrap method can take up to three times longer than the readyripe® pouch to prepare quarter slices of watermelon for display in the store.

“There is an added benefit when you cut your production time in half or more,” explains Rick Butera, Management Consultant for the readyripe® product line. “Retailers can use the extra time to produce more quartered watermelon to satisfy peak season demand or use the extra time for other produce offerings that yields an additional stream of revenue and profit.”

Consumer opinion
The company also reports that consumers showed a preference to the pouches, citing an in-store pilot programs. When Maglio representatives surveyed consumers in-store about their experience, three things rose to the top. Convenience, freshness and no mess.

For more information:
Richard Butera
Maglio Companies
Ph: +1 (262) 671-2104
rab@magliocompanies.com
www.maglioproduce.com