This week, United Fresh released its quarterly research report, Fresh Facts on Retail, for the fourth quarter of 2008.  The report recaps retail sales trends for the top 10 fruits and vegetables, value-added and convenience produce items, emerging market opportunities such as fresh meals and salads sold in delis, and organic produce.  In addition, the year-end report includes analysis of the impact current economic conditions may be having on the produce market.  United Fresh members can download a copy of this report here for free.

Fresh Facts on Retail is sponsored by Del Monte Fresh Produce and produced in partnership with the Perishables Group which tracks and provides analysis of retails sales data. 

"The economy is clearly having an impact on these Q4 volume declines," said Victoria Backer, United Fresh senior vice president for member services. "But this won't be the end of the story, as produce companies and retailers are adapting to ways to move more produce even in these difficult times.  We’re pleased that senior executives of the Perishables Group will be discussing these findings and additional research on ways to promote produce in the current economy during our upcoming United Fresh 2009 convention in Las Vegas."

Fresh Facts on Retail can be downloaded here free to all United Fresh members and for $50 to non-members. For more information, contact Victoria Backer.