Los Angeles, CA (April 2025) — Warmer days are on the horizon, and shoppers are looking for fresh flavors that feel like an escape. Melissa’s Produce is helping retailers deliver just that with its refreshed Taste of Vacation tropical program. This seasonal push brings vibrant color, variety, and light, craveable flavors to produce departments—capturing the mood of spring and the growing interest in globally inspired fruit.
Retailers are taking note. Tropical fruit was Melissa’s #1 most requested category by buyers in 2024, with 14 SKUs seeing double-digit growth—including lychee (+47%), cherimoya (+36%), mangosteen (+33%), and tamarindo (+64%). Backed by a year-round, global sourcing strategy, Melissa’s offers consistency and quality that both operators and customers rely on. New this year, the spotlight is on organics, with the addition of Organic Brown Coconut and Organic White Dragon Fruit, both available year-round.
Consumers continue to reach for tropical fruits not only for their flavor, but also for their health appeal. Mango, papaya, and guava are a rich source of vitamin C, while tropical salsas, smoothies, and globally inspired dishes continue to trend across social media and foodservice menus.
“Tropicals are one of those categories that does it all,” says Robert Schueller, Director of Public Relations at Melissa’s. “They’re visually striking, culturally relevant, and loaded with health benefits. This program helps retailers make a strong seasonal statement and keep the momentum going with high-performing SKUs and merchandising support that drives results.”
The program is backed by customizable marketing materials, tropical display bins, and data-driven category insights to help retailers build the right assortment for their shoppers.
To bring the program to your stores, contact your Melissa’s sales representative or reach out to Robert Schueller at 800.588.0151 or visit www.melissas.com.
About Melissa’s Produce
Melissa's Produce is a leading distributor of specialty fruits and vegetables, offering a wide variety of unique and exotic items to grocery stores and restaurants across the country. The company is committed to providing the freshest, highest-quality produce while continuously innovating and introducing new and exciting products to consumers. Media contact: Robert Schueller, 800.588.0151, www.melissas.com
