Tomatoes: tomatoes have moved from being a seasonal salad item to a year-round centerpiece in the produce section. Steve Phipps of NationFresh believes that supermarkets should carry a variety of tomato products and actively promote each to shoppers

Grocery Headquarters, September, 2004

What are the latest trends in the fresh tomato category?

Steve Phipps: There are a number of trends that are currently driving retail sales. Consumers continue to flock to grape tomatoes, and these products are still increasing in sales. Retailers are continuing to embrace hot house products, which have an excellent shelf life. These products can bring life to the produce section even in the off months. Another important trend is in the shipping and displaying of tomatoes. Display-ready common footprint boxes are becoming the standard for shipping tomato products.

Have there been any substantial changes in the category during the past year?

Yes. With companies such as NationFresh, DiMare Fresh and Del Monte growing in capacity, the tomato category...