Now in Season, Avocados from Peru Take Unique Approach

A Whopping 100 Million Pounds of Avocados to be Imported into the United States this summer from June to September

Washington D.C., June 14, 2016 — The Peruvian Avocado Commission (PAC) jumpstarted its 2016 season by serving a superfood breakfast to the 2000 men and women of the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps on board the famed USS Bataan Navy ship during Fleet Week (May 25th-31st, 2016) in New York City. Following the success of the USS Bataan event, Avocados from Peru (AFP) is taking a fresh and strikingly visual approach to presenting avocados to consumers and the trade. For example the Summer Avocado will showcase a series of recipes entitled “Avocados from Peru in Bloom” as interpreted by famed Dutch food sculptor Colette Dike of Fooddeco using avocados in the shape of roses and ribbons.

AFP is also launching a series of new video recipes featuring highly influential Peruvian chefs Mitsuharu Tsumura of Maido and Alfredo Aramburu of Cala and Popular of Lima, Peru; and Martin Morales of Ceviche SOHO and Old Street and Andina of London. The video recipes showcase Avocados from Peru in classic and contemporary ways. The whole series of video recipes is now viewable on AFP’s YouTube Channel.

Along with new food photography and captivating video recipes, AFP has released another signature video featuring a vibrant look into the Peruvian landscape, culture and avocado growing process entitled “The Land of Avocados from Peru.” These videos and photos are available on the AFP YouTube Channel here and will be shared on all social media platforms.

In another example of AFP’s unique approach to reaching consumers, this month and in July, AFP is the first in the produce category to advertise in Vogue and Vanity Fair with its “Superfood: Beauty from the Inside” retailer tagged ad.

Building on the success of last year’s campaign, AFP’s 2016 marketing program is designed to whet consumers’ appetites for the nutrient-dense superfood and provide retailers with innovative incentives to feature avocados from Peru in the produce aisle. For example, demos at the largest retailers will make use of simple, nutritious recipes and mouth-watering food photography to inspire consumers to create superfood avocado smoothies, bite-size avocado toast and chocolate avocado mousse right in their own kitchens.

“We expect the U.S. consumption of avocados to continue rising at double digits this year,” said Xavier Equihua, CEO and President of PAC. “Hass avocados taste great and are extremely versatile, they can be used in all kinds of simple to more elaborate recipes and more consumers are becoming aware that avocados are a nutrient-dense superfood. In addition to showcasing the beneficial nutrients that occur naturally in Avocados from Peru, the commission plans to partner with other Peruvian superfoods such as asparagus, blueberries, figs, quinoa and pomegranates to create synergistic promotional opportunities.”

All AFP events and promotions will be supported by an aggressive social media campaign. Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest and Twitter will provide the growing AFP fan base with hundreds of reasons to select Avocados from Peru including new recipes, photographs and opportunities to share cool avo-tips.

AFP’s popular website, which is more engaging and informative than ever, also continues to be constantly updated and refreshed. For example, during the season the website will include:

  • A unique visual approach including increased use of video, which will also be shared on Instagram, and on all social channels.
  • New Fooddeco recipes accompanied by “Avocados from Peru in Bloom” images.
  • AFP YouTube Channel: Introduction of video capsules that creatively and artistically tell the story about AFP from the perfect growing conditions of Peru, to the country’s culturally rich heritage to the industry’s deep commitment to social responsibility and sustainability.
  • A downloadable, free cookbook available on the website and on iBooks that has also been made into a full-color, 148 page book packed with great avocado recipes and descriptions of the incredibly rich history of Peruvian cuisine.
  • AVOMAG: the first in the category online magazine focusing on exciting news from the world of avocados.

ADVERTISING SUPPORT

Radio remains an important advertising channel for AFP. The successful thirty-second spot radio campaign that ran in 24 markets in 2015 will continue in 2016 with expanded reach. The customized attention-grabbing spots promote Peru’s fertile farmland and the fruit’s impressive nutritional profile and will be available to all retailers. In select markets, the spots will be supported with value-added promotions. Popular Internet music streaming service, Pandora, will also run the spots.

To further promote the availability of the summer fruit, these fully customized spots will be recorded by local radio personalities to be aired in their respective markets – increasing flexibility and impact. The spots will promote in-store demos in local markets and any special pricing available in-stores. Consumers in select cities may also see buses wrapped as a larger-than-life full-color billboard featuring the picturesque landscape of Peru and of course, delicious Avocados from Peru.

TRADE SUPPORT

AFP is known for making a splash in trade publications and 2016 won’t disappoint. To kick off the season, several trade publications ran special PAC editions in June.

With increased marketing support and a large volume of fresh avocados imported from Peru, AFP is, once again, offering produce managers a greater variety of tools to merchandise the popular summer fruit.

  • Funding for demos taking place during the summer including the weeks leading up to the Fourth of July and Labor Day. In-store demos for customers are already scheduled throughout the summer at participating locations of Costco, Sam’s Club, and Walmart and are available to all retailers.
  • Co-branded newspaper ads and bus wraps.
  • Bins with bold graphics featuring the signature AFP Machu Picchu brand image.
  • Funding for IRC’s.
  • Bus wraps.
  • Customized content for retailers’ social media. For example, Walmart will offer the cookbook “Cooking with Avocados from Peru” as a free download via social media.

CONSUMER TACTICS

In addition to the trade promotions and support, AFP is launching a robust consumer program as well and highlights include:

  • A re-launch of the digital AFP cookbook. In 2015, AFP created a downloadable free cookbook that is available on the website and on iBooks. AFP took things a step further in 2016 with beautiful printed copies that feature full-color, full-page photographs and mouth-watering recipes designed to promote delicious ways to enjoy avocados from Peru.
  • A value-added-promotion with participating radio stations that invites listeners to enter to win a AFP-catered party for their Summer sports viewing party. Radio hosts will deliver avocado themed food to the winners’ home so they can enjoy it while cheering on their favorite team this summer.

The totality of the 2016 initiatives, which complement each other, will continue to strengthen AFP’s position as the peak summer avocado for consumers and retailers across the country.

# # #

ABOUT THE PERUVIAN AVOCADO COMMISSION

The Peruvian Avocado Commission (PAC) is headquartered in Washington, D.C. It was established in 2011 to increase the consumption/demand for Avocados from Peru through advertising, retail promotion and public relations. The PAC’s promotional activities are conducted under the guidelines of the Federal Promotion Program for Hass Avocados, which is under the oversight of the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

 

Media Contact:

Emily Nordee, PR Director
Evans Hardy + Young
805-963-5841 x 218

 

Superfoods for Super Sailors and Marines

Avocados from Peru Kicks Off Fleet Week in New York with a Superfoods Breakfast Honoring the Men and Women of the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps

New York, NY, Friday, May 27, 2016 – In celebration of Fleet Week in New York and Memorial Day Weekend 2016, Avocados from Peru will host a Superfoods Breakfast today to honor the 2,000 men and women of the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps who proudly serve on board the USS Bataan, an 844-foot, 40,358-ton amphibious assault vessel.

As a small token of appreciation, those aboard will enjoy a special breakfast featuring superfoods from Peru. Xavier Equihua, president and CEO of Avocados from Peru, will also present the sailors with fresh Peruvian Avocados so they can continue to enjoy the super fruit after the Memorial Day holiday as well.

To celebrate the 2016 season, Avocados from Peru has created several delicious recipes to make the most of this nutritious breakfast for Fleet Week and beyond. Peruvian Avocados are the perfect ingredient for every meal. They are flavorful, extremely versatile and can be used in a wide variety of recipes. Peruvian Avocados are a nutrient-dense superfood, with 20 vitamins and minerals, and relatively few calories. They are sodium and cholesterol free, and contain monounsaturated fats, the good kind also found in nuts and olive oil.

Peruvian Avocado Superfood Smoothie

Ingredients:
1(13.5-oz.) light or regular coconut milk

1 cup pineapple juice

1 tablespoon fresh lime juice

1 ripe avocado, peeled and pitted

3 tablespoons sugar

1 cup ice cubes

Directions:
Combine all ingredients in a blender, secure with lid and puree until smooth.

Makes 4 cups; serves 4; 1 cup per serving

 

“The Superfoods Breakfast is a historic event and we are pleased to be giving back to the great men and women of the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps,” said Xavier Equihua, president and CEO of Avocados from Peru. “We look forward to many more opportunities where we can feature Avocados from Peru, as they are at the peak of their season this summer, and 100 million pounds of AFP are projected to be imported into the United States between May and September.”

Avocados from Peru is an association that operates under the oversight of the United States government in accordance with the Hass Avocado Promotion, Research and Information Act of 2000.

ABOUT THE PERUVIAN AVOCADO COMMISSION

The Peruvian Avocado Commission (PAC) is headquartered in Washington, D.C. It was established in 2011 to increase the consumption/demand for Avocados from Peru through advertising, retail promotion and public relations. The PAC’s promotional activities are conducted under the guidelines of the Federal Promotion Program for Hass Avocados which is under the oversight of the U.S. Department of Agriculture. For more information about the PAC please visit www.avocadosfromperu.com or email [email protected].

ABOUT FLEET WEEK NEW YORK

For up-to-date information on all Fleet Week events, visit the official Fleet Week New York website at www.fleetweeknewyork.com, “Like” FleetWeekNewYork on Facebook, or “Follow” @FleetWeekNYC on Twitter. Fleet Week New York photos can be viewed on Flickr at www.flickr.com/photos/fwnypao. Join the conversation on social media by using #FleetWeekNYC.

Media Contact:

Jessica Spano
MSLGROUP
646-500-7654

Avocados from Peru Concludes Unprecedented 2015 Campaign Season as Host of 8th Annual World Avocado Congress in Lima

Peruvian Avocado Commission celebrates growing volume in the U.S.

The cover of the Peruvian Avocado Commission’s digital cookbook, released in 2015

Washington D.C., September 14, 2015 — The Peruvian Avocado Commission (PAC) has closed its 2015 season with more than 100 million pounds of fruit imported into the United States over a three-month period. Since it began importing to the U.S., Peru has become an increasingly important supplier of avocados during the summer peak season.

Much of the success of the 2015 season can be attributed to the innovative promotional campaign that combined a number of first-in-category events and programs.

“From coast to coast we worked with top retailers, influencers, and partnered with a number of successful brands to get Avocados from Peru on the minds and plates of consumers across the country,” said Xavier Equihua, CEO and President of PAC. “We are especially grateful for the support of the retail trade who have recognized and promoted the quality of Avocados from Peru.”

One strategic element of the 2015 multi-faceted and multi-media marketing campaign was the support of a social media campaign that was designed to drive engagement and focus on quality content across multiple channels.

The brand’s social media strategy made a strong impression with consumers and had a measurable impact on brand awareness with millions of impressions.

PAC flourished in digital content creation and distribution during the 2015 season with a digital cookbook that is available as a free download in Apple’s iBook Store and on the brand’s Facebook page. The book in hard-copy format will also be available in limited amounts and distributed to attendees of the 8th Annual World Avocado Congress (WAC). Additionally, PAC also released new editions of AVOMAG, the first-in-category online magazine focusing on exciting news from the world of avocados.

Throughout the season, PAC partnered with thoughtfully selected Flavor Ambassadors who embody the brand and messaging to drive strategic PR initiatives with significant impact. Flavor Ambassadors for the 2015 program included Chef Martin Morales, chef-proprietor of London’s Andina and Ceviche restaurants; and Washington D.C.’s Peruvian Brothers, who operate a renowned food truck.

The primary goals of PAC’s 2015 marketing program were to reinforce consumer awareness of the flavor and nutrition found in Avocados from Peru and to support retailers during the peak summer season.

Highlights of the 2015 Season include:

  • A kick-off event on board the USS Cole that was captured in a segment that aired on more than 100 television stations across the country and reached millions of viewers.
  • Co-sponsorship of the Smithsonian Institute’s 49th Annual Folklife Festival featuring custom dishes from the Peruvian Brothers, culinary duo and operators of one of D.C.’s top-rated food trucks, that marked the first time avocados from any country were served on the National Mall.
  • A focused media tour in New York City with top London Chef Martin Morales visiting elite culinary and media establishments.
  • For the first time in the category, PAC sponsored free avocado topping in New York City at Citi Field in honor of National Hot Dog Day.
  • Release of video capsules about the perfect growing conditions of Peru, the country’s culturally rich heritage, and the industry’s deep commitment to social responsibility and sustainability.
  • A robust sampling program of fresh Avocados from Peru in 1,600 Walmart locations and more than half of the nation’s Costco stores during the summer season. In addition, Costco is currently promoting the PAC e-cookbook via their facebook page, which has more than 1 million followers.

To bookend the successful 2015 season, the Peruvian Avocado Commission will host more than 1,000 international attendees at the the 8th Annual WAC in Lima September 13-18. One of the highlights of the congress is a Scientific Program focusing on health and human nutrition and updated information regarding agricultural management, production and commercialization. The Congress will also include research presentations of scientific, marketing and commercial subjects from all parts of the world that influence the future of the industry.

Additionally, this October, PAC will support a brand new pavilion at the Produce Marketing Association taking place in Atlanta and featuring the first 8×16 jumbotron display in the history of the event.

The marketing efforts of PAC reflect the organization’s commitment to supplying the U.S. with top-quality fruit during the summer season while building relationships with consumers and retailers to educate the public about the health benefits of Peruvian Avocados.

To download a free copy of the Avocados from Peru Cookbook, simply click here.

You can also access more images from the Peruvian Avocado Commission on their website.

ABOUT THE PERUVIAN AVOCADO COMMISSION

The Peruvian Avocado Commission (PAC) is headquartered in Washington, D.C. It was established in 2011 to increase the consumption/demand for Avocados from Peru through advertising, retail promotion and public relations. The PAC’s promotional activities are conducted under the guidelines of the Federal Promotion Program for Hass Avocados which is under the oversight of the U.S. Department of Agriculture. For more information about the PAC please visit www.avocadosfromperu.com or email [email protected].

Media Contact:

Emily Nordee, PR Director
805-963-5841 x 218

Peruvian Avocado Commission Celebrates National Hot Dog Day With Free Avocado Topping For Baseball Fans

New York City baseball fans invited to upgrade hot dogs to “avodogs”

Washington D.C. July 24, 2015 – In celebration of National Hot Dog Day on July 23rd, the Peruvian Avocado Commission (PAC) treated New York baseball fans to a complimentary topping of fresh smashed avocados at a local major league ball game.

Although avocado may not be considered as classic a topping as mustard and relish (yet!), adding summer avocados to one of America’s favorite summertime foods proved enormously popular with fans – who devoured more than 600 fresh Peruvian Avocados during the game.

In addition to adding monumental flavor to a perennial favorite, Peruvian avocados also boast nearly 20 important vitamins and minerals and have no sodium or cholesterol.

Served with just a squeeze of lime or combined with other classic hot dog toppings such as onions and tomatoes, freshly sliced or smashed Avocados from Peru make an ideal hot dog topping.

“We look forward to seeing Avocados from Peru become an indispensable part of the all-American tradition of attending a major league baseball game,” said Xavier Equihua, President and CEO of PAC.

Peruvian avocados enjoy a season that, much like baseball, runs from May to September, earning them the nickname of “summer avocados.”

For more ideas of how to top your favorite frank with Peruvian Avocados, head to the PAC website: www.peruvianavocados.com.

Contact:

Sue Kennedy
EvansHardy+Young
302.547.3625

Avocados From Peru and Famed Peruvian Chef Martin Morales Captivate New York’s Culinary Elite

Avocados from Peru celebrated 2015 season in a series of events across New York City that included the first ever avocado-themed dinner at the James Beard House

Washington D.C. July 15, 2015 – In conjunction with Global Brand Ambassador Chef Martin Morales, Avocados from Peru captured the imaginations and taste buds of New York’s top foodies in a series of highly successful events to kick off the summer season.

Considered one of the pioneers of modern Peruvian cuisine, Morales has taken the UK by storm with his Peruvian-inspired London restaurants Ceviche SoHo, Andina, and Ceviche Old St. He also published his first cookbook in 2014, which was promptly named the #1 Cookbook of the Year by The Times of London.

“Chef Martin Morales takes a modern and innovative approach to classic Peruvian cuisine,” said Xavier Equihua, President and CEO of Peruvian Avocado Commission (PAC). “He is the perfect global ambassador for Avocados from Peru, which are so essential to Peru’s cuisine and culture and have been for thousands of years!”

The weeklong schedule of activities started with a live cooking demo on Sunday, June 28 at the 2015 Summer Fancy Food Show, held at the Javitz Center in honor of National Ceviche Day. Attendees had the opportunity to watch and engage as Chef Martin Morales prepared two of his signature dishes: a vegan Ceviche of Artichoke and Avocado and Avocado Quinoa Salad. Over the next few days, some of the country’s top editors had the opportunity to sample Morales’ Avocado Quinoa Salad and Ceviche Andina, both featuring Peruvian Avocados, at a very special Chefs’ Table promotional appearance at the Hearst Corporation and Conde Nast’s new One World Trade Center headquarters.

Between cookbook signings, media appearances and interviews, Chef Morales also prepared a special dinner at the residence of the Peruvian Ambassador to the UN for more than 40 VIP guests including key culinary influencers, media and important government figures at the Peruvian Trade Commission.

Rounding out the week, Chef Morales prepared dinner for a sold-out crowd at the James Beard House, one of New York City’s most prestigious and influential culinary institutions. The dinner, a first in the avocado category, focused on the versatility, nutrition, and monumental flavor of Avocados from Peru, which are largely considered to be the gold standard in markets around the world.

“I love integrating seasonal superfoods into my cuisine and every year I look forward to the summer avocados from Peru,” said Morales, referring to the fruit’s May-September availability. “Avocados are an essential part of my menus and Peruvian cuisine so I am thrilled to be working with the Peruvian Avocado Commission.”

The week of events was an overwhelming success for all involved and served as an important step towards familiarizing American consumers with the cuisine and culture of Peru, which is the #2 exporter of avocados to the United States.

For recipes from Chef Martin Morales and the Peruvian Avocado Commission or for more information, please visit www.avocadosfromperu.com

Contact:

Sue Kennedy
EvansHardy+Young
302.547.3625

Avocados From Peru and the Peruvian Brothers Make Monumental Debut 
on the National Mall in Washington, D.C.

SMITHSONIAN INSTITUTE CELEBRATES PERUVIAN CULTURE
 AT THE 49TH ANNUAL FOLKLIFE FESTIVAL

Washington, D.C., June 24, 2015 – The Smithsonian’s 49th Annual Folklife Festival opened this week and for 10 days the rich Peruvian culture will be celebrated on the National Mall in Washington, D.C.  It’s estimated that more than a million people will visit the national park to experience and learn about the country’s heritage, its people, its art and sample traditional Peruvian fare that is becoming increasingly popular in the United States.

In celebration of this monumental event, Avocados from Peru (AFP) co-sponsored the opening reception of the Folklife Festival and partnered with the popular Peruvian Brothers, whose food trucks were recently voted number one in D.C. by Washingtonian Life magazine. The Brothers developed an exclusive recipe for the event, Peruvian Avocado Quinoa Salad, a light and healthy vegan meal that will be served to thousands of people every day. This marks the first time fresh avocados of any origin have been served on the National Mall with such fanfare and celebration.

“This Festival allows Avocados from Peru to honor the U.S. at one of the largest events in the country during the fruit’s peak summer season,“ explained Xavier Equihua, President and Chief Executive Officer, Peruvian Avocado Commission.  “We are always looking for new and impactful ways to remind consumers that Avocados from Peru are a superfood containing nearly 20 important vitamins and minerals.  Our presence at 2015 Smithsonian Folklife Festival is truly a privilege and once in a lifetime opportunity especially since the event will also serve as the backdrop for the traditional 4th of July festivities on the National Mall – the nation’s most important civic space and home to some of the most iconic monuments and memorials in our country.”

To further promote AFP during the Folklife Festival, AFP has wrapped the Peruvian Brothers’ trucks with beautiful imagery of Peru, fresh, ripe avocados and the eye-catching AFP logo.  Several D.C. city buses are also wrapped in similar artwork and feature the Giant Food’s supermarket logo.
During the Festival, AFP will launch social media campaigns that encourage followers to visit the Peruvian Brothers on the Mall and offer opportunities to win AFP-branded merchandise.

The Festival runs through July 5, 2015 .

For more information about the AFP please visit www.avocadosfromperu.com or email [email protected].

 

Contact:

Sue Kennedy
EvansHardy+Young
302.547.3625

Avocados From Peru and the Peruvian Brothers Make Monumental Debut 
on the National Mall in Washington, D.C.

SMITHSONIAN INSTITUTE CELEBRATES PERUVIAN CULTURE
 AT THE 49TH ANNUAL FOLKLIFE FESTIVAL

Washington, D.C., June 24, 2015 – The Smithsonian’s 49th Annual Folklife Festival opened this week and for 10 days the rich Peruvian culture will be celebrated on the National Mall in Washington, D.C.  It’s estimated that more than a million people will visit the national park to experience and learn about the country’s heritage, its people, its art and sample traditional Peruvian fare that is becoming increasingly popular in the United States.

In celebration of this monumental event, Avocados from Peru (AFP) co-sponsored the opening reception of the Folklife Festival and partnered with the popular Peruvian Brothers, whose food trucks were recently voted number one in D.C. by Washingtonian Life magazine. The Brothers developed an exclusive recipe for the event, Peruvian Avocado Quinoa Salad, a light and healthy vegan meal that will be served to thousands of people every day. This marks the first time fresh avocados of any origin have been served on the National Mall with such fanfare and celebration.

“This Festival allows Avocados from Peru to honor the U.S. at one of the largest events in the country during the fruit’s peak summer season,“ explained Xavier Equihua, President and Chief Executive Officer, Peruvian Avocado Commission.  “We are always looking for new and impactful ways to remind consumers that Avocados from Peru are a superfood containing nearly 20 important vitamins and minerals.  Our presence at 2015 Smithsonian Folklife Festival is truly a privilege and once in a lifetime opportunity especially since the event will also serve as the backdrop for the traditional 4th of July festivities on the National Mall – the nation’s most important civic space and home to some of the most iconic monuments and memorials in our country.”

To further promote AFP during the Folklife Festival, AFP has wrapped the Peruvian Brothers’ trucks with beautiful imagery of Peru, fresh, ripe avocados and the eye-catching AFP logo.  Several D.C. city buses are also wrapped in similar artwork and feature the Giant Food’s supermarket logo.
During the Festival, AFP will launch social media campaigns that encourage followers to visit the Peruvian Brothers on the Mall and offer opportunities to win AFP-branded merchandise.

The Festival runs through July 5, 2015 .

For more information about the AFP please visit www.avocadosfromperu.com or email [email protected].

 

Contact:

Sue Kennedy
EvansHardy+Young
302.547.3625

Peruvian Avocado Commission Kicks Off 2015 Season with Monumental Marketing Campaign

Peruvian Avocado Commission kicks off 2015 season with monumental marketing campaign and a salute to the men and women of the historic U.S.S. Cole.

A RECORD 150 POUND OF AVOCADOS TO BE IMPORTED INTO THE UNITED STATES THIS SUMMER.

Washington D.C., June 1, 2015 — The Peruvian Avocado Commission (PAC) kicked off the 2015 season by serving a super food breakfast to the men and women on board the famed USS Cole Navy ship during Fleet Week in Ft. Lauderdale, Fla. This salute-the-troops event was a first in the history of the avocado category and jump starts a powerful five-month long marketing campaign that includes high-profile events and sponsorships, increased trade and consumer advertising, an expanded menu of retailer support programs and more opportunities to engage directly with consumers through social media initiatives.

Avocados from Peru (AFP) are the only avocados that will be at the peak of their season this summer, and a record 150 million pounds of AFP are projected to be imported into the United States between May and September.

“In the past three years, Avocados from Peru exports to the United States have tripled from 50 million to 150 million pounds making Peru one of the largest suppliers of avocados during the summer months,” stated Enrique Camet, PAC Board Chairman, “This growth is especially significant because the Avocados from Peru season is much shorter than any other major avocado growing region in the world.  Additionally, Peru is also a consistent supplier of large size fruit because of its climate conditions.”

Building on the success of last year’s campaign, AFP’s 2015 marketing program is designed to whet consumer’s appetites for the nutrient-dense super food and provide retailers with innovative incentives to prominently showcase AFP in the produce aisle.  “The 2015 campaign involves a variety of events and promotions similar to the breakfast served to the sailors on board the USS Cole that are firsts for the avocado category,” explained Xavier Equihua, President and Chief Executive Officer, PAC. “We want to reach consumers through a variety of media channels, constantly reminding them to make Avocados from Peru a part of their daily diet.”

The breakfast event on board the USS Cole will be featured as a special July 4th segment on the nationally syndicated Mr. Food Test Kitchen show on July 1.  The segment will air on more than 100 television stations across the country and reach millions of viewers.

Leading up to the July 4th holiday, one of the highest avocado consumption periods during the year, AFP will host a series of high-profile media events on the east coast.  Internationally renowned chef, Martin Morales, the author of the award-winning cookbook Ceviche: Peruvian Kitchen, which was awarded the London Sunday Times Cookbook of the Year, and the founder and Managing Director of Ceviche Soho, Old Street, and Andina, three of London’s best new restaurants, will help generate excitement for AFP in New York City to help ramp up the season.  Chef Morales will act as the global ambassador for AFP at the Fancy Food Show; host a private dinner at the Peruvian Ambassador to the United Nation’s residence for top media and key customers; be featured as a guest chef at the renowned James Beard Foundation House, and conduct a special cooking demo at Condé Nast – the prominent media company and producer of high quality content.

In mid-June, the 48th Annual Smithsonian Folklife Festival in Washington D.C. will be co-sponsored by the Republic of Peru’s Ministry of Foreign Trade and Tourism. During the two-week long festival, which is expected to attract up to 1.1 million visitors, AFP will partner with the popular Peruvian Brothers, one of the official food suppliers of the event. Throughout the summer the Peruvian Brothers’ food trucks will be wrapped in beautiful images of Peru and fresh, ripe avocados and they’ve added AFP’s signature Quinoa and Avocado Salad to the menu. The event allows AFP to honor the U.S. at one of the largest events in the country.

All AFP events and promotions will be supported by an aggressive social media campaign. Contests, promotions, partnerships with high-profile bloggers and live chats will engage consumers and encourage them to try the fruit in new and different ways. Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest and Twitter will provide the growing AFP fan base with hundreds of reasons to select AFP, including new recipes and photographs and opportunities to share cool avo-tips.  Consumers will also have a chance to enter the “Summer Avocados Sweepstakes” and win a once-in-a-lifetime trip to Peru.

AFP’s popular website, which is more engaging and informative than ever, is designed to incentivize consumers to add more avocados to their diet:

  • Unique visual approach, a first in the category, including increased use of video, which will also be shared on Instagram, Vine and on all social channels.
  • New photos of mouth-watering dishes and pictures of life in Peru.
  • Introduction of video capsules that creatively and artistically tell the story about AFP from the perfect growing conditions of Peru, to the country’s culturally rich heritage to the industry’s deep commitment to social responsibility and sustainability.
  • Promotion section on the homepage that highlights AFP social media initiatives, videos and special topics.
  • A downloadable free cookbook available on the website and on iBooks, promoted with a dramatic ‘movie-trailer’ style video on all AFP’s social channels.
  • AVOMAG: the launch of the first in the category online magazine focusing on exciting news from the world of avocados.

ADVERTISING SUPPORT
Radio remains an important advertising channel for AFP. The successful thirty-second spot radio campaign that ran in 24 markets in 2014 will continue in 2015 with expanded reach and also air in select Spanish-language markets. The customized attention-grabbing spots that promote Peru’s fertile farmland and the fruit’s impressive nutritional profile will be available to all retailers in both English and Spanish.  In select markets the spots will be supported with value-added promotions.  Popular Internet music streaming service, Pandora, will run the spots.

To further promote the availability of the summer fruit, consumers in Washington, D.C., Philadelphia, Boston and visitors to the Aspen Food & Wine Classic may see their city buses wrapped as a larger-than-life full-color billboard featuring the picturesque landscape of Peru and of course, delicious Avocados from Peru.

AFP is known for making a splash in trade publications and 2015 won’t disappoint. To kick off the season, several trade publications will run special AFP editions in June. Print and online advertising has expanded to include several more media vehicles and the number of insertions will increase.

With increased marketing support and a large volume of fresh avocados imported from Peru, AFP has expanded its retailer program and is offering produce managers a greater variety of tools to merchandise the popular summer fruit.

  • Co-branded newspaper ads and bus wraps.
  • Bins with bold graphics featuring the signature AFP Machu Picchu brand image.
  • New RPC wraps with a joint “Monumental Flavor” and “Summer Avocado” slogans and new recipe ideas that go beyond guacamole.
  • Sesame Street “Eat Brighter” Campaign bins for retailers wanting to reach a younger demographic.
  • Branded PLU stickers and mesh bags.
  • Funding for IRC’s.
  • Funding for demos taking place during the summer including the weeks leading up to the Fourth of July and Labor Day.
  • New content for social media.

AFP will be engaging food service operators for the first time through a unique summer promotion with Restaurant Associates, one of the nation’s premier hospitality companies, operating over 100 prestigious locations on the East Coast and beyond.  During July and August, all Restaurant Associates’ high profile corporate locations such as New York Times, Morgan Stanley, HBO, and the NBA, will feature fresh menu offerings from AFP.  Restaurant Associates chefs will be encouraged to create innovative avocado-centric recipes during the promotion along with showcasing specialty Avocados from Peru recipes. Each corporate location will receive AFP signage, recipe cards, nutritional information and colorful posters.

The totality of all the 2015 initiatives, each complementing each other, will continue to strengthen AFP’s position as the peak summer avocado for consumers and retailers across the country.

ABOUT THE PERUVIAN AVOCADO COMMISSION

The Peruvian Avocado Commission (PAC) is headquartered in Washington, D.C. It was established in 2011 to increase the consumption/demand for Avocados from Peru through advertising, retail promotion and public relations. The PAC’s promotional activities are conducted under the guidelines of the Federal Promotion Program for Hass Avocados which is under the oversight of the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

For more information about the PAC please visit www.avocadosfromperu.com or email [email protected].

Contact:
Sue Kennedy
EvansHardy+Young
302.547.3625
[email protected]

Avocados from Peru Closes Out Monumental Season

Washington D.C., October 15, 2014 — As the Peruvian Avocado Commission (PAC) closes out a monumental 2014 season, it’s not resting on its laurels. The second largest avocado importer in the United States is preparing for 2015, which is projected to be its biggest year ever in terms of amount of fruit imported. More customized retailer programs, impactful new advertising, attention-generating public relations campaigns, and a solid social media program are under development and will be ready to launch when the first fruit arrives next spring.

“The United States is an extremely important market for Avocados from Peru,” explained Enrique Camet, Board Chairman of PAC. “High quality, large fruit, motivated retailers, and a strong, strategic marketing program all contributed to establishing Avocados from Peru as the second largest importer of avocados in the United States.”

PAC’s 2014 marketing program had two primary goals – build long-term retailer support and make consumers aware that Avocados from Peru are available all summer long.

“We had four short months to sell 145 million pounds of avocados,” stated Xavier Equihua, Chief Executive Officer of PAC. “We did just that working side-by-side with our retail partners to develop tailored programs and by implementing engaging public relations and social media programs that provided consumers with many compelling reasons to eat more avocados.”

Highlights of the 2014 season include:

  • Tailored Retail Partner Programs – PAC supported its retail partners with a menu of marketing opportunities including:
    • Unique to the category radio advertising campaign that integrated the retailer directly into the script, strengthening the importance of the partnership and underscoring the availability of the fruit. Additionally, short, five-second spots included retailer names whenever possible and on-air promotions were created for stations expressing interest.
    • New, eye-catching Point-of-Sale materials including bins and reusable plastic crate wraps were available.
    • Impactful trade advertising that ran all season long in print and digital publications.
    • Support for in-store demos.
  • Refreshed Website – To support its biggest season ever, PAC refreshed its website – www.avocadosfromperu.com – and added cutting edge technology that was new to the avocado category.
  • Social Media – PAC Firmly established itself in cyberspace by creating FacebookInstagram, and Pinterest accounts. Specific promotions were created for each of these channels to encourage followers and promote engagement.

All the programs executed in 2014 have helped strengthen the foundation for the future of Avocados from Peru in the United States. The 2015 marketing program will build on the successes of this first milestone year and will set new precedents for the avocado category. Look for more co-branded POS displays and in-store demos, enhanced consumer promotions, expanded radio support and promotions, new social media initiatives, continued website growth, expansion into more Latino markets, and bigger shipments to more markets to meet growing consumer demand.

 

About the Peruvian Avocado Commission

The Peruvian Avocado Commission (PAC) is headquartered in Washington, D.C. It was established in 2011 to increase the consumption/demand for Avocados from Peru through advertising, retail promotion and public relations. The PAC’s promotional activities are conducted under the guidelines of the Federal Promotion Program for Hass Avocados which is under the oversight of the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

For more information about the PAC please visit www.avocadosfromperu.com or email [email protected].

 

Contact:

Sue Kennedy
EvansHardy+Young
302.547.3625

Avocados from Peru Rounds Out Season with Robust Recipe Collection

Washington D.C., September 30, 2014 — The end of the Avocados from Peru season is fast approaching, but the website will remain an active resource for folks who cannot resist the silky fruit from Peru. Visit Avocados from Peru’s ever expanding and engaging website – www.avocadosfromperu.com – for a plethora of unique recipes that use avocados in new and delicious ways.

“Our recipes represent a sampling of flavors from around the world. Sourced from well-known chefs like Ricardo Zarate of Los Angeles, CA and Martin Morales of London, UK, to popular food bloggers and contest winners, our recipes reflect Americans’ growing taste for fresh avocados and recipes that go above and beyond the tried and true guacamole,” explained Xavier Equihua, Chief Executive Officer of the Peruvian Avocado Commission.

The recipes, located on PAC’s uniquely designed website, visually burst before your eyes introducing visitors to a new taste experience. All who visit the website are able to view the recipes in a cookbook-style format, a feature novel to the avocado industry.

“We want consumers to know that avocados can be paired with just about any food and prepared a thousand different ways,” continued Equihua. “Beautiful photography housed in an easy-to-use format make the recipes even more enticing.”

The recipes featured are as varied as their sources and span all day parts, encouraging avocado lovers to incorporate the nutrient-dense fruit into their breakfast, lunch, dinner or afternoon snack.

Recipe Contest

PAC recently sponsored a month-long recipe contest on the James Beard award-winning website, Food 52Avocado Sea Salt Shake was a favorite among the site’s food-focused membership. This unique recipe features avocados in a totally new and delicious light.

Avocado Sea Salt Shake

Serves: 2

Ingredients:

– 1 1/2 small Hass avocados, or 1 large

– 1 tablespoon lemon or lime juice

– 1 cup coconut ice cream

– 3/4 to 1 cups milk (or coconut milk beverage)

– 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon salt

– Simple syrup or agave to taste

Directions: 

1. Cut avocado(s) in half and remove the pit.

2. Scoop the meat into a blender.

3. Add the lemon juice, ice cream, milk, and salt.

4. Blend until smooth. Taste, add more salt or sweetener, and briefly blend.

5. Divide into 2 glasses, sprinkle with a tiny pinch of salt, place a straw in each glass, and serve.

 

Celebrity Chefs

One of the greatest features of PAC’s website is its unique collection of recipes, which are amassed from a variety of sources. Award-winning Peruvian chef, Ricardo Zarate, owner of four restaurants in the greater Los Angeles area, Mo-Chica, Picca, Paiche, and Blue Tavern, has three recipes using the fruit from his homeland prominently featured on PAC’s new website.

Chef Martin Morales is the owner of the popular restaurant Ceviche, located in London’s chic SOHO neighborhood, and Andina, in London’s city center. His Ensalada de Quinoa features thinly sliced avocados topped with a flavorful quinoa salad mixed with cilantro, limo chile, and diced tomatoes and onion. It’s easy to make, delicious, and is certain to be bookmarked as a favorite.

mmorales Peruvian chef Martin Morales, who owns two restaurants in London, Andina and Ceviche, adds Avocados from Peru to his menus as soon as the fruit is available.[/caption]

Bloggers

Popular blogger, Marla Meridith of Family Fresh Cooking, who boasts over 131,000 Facebook followers (and over 594,000 Pinterest followers), has been a champion of Avocados from Peru all summer long. Avocado recipes she created in her kitchen were prominently posted on all her social media sites and seen by hundreds of thousands of people actively looking for fresh, nutritious dishes to feed their families. In addition to creating recipes that nourish your body, she demonstrated a different use for avocados — a facial mask that nourishes your body from the outside!

Recipes

Other popular recipes featured on PAC’s website include Chupe de Camarones, which is also one of the most “liked” recipes on the Avocados from Peru Facebook page. This hearty soup skillfully blends the distinct flavors of coconut and pumpkin with the textures of potatoes and corn to create a satisfying appetizer or filling lunch. Another gem is Gnocchi with Hass Avocado Pesto, an excellent choice for a Meatless Monday!

Visit the site often for new recipes, tips, and news of Avocados from Peru’s arrival in 2015.

About the Peruvian Avocado Commission

The Peruvian Avocado Commission (PAC) is headquartered in Washington, D.C. It was established in 2011 to increase the consumption/demand for Avocados from Peru through advertising, retail promotion and public relations. The PAC’s promotional activities are conducted under the guidelines of the Federal Promotion Program for Hass Avocados which is under the oversight of the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

For more information about the PAC please visit www.avocadosfromperu.com or email [email protected].

 

Contact:

Sue Kennedy
EvansHardy+Young
302.547.3625