From Exclusive Niche Product to Supplying in Bulk

What is generally preferred; supplying fresh produce in bulk or reaching specific markets with exclusive products? Both options offer advantages, like an extensive market through bulk supply or a leading position through unique products. What if we combine both options? So, we can offer exceptional products in bulk to reach a larger audience? Then, we have created a win-win situation!

Reaching more consumers, through increased volume

Sometimes, the word ‘bulk’ has a slightly negative connotation. Bulk is seen as uninspiring, of mediocre quality and cheap. Prominent thinks differently, as more volume also means an extensive reach, and this creates opportunities! When developing our products, we keep our eye on the consumer. With the opinion of our taste panel [hyperlink to previous AHA] in the back of their minds, our growers keep creating new products. But why make these products with unique characteristics exclusively available to a small target group, when the whole of Europe can enjoy our tasty vine tomatoes?

Strategic supply chain co-operations make us stronger

By promoting co-operations within Dutch fresh produce supply chains, we can take giant leaps. Sharing knowledge and experience can boost the production and supply of extraordinary products. The article ‘Strategic Co-operations in Fresh Produce Supply Chains’, published in April 2019 by EFMI Business School, states:

In the future, the amount of fresh produce supply chains focused on concepts with added value for the consumer will increase. This will partly take place within strategic supply chain co-operations. Trust is crucial within strategic supply chain co-operations. Elements such as innovative concepts that set you apart and insight in consumer needs are also important.

Strategic chain co-operations can boost innovation and optimise supply chains. Important advantages of strategic supply chain co-operations are:

• Competences of individual supply chain partners are complemented
• Individual specialisms are linked
• Synchronisation takes place throughout the supply chain
• Predictability and pace of the supply chain are increased

Why not join forces at an earlier stage and introduce exceptional products based on shared input? More knowledge, more means, more volume, more risk spreading and more marketing lead to more exposure and eventually to more profit and more growth potential in the market.

DOOR Partners / Prominent loves sharing its knowledge with others. Curious to know how? We are keen to tell you more. Do not hesitate to get in touch with Wim van den Berg of DOOR Partners / Prominent: w.vandenberg@doorpartners.nl or +31 (0)6 5756 4346.

Prominent is a brand of the Grower Cooperative DOOR U.A. This organisation is responsible for the sales, marketing and quality control of the product.