Dante L Galeazzi, CEO/President of the Texas International Produce Association, announced recently he’d been advised by the USDA that “there will be no impact to the [Federal 959] marketing for this season.”
Dante said, “That means from March through July 15, 2022, all STOC regulations, requirements, and enforcement are in place. There will continue to be zero assessment charges for this season. All compliance rules, similar to previous seasons, remain in place.”
He continued, “If you are a handler, please be sure to complete and turn in your Handler Packet paperwork to the association offices as soon as possible. In addition, please contact TCIP @ 956-787-4091 regarding inspector needs for the facility. Our compliance officer will be visiting shippers this week and dropping off Special Purpose forms.”
As the marketing order regs remain, the 2022 TX1015 Sweet Onion Marketing Campaign kicks off its second year with plans to grow consumer brand awareness.
According to a TX1015 release this week, “This program focuses its efforts directly on American consumers to increase awareness of the TX1015 Sweet Onion as the first sweet onion of the year.”
It continued, “Thanks to year one efforts, millions of consumers throughout the U.S. connected to the TX1015 story and growers through the ‘Farmed by Texans, Famous by Families’ campaign that included a variety of public relations and promotional programs.”
Dante was quoted as saying, “Last year was successful beyond our expectations. This year, the campaign will focus even more on getting consumers engaged and excited about the TX1015 Sweet Onion, as well as working with industry partners so consumers can more easily find them at their favorite retailer.”
The major promotion this year is a 10-day celebration of the TX1015 Sweet Onion called TX1015 Restaurant Week. “The campaign plans on partnering with local restaurants in the Rio Grande Valley of Texas to create a TX1015 Sweet Onion-themed drink or dish to inspire their dining guests,” the release said. “Beyond menu inspiration, diners will have the power to vote for their favorite dishes helping all participating restaurants boost online promotions, with the top three restaurants receiving a prize package.”
Dante added, “This is such an exciting opportunity that gets consumers involved and promotes the rich culinary diversity of TX1015 Sweet Onions in South Texas cuisine while also offering a way for people to experience the unique flavor influences of each restaurant.”
In addition to the restaurant promotion, the 2022 campaign will also feature several consumer engagements, including a Texas-themed giveaway with Texas-inspired prize packages. And the STOC will also partner with food bloggers and social media influencers to highlight the versatility and flavor through unique recipes.
Harvest for TX1015 Sweet Onions is underway, and the release reported that “excellent quality and availability are expected through June thanks to optimal growing conditions. Volume is currently increasing, and promotable volumes are expected by March.” For more information & updates on the 2022 program, visit tx1015.com.
