California Table Grape Commission Adds to Marketing Team
The California Table Grape Commission welcomes Lisa Massie and Alexandra Merritt to the marketing team.
As the director of international marketing for Asia, Massie will lead the marketing work in targeted export markets throughout Asia, focusing on building demand for California table grapes through the work of multiple in-country promotion teams. Massie served as the Global Marketing and Communications Specialist at Trillium Flow Technologies and brings a background in account management, business analysis, communications, and export promotion with her to the commission.
As director of global marketing, Merritt will manage retail accounts in the U.S. and will lead the marketing work in the key export markets of Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. Additionally, Merritt will be responsible for directing category management research. Merritt joins the commission from Root Creative Marketing where she served as Account Director and was responsible for implementing marketing campaigns for a diverse set of agriculture, food product, and lifestyle product clients.
“Both Lisa and Alexandra bring talent, drive, heart, and extensive backgrounds in account management and analysis to the commission marketing team,” said Ian LeMay, incoming California Table Grape Commission president.
“We are very pleased to welcome them to the team and look forward to the many contributions they will each make in the years to come,” said LeMay.
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PMMI Donates $200K to Red Cross For LA Fires
PMMI, The Association for Packaging and Processing Technologies, announced that the board of directors has approved a $200,000 donation to the American Red Cross to assist with wildfire relief efforts in southern California. This contribution aims to provide critical aid to communities devastated by the recent wildfires.
Southern California has been severely affected by these wildfires, displacing thousands of residents and causing significant damage to homes and businesses. PMMI, with a strong membership presence in the hardest-hit areas, recognizes the immense challenges faced by these communities.
“Our hearts go out to everyone affected by these fires. PMMI wanted to make a meaningful contribution to support those impacted, especially our members in southern California,” says Jim Pittas, president and CEO, PMMI. “Thanks to our strong financial position, bolstered by the success of our PACK EXPO portfolio of trade shows, the Board recognizes we can provide substantial support at this critical time.”
The donation will be directed toward the American Red Cross disaster relief fund, helping to provide essentials such as shelter, food, medical aid, and support services to those in need.
“Many of our member companies and their employees are deeply impacted by this tragedy. As part of the PMMI family, we stand by them during this incredibly difficult time,” adds Pittas. “We encourage anyone who can contribute to this relief effort to do so.”
PMMI’s commitment goes beyond financial aid. The association is actively working to support its members as they navigate the aftermath of these wildfires, ensuring they have the resources and assistance needed to recover and rebuild.
You can make a difference by donating to the American Red Cross disaster relief fund. Every contribution helps bring hope and aid to those affected by disasters like these wildfires.
Visit the American Red Cross website to make a difference today.
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SNAC: Snack Food Sales Rise 14.9% During Super Bowl Week 2024
Snack food sales jumped to $670 million during Super Bowl Week 2024, according to new data from Circana, commissioned by SNAC International (SNAC), the leading international trade association for the snack industry representing over 400 companies worldwide.
The data shows that Americans bought 107 million pounds of snacks the week leading up to Super Bowl 2024. To put that into perspective, a Lombardi trophy weighs about 7 pounds, which totals over 15 million Vince Lombardi trophies
“The week leading up to the Super Bowl is the most significant benchmark for the snack food industry,” stated Christine Cochran, President and CEO of SNAC. “The brands that stand out during this pivotal week are positioning themselves for big things in the year ahead.” ahead.”
The snack data compared dollar sales from Super Bowl Week 2024 (week ending 2/11/24) to sales from the prior week (week ending 2/4/24). Notably, the most significant sales spikes were in the categories of tortilla/tostada chips and corn snacks.
The sales numbers for Super Bowl Week 2024 in dollar value, percent increase from the prior week, and pounds sold are as follows:
- Tortilla/tostada chips sold 34 million pounds for $172.2M (+31.7%)
- Potato chips sold 28.9 million pounds for $180.6M (+12.5%)
- Cheese snacks sold 7.8 million pounds for $58.6M (+11%)
- Corn snacks sold 6.2 million pounds for $43.2M (14.4%)
- Pretzels sold 9.6 million pounds for $42.6M (+8.2)
For more information about snack sales and SNAC International, please visit https://snacintl.org/.
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