According to an IRI product affinity survey, potatoes are America’s Favorite Vegetable and a mainstay in many homes. They contribute significantly to the construction of grocery baskets, averaging USD90.50 when they are included against USD47.47 when they are not.

Additionally, supermarkets can increase basket sales by emphasizing potatoes in their summer marketing, as 80% of Americans grab them at the grocery store every week.

Since potatoes make up more than 10% of all vegetable sales, the Independent Grocers Alliance (IGA) and Potatoes USA have teamed up to support independent grocers in taking advantage of the crop mania.

Through integrated programs and best-in-class data and assets, Potatoes USA, the national marketing and promotion board representing American potato growers and importers, is enabling IGA members to increase their market share and store sales.

“As our Red Oval Partnership grows, we are working to build a world-class group of organizations dedicated to growing the fresh category for shoppers. Potatoes USA exemplifies IGA’s dedication to the IGA brand promise of Local Equals Fresh through its support of the potato category. We are excited to welcome Potatoes USA,” IGA VP Brand Development, Michael La Kier, said.

Potatoes USA may test and implement specific initiatives to elevate the potato category and drive demand and sales in retail grocery outlets by collaborating with independent grocers within the Alliance. To better serve the needs and preferences of their customers, independent grocers will also have access to best-in-class information, shopper data, and best practices for potato merchandising.