PMA Presents Packaging Award

Hanline Farms, an Ohio-based fresh produce processor and distributor, was awarded a 2010 Impact Award by the Produce Marketing Association for its Fresh & Ready Veggies, a line of cut vegetables in reusable, plastic square containers.

Hanline specified the packaging based on consumer insights, and worked with RGI Inc., a Cincinnati-based marketing agenda, to develop the packaging label and architecture system for the product line. Utilizing its retail marketing expertise, dynamic product photography and a diverse color palette, RGI created labels that differentiate the individual items and make each product’s unique attributes quickly understood by consumers.

“Our main goal for the packaging design was to maximize consumer awareness and encourage trial,” said Tom Browning, Hanline Farms VP of sales and marketing. “And RGI was able to help us achieve our goals with high-quality graphics and clear product visuals that make an impact in the produce department.”

Offering a variety of options, the line ranges from diced and sliced onions to carrot and celery sticks and pico de gallo, stir-fry and fajita mixes. To create a better product for consumers, the packages prohibit odor transfer, are tamper evident, resealable and provide clear visuals of the product. Each package features a recipe to give consumers ideas on how to use the product.

The award is part of a global program to recognize companies who are maximizing on opportunities to sell more fresh produce through innovative packaging. Finalists for the 2010 Impact Awards were evaluated and judged based on excellence in four categories: marketing, food safety, supply chain efficiency/functionality and sustainability.