With December now in full swing, retailers are putting their most advantageous seasonal strategies in play as they look to drive sales for the final push of 2024. With a variety of high-demand offerings padding its portfolio, I turned to Carr Valley Cheese for insight on maximizing sales this season, and Elle Williams, Director of Sales and Brand Development, did not disappoint.
What products within Carr Valley’s portfolio should retailers spotlight now through the winter holidays?
Our traditional Cheddar line is very popular during the holiday season. We offer fresh cheese curds all the way to 16 Year Old Cheddar, which is an easy way for retailers to offer master-crafted favorites to all customers. Additionally, at the beginning of December, we released our bandaged wrapped seasonal daisy, Winter Solstice, which is made with fresh milk from mid- to late November from our local farms. This seasonal line is a great way to reflect what’s happening with the terroir in real time here in Wisconsin. Lastly, we offer our famous Cheddar Gems, which is a classic style of bandage-wrapped Cheddar made in small, 3 lb forms. This product has been made at our La Valle plant for almost 40 years, and it used to be a popular addition to supper club salad bars across the country.
Why are these great offerings to promote during this time?
Consumers want cozy, comforting flavors—and these varieties bring in that nostalgia that we’re all searching for during the holidays. Plus, all of these flavors are approachable for every guest—from nieces, nephews, foodie cousins, and your picky aunt! But don’t worry, if we have customers and retailers searching for an elevated dining experience, we offer a wonderful selection of artisan cheeses with sheep, goat, and cow milk that would also fit the bill. I personally love bringing out our Port wine-soaked cheeses, Boozin Ewe and Boozin Billy, for my holiday parties.
Will Carr Valley offer retail/merchandising support this winter season?
Of course! The nice thing about having a small, dedicated team is that we can provide uniquely tailored POS for every retailer. Additionally, we have lots of in-house POS and customer giveaway items, like buttons, that retailers have access to. Reach out to us!
What cross-merchandising tips do you have to offer retailers this season?
I still believe the quick bite is the most enticing way to get through to the busy holiday shoppers! Grilled Bread Cheese® topped with a hearty jam, Glacier Penta Crème with a nice green olive, or Apple Smoked Cheddar with a warming Old Fashioned. Easy and quick ways for consumers to impress their guests.
What elevates Carr Valley’s portfolio in the cheese case?
We continue to strive to be the first to offer unique varieties, and with our 70+ combined years of cheesemaking experience on staff, we have the expertise to back up these American Originals.
Carr Valley has been handcrafting award-winning cheeses for over 140 years, and we’re still using old-world techniques. We’d love to help retailers with any special products going into 2025! Please stop by and say hi at the Winter Fancy Food Show, booth #931.
Harness this powerful portfolio and make the most of this year’s seasonal merchandising strategies!
