The domestic U.S. sweet onion season has arrived, and trust us when we say you don’t want to miss the opening act! With a coveted variety kicking off the season each year, consumers are already flocking to the produce department in search of the Georgia-grown delicacy that is the Vidalia® sweet onion. As this highly anticipated promotional window sets the scene for increased category opportunities at retail, several experts in the onion arena have shared their tips and tricks for harnessing demand…
Mike RobertsVice President, Produce Operations, Harps Foods
“Vidalia onions are truly one of a kind, and April is such an exciting time to showcase them in stores. Their sweetness and mild flavor come from the unique sandy soil and climate of Southeast Georgia, and they’re only available for a limited season each year. That exclusivity is something customers really appreciate—they look forward to Vidalia’s as they do to the first strawberries of spring.
If I were talking to produce teams, I’d say the key is to highlight what makes them special. Build displays that tell their story—where they’re from and why they’re different—and pair them with seasonal favorites like grilling veggies or even steaks. Sampling works wonders too. Once customers taste how sweet they are, they’ll grab a few extras for their kitchens.
Vidalias are more than just onions; they’re an experience. Helping customers discover that makes them more than shoppers—they become fans.”
John ShumanPresident and Chief Executive Officer, Shuman Farms
"This variety is a true standout in the produce department, offering unmatched versatility and a naturally sweet flavor that elevates any recipe from grilled favorites to fresh salads. As a cornerstone of spring and summer sales, Vidalias pair perfectly with other seasonal staples, driving excitement and value for shoppers and retailers alike. At Shuman Farms, we are proud to uphold our unwavering commitment to the Vidalia industry by delivering premium-quality sweet onions and supporting its growth and success year after year.”
Sloan LottDirector of Sales, Bland Farms®
“April marks the highly anticipated return of Vidalia Sweet Onions—the gold standard in the sweet onion category, renowned for their uniquely mild, sweet flavor that gives them global recognition. The Georgia Department of Agriculture strictly regulates which onion varieties can bear the Vidalia name, ensuring only the highest quality. At Bland Farms, we’ve spent over four decades selecting the top varieties that produce the flattest, mildest, and sweetest Vidalia onions and perfecting the art of farming them. Because of their delicate flavor, Vidalias can be enjoyed raw in salads, caramelized to bring out their richness, grilled to perfection, or incorporated into your favorite recipes. Their versatility has made them a household staple, so when it comes to merchandising, Vidalia Sweet Onions sell themselves.
Retailers can help their customers easily spot Vidalia Sweet Onions by creating a dedicated display in the produce department, featuring bulk, bagged, and organic options. We have eye-catching display bins and dynamic POS materials that work great. Another way to boost Vidalia Sweet Onion sales is through secondary display bins in the meat and deli sections to encourage impulse purchases and cross-merchandising with Vidalia Brands snacks and condiments—such as Sweet Onion Petals and Vidalia Blossom Kits. Vidalia Brands keeps consumers engaged with the Vidalia beyond fresh onions and outside of the Vidalia season. Our experienced sales managers are always available to assist retailers with merchandising strategies.”
Ryan ConlonSweet Onion Manager, Progressive Produce
“Vidalia onions kick off the domestically grown sweet onion season each year! The low sulfur soil, regular rain, mild winters, and restricted growing regions in Southeast Georgia allow Vidalia onions to be consistently sweet-tasting and marketable. We encourage our retail partners to promote Vidalias in May, as summer approaches, and around the holidays that overlap with the prime Vidalia season, which include Memorial Day, the Fourth of July, and Labor Day.”
Blake DasherChief Executive Officer, G&R Farms
“It is well-known that Vidalias are truly a standout product in the produce aisle, and it all begins with their unique flavor profile—exceptionally sweet, mild, and versatile. Their exclusivity sets them apart; they can only be grown in the sandy soils of Southeast Georgia under specific climatic conditions, guaranteeing their distinctive quality. We pair this natural advantage with our multi-generational commitment to innovation and sustainable farming practices, ensuring each onion delivers on taste, freshness, and integrity. This allows us to meet the needs of today’s consumers while preserving our land for future generations.
When merchandising Vidalias, the key is storytelling. Highlight the authenticity of the Vidalia name and its connection to Georgia’s rich agricultural heritage. In-store signage, recipe ideas, and cross-promotional displays—such as pairing Vidalias with grilling meats or salad kits—can inspire shoppers and boost sales. Promotions tied to seasonal themes, like summer barbecues, work especially well. Engaging with consumers through digital campaigns or social media helps expand reach and reinforce the premium nature of Vidalias. By emphasizing their unique origin, flavor, and versatility, retailers can create a memorable experience for customers while driving demand.” 
