|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Same quality, different packaging
Garden seed at your Co-op may carry a new name, but reputation remains
Story by Hannah Lewis |
2/17/2021 |
As you shop for garden supplies at your local Co-op this spring, the seed section may look a little different. The Co-op Garden Seed that is always popular will be carrying a new name in updated packaging. But rest assured, the seed and the quality are the same that customers have come to expect from Co-op.
The new packaging will carry the name Faithway Alliance, the name of the joint venture formed Aug. 1, 2020, between Tennessee Farmers Cooperative (TFC), Alabama Farmers Cooperative (AFC), Alliance Farm and Ranch, and Faithway Feeds.
Once the merger of Faithway Alliance was complete, several Co-op products took on a new name and updated labeling.
“The garden seed from Faithway Alliance is the exact same seed as when it carried a Co-op label,” says Mark Morton, director of procurement at Faithway Alliance. “We are buying from the same suppliers as Co-op did.”
Because of the merger, the marketing footprint of the products expanded to encompass much of the Southeast. The product managers believed it best to use a package that was welcoming to all gardening enthusiasts.
“The seeds are the same top of the line product and are packaged in the same
sizes,” says Morton. “We don’t anticipate any decreases in quality of the entire seed line.”
Seed species include varieties of beans, cucumbers, tomatoes, watermelons, corn, turnips, beets, radishes, carrots, sunflowers, and other typical garden seeds. The Faithway Alliance seed also offers a flower variety called “Southeastern Mix” composed of flowers that grow well in the Southeastern U.S.
For those who prefer to grow from seedlings, Faithway Alliance still plans to provide Bonnie Plants vegetables and flowers.
“We are adding more items, new lines, and products that haven’t been seen before,” says Morton. “Making sure that customers are able to consistently get their favorite brands and products — but hopefully with a better price — is our priority.”
Due in large part to the COVID pandemic, the demand for gardening supplies sky-rocketed in 2020 and is expected to be similar this year. Faithway Alliance is prepared and ready to provide products to the Co-op stores.
“The Co-op is the best place to go for gardening supplies and knowledgeable, helpful staff,” says Morton. “You can find everything you need there — seed, soil, fertilizer, tools, and containers. It’s a one-stop shop for all things gardening. A first-time gardener with no supplies can visit a Co-op and come out with every tool and product needed to start a successful garden.”
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|