Sunkist Growers has launched a limited-edition packaging program to mark the upcoming Lunar New Year, introducing its “Year of the Horse” cartons and display bins. The initiative is part of Sunkist’s annual effort to align citrus marketing with cultural traditions associated with the holiday, which will be celebrated on February 17 this year.
The new packaging includes custom-illustrated 10-pound cartons for Sunkist Navel and Cara Cara oranges, as well as themed display bins that can hold a variety of citrus products. Citrus fruits are traditionally given during Lunar New Year celebrations as symbols of abundance and good wishes, making them popular choices for gifting and festive displays.
Cassie Howard, Senior Director of Category Management and Marketing at Sunkist Growers, stated: “As Lunar New Year coincides with the start of the calendar year, retailers have an opportunity to connect cultural tradition with how shoppers are thinking about food, family, and fresh routines. Our Year of the Horse program is designed to make that easy—combining eye-catching packaging with flexible merchandising options that help elevate citrus during an important seasonal moment.”
The program also enables retailers to expand their product offerings by using open display bins suitable for various types of citrus. Lemons remain in demand due to consumer interest in home cooking and versatile ingredients. Larger fruits like pummelos add visual appeal for themed displays during promotional periods.
Recent sales trends indicate that visually prominent citrus varieties such as pummelos see increased shopper engagement when featured in-store around key holidays like Lunar New Year.
Howard added: “The strength of Lunar New Year merchandising is its flexibility. Whether retailers choose to anchor their displays with limited-edition orange cartons, build out larger themed bins, or complement the set with everyday citrus staples like lemons, these programs are designed to support both celebration and repeat purchase.”
Retailers interested in participating can contact their local Sunkist sales representative for more information about obtaining the new packaging and display materials.
