DIFFERENCES IN CONSUMERS OF FRESH TOMATOES AT FOUR RETAIL VENUES

This paper presents the results of surveys of fresh tomato consumers conducted in 1990 in four New Jersey produce venues: a supermarket, a farmers' market, an at-the-farm store, and two roadside stands. The surveys were conducted through face-to-face interviews. Consumers' preferences, purchasing patterns, attitudes and demographics were examined. Results of the surveys suggest that supermarkets should emphasize price and convenience in marketing fresh tomatoes; whereas farmers' markets, at-the-farm stores, and roadside stands should emphasize taste and freshness.