Pineapples are a tropical fruit, typically grown in Hawaii. Growing pineapples outside of Hawaii is possible, if you are able to properly control the climate and soil conditions. To grow pineapples, you start by cutting off the crown of a fresh pineapple and planting it upside down. The plant needs a light garden soil and plenty of light. Most pineapple plants won't start producing fruit for two or more years.

Pineapples have many health benefits, including being loaded with calcium, potassium, fiber and vitamin C. Consider adding pineapples to your store, whether in the form of fresh pineapples, pineapple juice or other pineapple products such as canned pineapple. If you’re located in the right region, you can even establish your own pineapple farm. Before adding pineapples to your product lineup, consider the following:

1. Do you have a market for fresh pineapples from local or international suppliers?

2. Would you consider adding canned pineapples or other pineapple products to your store?

3. Would your customers be interested in pineapple juice?

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Check out fresh pineapples from pineapple growers and distributors

There are a variety of pineapple growers that distribute to all areas of the United States. Be aware of the pineapple harvesting season for each of the pineapple growers so you can know when to start marketing your pineapples.

I recommend: Maui Pineapple Company prides itself on being the one of the only pineapple farms established and built on Maui. Timco Worldwide started out as a produce distributor specializing in watermelon. The company has since grown and added pineapple, cantaloupe, honeydew, tomato and bell pepper to its produce offerings.

Find distributors of canned pineapples

Although not as delectable as fresh pineapples, canned pineapples do have their merit, often used in desserts or as a garnishment with ham and fish.

I recommend: Del Monte offers several types of canned pineapple, from pineapple chunks to pineapple slices. Find even more suppliers of canned pineapple on FoodServiceDirect.com.

Explore manufacturers of juice from pineapples

Pineapple juice is another popular way of enjoying the health benefits and delicious taste of pineapples. Look for organic varieties from distributors, too.

I recommend: R.W Knudsen offers organic pineapple juice in addition to its many other 100 percent organic juices. Dole pineapple juice is 100 percent juice – not from concentrate.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Order a small quantity of pineapples or pineapple products as your first shipment. You want to be sure customers are interested in the product before you invest too much money into it.
• •  There is plenty of information on how to grow pineapples online to help you learn some tricks of the trade. Also ask your local nursery or local farmer for helpful tips.