iBanana by Alexander
Choosing banana stages 3–5: a practical guide
Colour stage helps you plan sales. Choose it based on delivery day, sales rate and whether you need a mixed-stage load.
Stage describes peel colour and helps you estimate the time available for sale, alongside storage conditions and handling. Choosing an appropriate stage makes stock management easier and helps reduce discrepancies at delivery.
Quick guide
- Stage 3: greener, with more time before sale, when selling starts later
- Stage 3.5: a balance of green and yellow, for steady sales
- Stage 4: more yellow, for sale soon in stores with a fast sales rate
- Stage 5: mostly yellow, for immediate sale, promotions and very fast turnover
How to choose (3 questions)
- When do you receive the fruit, and when does selling start?
- How quickly does your stock sell in a normal week and during a promotion?
- Do you need pallets at different stages in one truck, for sales on the delivery day and the following days?
Mixed-stage loads and over-ripening
A single stage does not suit every buyer. A load with pallets at different, agreed stages can accommodate different sales rates and help reduce the risk of stock becoming over-ripe.
Practical takeaway
Choose a delivery day and compare two stages under the same conditions. Track sales and the condition of the fruit on the shelf to see which stage suits your schedule.