Sun World International Expands Footprint in Australia With Addition of Fresh Produce Group of Australia; Garth Swinburn and Robert Nugan Discuss
PALM DESERT, CA - As fresh produce companies continue to grow, many are finding sweet success on the international stage—just take a look at Sun World International. With transformation in the cards in recent years, the global fruit genetics and licensing company, has welcomed Fresh Produce Group of Australia (FPG) as a licensed grape grower/marketer in the country.
“It’s a pleasure to announce this exciting expansion in Australia,” said Garth Swinburn, Sun World’s Vice President of Licensing. “It has been a substantial period since our establishment in Australia nearly 20 years ago. This decision is an important move for our company as we position to meet broader market and consumer demand for our varieties in the Australia region.”
With a growing international strategy marking this move, Sun World is expanding its roster of table grape marketers in Australia. FPG joins Sun World licensees Costa Group, Perfection Fresh/Fruit Master, and Fruitico.
Under this new agreement, the company is granted rights to distribute fruit from existing and new varieties developed by Sun World, marketed under the company’s varietal brands such as AUTUMNCRISP®, MIDNIGHT BEAUTY®, SABLE SEEDLESS®, ADORA SEEDLESS®, SCARLOTTA SEEDLESS®, and SONERA SEEDLESS®, according to a press release.
“Table grapes are FPG’s largest fruit category. Being able to source and grow Sun World’s leading genetics is critical to meeting our goals. FPG looks forward to building an integrated and lasting partnership with Sun World,” said Robert Nugan, FPG Executive Chairman. According to the company, FPG has grown to be recognized as one of Australia’s most innovative produce suppliers, delivering great fruit to meet consumer demand.
Australia is a key region in the category’s growth, as Sun World notes, with both a robust domestic market and its proximity to Asian markets. In addition, the expansion buoys up Sun World’s proprietary varieties, such as those bred by the company at its Center for Innovation in California.
“I’m excited to welcome this impressive organization to the global Sun World community,” continued Swinburn. “We are truly confident that FPG will further add to the prosperity of our growers in Australia and the broader industry.”
Making moves on the international stage is one way that Sun World is staying at the top of its game, and we will continue to bring you more as 2021 reveals the numerous opportunities.
