NEW ZEALAND - Retailers are gearing up for an increase in kiwifruit opportunities at the hands of Zespri™. The supplier’s Northern Hemisphere harvest is set to exceed previous sales volumes, expecting to sell around 29 million trays from orchards throughout France, Italy, Greece, Korea, and Japan.

“This season’s harvest will be our biggest yet, and we’re looking forward to providing consumers with more high-quality and great-tasting kiwifruit as we transition from New Zealand-grown fruit to our Northern Hemisphere-grown fruit,” Zespri’s Executive Officer - Northern Hemisphere Supply Nick Kirton said. “The increase in volume also reflects the growth phase we are in, enabled by our year-round investment in the brand and building demand ahead of supply.”

Last season, the company sold 24 million trays—or 88,000 tonnes—of kiwifruit. With the increased volume, this season will support Zespri’s efforts to deliver a 12-month supply in key markets, maintain brand presence and shelf space, and support New Zealand and offshore grower returns, a press release explained.

“Last year was a particularly tough season for our growers in Europe and Asia, with sustained extreme heat and weather events impacting fruit size, yield, and quality,” Kirton added. “It is fantastic to see the orchards rebound this year, with growers producing some great-quality fruit that we will be able to deliver to our customers, helping support improved returns for growers.”

As the release went on to explain, this season’s Green sales volumes are expected to remain steady compared with last year; SunGold™ Kiwifruit sales are projected to increase by 25 percent, reflecting improved growing conditions, increased yields, and new production.

“Our Northern Hemisphere supply program continues to grow and is expected to double in volume by 2030, providing strong returns to the local industry and making positive contributions to our growing communities,” Kirton added.

For more information regarding this uptick in volume, click here.

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Zespri™