NEW ZEALAND - Zespri’s counter-seasonal Zespri Global Supply (ZGS) program is underway, supporting efforts to deliver a 12-month supply to key customers in key markets, to build the Zespri™ brand, and to deliver strong, sustainable grower returns in an increasingly competitive kiwifruit category. This year, Zespri is expecting to sell more than 26 million trays, or more than 93,000 tonnes, of kiwifruit from orchards throughout France, Italy, Greece, Korea, and Japan.

“Our Japan and Korea markets are also set to shift to ZGS SunGold in the coming weeks, with the US and China to follow in December,” said Nick Kirton, Executive Officer – Northern Hemisphere Supply. “For Zespri Green, we expect to sell more than seven million trays from Italy and Greece this season, with sales getting underway as soon as New Zealand sales have wrapped up in the coming weeks.”

Zespri’s Global Supply program was established around 25 years ago and involves working with around 1,500 Zespri growers offshore, explained a press release. In response to increasing demand and intensifying competition, Zespri is currently asking New Zealand kiwifruit growers to support the expansion of its ZGS business via a Producer Vote.

“We’re looking forward to providing customers and consumers with high-quality, great-tasting kiwifruit as we move from New Zealand-grown to Northern Hemisphere-grown fruit Zespri branded kiwifruit,” Kirton added. “ZGS plays a critical role in our efforts to provide customers and consumers with premium Zespri Kiwifruit for all 12 months of the year, helping maintain shelf space until the New Zealand season starts again, and supporting returns for our New Zealand and offshore growers.”

Voting launched on November 11 and is open until midday on December 5, with growers being asked to support the allocation of up to 420 additional hectares of SunGold Kiwifruit per year over six years across Italy, France, Japan, South Korea, and Greece, subject to annual review by the Zespri Board to confirm forecast demand remains ahead of supply and the provision of annual reporting to growers. The proposal has been co-developed with the industry following an extensive engagement process.

An overview of the 2024 Producer Vote is available here. Eligible producers can cast their votes here, with results being announced in mid-December.

Keep up with Zespri's initiatives by turning back to ANUK for our next report.